Western Australia has unveiled a $10 million investment fund alongside an AI Centre of Excellence aimed at accelerating AI adoption within the public sector, improving efficiency and community outcomes.
- A $10 million fund targeting AI projects in the public sector
- Establishment of an AI Centre of Excellence to support government agencies
- Integration with WA’s Digital Strategy 2026-2030 focused on data and workforce upskilling
What happened
The Western Australian government has launched a $10 million investment fund dedicated to artificial intelligence initiatives within the public sector. This fund aims to attract partnerships with industry and universities to pilot and scale AI projects that improve productivity and service delivery outcomes.
Alongside the fund, the government established an AI Centre of Excellence designed to provide specialized expertise and support for deploying AI technologies across government agencies. This team will help reduce administrative burdens and enhance decision-making capabilities while ensuring the safe and responsible use of AI.
Why it matters
The government’s focus on building AI readiness through infrastructure investment, workforce upskilling, and governance underpins its commitment to future-proofing the public sector. This strategic approach fosters greater collaboration, faster adoption of advanced tools, and improved resource allocation to meet evolving public needs.
What to watch next
Key developments to monitor include the rollout and impact of AI projects funded by the $10 million investment, particularly how pilot programs transition into statewide implementations. The effectiveness of the AI uplift team in supporting agencies and scaling successful solutions will also be critical.
Additionally, stakeholders should track progress under the Digital Strategy 2026-2030, especially efforts around data sharing, cross-agency collaboration, and workforce development. These components will play essential roles in sustaining the momentum for AI adoption and maximizing its benefits across Western Australia’s public sector.