World-first Aussie research looks at AI in sport

Robot athlete. | Newsreel
AI in sport is the focus of a new collaboration. | Photo: Grafissimo (iStock)

Aussie athletes at the Brisbane 2032 Games will have leveraged the benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) thanks to a new collaboration.

The CSIRO and the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) have joined forces in a world-first research partnership to help Australian sport benefit from AI.

CSIRO’s Data61 Director Jon Whittle said the collaboration aimed to advance and build the capability of sport in Australia from participation to high performance.

Professor Whittle said the three-year agreement would initially focus on two research areas, developing an AI for Australian sports roadmap and responsible AI in sports.

He said the use of AI in sports was increasing and dispersed, highlighting the need for collaboration across sports, as well as transparency, fairness, inclusivity and alignment to ethical standards in sports and AI.

“The AI for Australian sports roadmap will provide a comprehensive overview of AI uses, identify cross-sport opportunities and set research priorities, while the responsible AI position statement and checklist will help sporting and community stakeholders adopt AI responsibly.

“We are committed to delivering positive impact across all levels of sport and helping the ASC inspire more Australians to be involved in sport.”

Professor Whittle said the AI roadmap and responsible AI practices would help improve the performance and integrity of Australian sport, positioning the country as a global leader.

ASC CEO Kieren Perkins said the partnership would also help the ASC drive innovation across Australia’s sport system.

“Working in collaboration with CSIRO, the ASC will be well placed to support Australian sport to better harness data and emerging digital technologies within strong ethical and responsible guardrails,” Mr Perkins said.

“It is also an opportunity for the ASC and CSIRO to workshop how Australian sport can reap the benefits of AI.”