Last week’s release of Australia’s National AI Plan represents a landmark moment for our sector, and one that Magentus wholeheartedly welcomes. More than just a policy document, it’s a well-considered, principles-based framework reflecting deep understanding of the opportunities and sensitivities relating to artificial intelligence in healthcare.
Having worked closely with clinicians, innovators and regulators, I’m delighted to see a plan that balances ambition with responsibility. It’s clear that the government has listened to industry, to practitioners, and to patients. The result is a plan that captures the promise of AI in closing service gaps while respecting the realities of healthcare delivery. The Plan recognises that AI is already having a positive impact in healthcare, and that Australian companies are already building world leading applications to help doctors, but that building on this strength requires the right conditions for innovation.
Real-World AI Innovation That Works for People
In a survey of specialist practices we undertook earlier this year, 43% of respondents were already using AI in their practice and more were exploring its adoption. At Magentus, we have long believed that AI should work for people, not the other way around. That is why we are investing in new tools that help clinicians reduce admin and focus more on patient care. It’s why we launched patient dashboards that use AI to surface insights from thousands of records in seconds. These are real-world examples of AI improving clinical care and productivity, two of the three pillars the Medical Software Industry Association (MSIA) rightly identified in its “Goldilocks” approach to AI regulation.
The third pillar, of course, is safety. And here again, the National AI Plan gets it right. Rather than layering on new regulators or duplicating oversight, the Plan builds on existing frameworks like the TGA’s Software as a Medical Device principles. It complements voluntary codes such as the MSIA and MTAA’s joint AI Governance Code, without creating confusion or uncertainty for developers, clinicians or investors.
Interoperability, Trust and Responsible AI
AI in healthcare touches on some of the most complex issues we face: privacy, equity, bias, trust, consent, and commercialisation. Rather than shying away from these challenges, The Plan acknowledges them, and sets out a path forward that’s transparent, inclusive and evidence-based. The use of data sources like the ABS, Jobs and Skills Australia reports, and the National AI Centre’s Adoption Tracker shows a welcome commitment to measuring impact.
We are particularly pleased to see the Plan’s emphasis on interoperability and connected services. Magentus has long been an advocate for frictionless data exchange across the health system. Our participation in the Department of Health’s Connected Care Demonstrator in Canberra last month showcased how FHIR-enabled platforms can link GPs, specialists, hospitals and aged care providers in real time. For us, it’s not about technology for technology’s sake; it’s about better outcomes, faster decisions, more empowered clinicians, and better patient outcomes.
Of course, with great potential comes great responsibility. That is why we have embedded responsible AI principles into our governance and product development. Our Data and AI Charter outlines commitments to privacy-by-design, ethical data use, and human oversight. And we’ve conducted rigorous risk reviews to ensure our tools meet Australian standards and community expectations.
We also recognise the importance of consent and cultural sensitivity, especially when working with First Nations data or vulnerable populations. The Plan’s reference to Indigenous data sovereignty and community-led governance is a welcome inclusion, and one we support wholeheartedly.
A Strong Foundation for Australia’s Digital Health Future
Looking ahead, we see enormous potential for AI to support Australia’s healthcare system, particularly in areas like diagnostics, chronic disease management, and workforce efficiency. Yet we also know that success depends on trust. That’s why we’ll continue to work with government, industry and clinicians to ensure AI is adopted transparently, safely and with clear benefit to patients.
The National AI Plan is a sound foundation. It’s principles-based, not prescriptive. It encourages innovation without compromising safety. And it reflects the kind of thoughtful, consultative approach that Australia is known for, built on deep knowledge and engagement.
At Magentus, we’re proud to support the Plan and excited to help bring its vision to life. Whether it’s through smarter workflows, connected platforms, or AI-powered insights, we’re committed to building a future where technology truly works for people, and where every Australian can benefit from intelligent, data-driven care.
