Regulatory approaches to managing artificial intelligence systems in autonomous vehicles in Australia

Abstract

Abstract This article explores the emergence of Automated Vehicles (AVs) in Australia. It will investigate the legal and regulatory terrain. International and domestic approaches are examined to determine potential responses. The regulatory issues emerge partly due to the varied nature of artificial intelligence systems and processes that enable AVs to function. The variations may be due to the chosen domain model, software development processes, or the development of biases that may occur during code development for the underlying artificial intelligence system. Such variations can create difficulties in the application of road rules, safety requirements, and the legal and regulatory requirements. They may give rise to significant issues relating to driver classification and licensing for AVs, due to the varied levels of control and involvement in the driving process. For this reason, legislative reform at specific jurisdictional levels is suggested together with clearer international standards as a pathway to ensure the safe and effective integration of autonomous vehicles into society.