ABC tests AI tools for newsroom work

The ABC is preparing a broader rollout of AI tools for staff after updating its internal guidelines and selecting Anthropic’s Claude as its standard enterprise-wide platform, alongside Microsoft tools and its in-house ABC Assist system. A July pilot will involve 100 “AI Champions” across the organisation before staged expansion, with executives telling staff that public broadcasters must decide how to shape AI use in line with their values.

One trial uses ABC Assist to help convert regional radio bulletins into digital articles, with the same local journalists repurposing copy and editorial leaders and sub-editors checking material before publication. The ABC said AI would support routine production tasks, research and public-interest reporting, while its principles rule out using AI for “end-to-end journalism” or publishing without human oversight.

The Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance said responsible AI could give journalists more time for source work, analysis and fact checking, but warned that members remained concerned about job security and trust. The union said the ABC agreed to consultation and ethical guidelines during bargaining, but declined to commit to a provision that AI would not replace human workers.

The ABC has also revised disclosure rules, saying it will be open with audiences when AI use “could materially affect their understanding” of content. Researchers said the approach could be more workable than blanket disclosure, though critics warned that embracing generative AI could put the broadcaster’s standing at risk. An all-staff town hall is scheduled for July 28.