Artificial Intelligence is changing how small businesses work. Applications include chatbots answering customer questions to software for specific use-cases, such as transcribing and processing meeting notes for various professions. AI tools are becoming part of daily business life. While these tools can save time and money, they also bring new risks that business owners should understand.
The Australian government has created the Voluntary AI Safety Standard (VAISS) to help businesses use AI safely. Think of it as a checklist to make sure AI works for your business, not against it.
Why This Matters for Your Business
Many small businesses already use AI without realising it – in accounting software, customer service tools, or marketing platforms. Understanding how to use these tools responsibly protects your business and builds customer trust.
The 10 Key Guidelines From the Voluntary AIA Safety Standard (simplified)
- Plan how AI fits your business strategy
- Identify and manage AI-related risks
- Keep your data and AI systems secure
- Test AI tools before fully relying on them
- Always have a person who can step in
- Tell customers when AI is being used
- Let people give feedback or raise concerns
- Be open about how you use AI
- Keep records of AI decisions and processes
- Consider how AI affects your customers and staff
Practical Steps for Small Businesses
Start small: If you’re using AI for invoicing or customer support, ensure you understand how it works and can explain decisions to clients. Keep a ‘human in the loop’ and never let AI make final decisions about client finances or sensitive business matters.
What We’re Doing
Our firm is staying current with AI developments to help clients navigate this changing landscape. Whether you’re considering AI tools for your business or want to understand how our own AI use is being considered, we’re here to discuss the opportunities and risks.
The full VAISS guidelines are available at the Department of Industry website: Voluntary AI Safety Standard | Department of Industry Science and Resources. We encourage you to also read the examples for some more practical guidance to get started: Applying and adopting the standard through examples | Voluntary AI Safety Standard | Department of Industry Science and Resources. Expect updates with AI rapidly evolving, and we would love to hear about your experiences adopting AI in your business, employment and personal lives.