Photo source: IT Professionals NZ
Business professionals looking for information from government agencies may soon have fewer interactions with human officials, thanks to a new artificial intelligence (AI) pilot initiative called GovGPT, which is being developed in collaboration with Callaghan Innovation.
Judith Collins, the minister for Digitising Government, revealed the upcoming October launch of this pilot programme during the Aotearoa AI Summit held in Auckland on Wednesday.
Collins emphasised that AI could facilitate easier access to trustworthy government information and assist businesses with their interactions with government entities.
Sarah Sun, the head of AI at Callaghan Innovation, noted that while government websites host essential information for businesses, locating it can often be challenging.
“Businesses often don’t have time to hunt around for what they need from Government, so there’s a risk of missing out on support or crucial information,” Sun stated.
Collins anticipates that, over time, the general public will also engage with AI when seeking assistance from government services. She described GovGPT as an initial step toward creating a “digital front-door,” enabling individuals to conveniently and promptly find answers to their government-related inquiries.
Data from Official Information Act requests indicate that relying solely on static websites and human-operated call centres can hinder some individuals from receiving the assistance they require.
In the year leading up to June of last year, an average of 134,929 calls to the Ministry of Social Development were abandoned by callers due to excessive wait times.
Sun explained that GovGPT would interact with users via text and voice chats, supporting multiple languages.
“Anyone should be able to access important information in a way that’s most intuitive to humans; natural conversations in their preferred language,” she remarked. “GovGPT is a first step.”
Collins has articulated a vision for a more efficient government through digital transformation, which aims to reduce the need for human interactions.
Earlier this year, she introduced an NZ Transport Agency App designed as a comprehensive solution for drivers to manage Vehicle Registration and Road User Charges, ultimately paving the way for digital Driver Licences.
Alongside the announcement of GovGPT, Collins revealed that Callaghan Innovation has launched an initiative aimed at promoting AI adoption among New Zealand businesses. Known as the “AI Activator,” this programme will provide businesses with access to AI experts, tools, research and development resources, as well as interactive learning modules, drawing inspiration from similar initiatives like the Healthtech and Agritech Activators.
“The AI Activator will unlock the potential of AI for New Zealand businesses through a range of support, including access to AI research experts, technical assistance, AI tools and resources, as well as options for funding and grants,” Collins stated.
AI is predicted to contribute $76 billion to New Zealand’s annual GDP by 2038.
“It is crucial we support businesses to improve their awareness and uptake of AI, so they can capitalise on the benefits as the rest of the world rapidly adopts this technology,” she concluded.
