CSIRO partners with Australian Sports Commission to determine benefits of AI to sport

A new world-first research partnership between CSIRO, Australia's national science agency and the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) is aimed at helping Australian sport benefit from Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The three-year agreement will initially focus on two research areas, developing an AI for Australian sports roadmap and responsible AI in sports.

The use of AI in sports is 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.

CSIRO's Data61 Director, Professor Jon Whittle, said the collaboration aims to advance and build the capability of sport in Australia from participation to high performance.

Prof. Whittle noted "we are committed to delivering positive impact across all levels of sport and helping the ASC inspire more Australians to be involved in sport.

"The AI roadmap and responsible AI practices will help improve the performance and integrity of Australian sport, positioning us as a global leader."

ASC Chief Executive Kieren Perkins said the partnership will also help the ASC drive innovation across Australia’s sport system adding "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.

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

Cross-sport research opportunities, that align with CSIRO's capabilities, will also be identified and incorporated into the partnership.