NSW Health Communications teams can use this toolkit to inform staff about the NSW Health AI Framework, along with sharing information on local guidance and approval processes for AI use.
Background
- Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to improve healthcare and is already doing so in many ways. As NSW Health continues to harness the potential and innovations associated with AI, we remain committed to managing risks and maximising the benefits.
- The NSW Health AI Framework explains how AI should be used safely and responsibly across the health system. It complements existing policies and laws.
- The framework provides a consistent, risk-based approach so AI is used to benefit patients, staff and the community. The use of AI is guided by the principles of transparency, accountability and trust.
- The framework was created by the NSW Health AI Taskforce. It is based on national and state requirements, research evidence, expert advice and consultation with key partners.
- The AI Framework provides:
- clear, practical guidance for NSW Health staff working with AI
- a consistent approach across all parts of NSW Health
- information about laws, policies and best practice relevant to AI projects
- 7 priority areas that explain the principles, policies and day‑to‑day actions needed to use AI safely: Consumers; Workforce; Privacy and Security; Governance and Regulation; Safety, Ethics and Quality; Research and Development; Industry.
- The framework will be reviewed and updated to respond to emerging developments.
- For ongoing support and resources, the eHealth NSW AI Advisory Service offers health leaders and staff guidance and support for AI assessment, compliance and alignment with strategic priorities. The AI framework is supported by a suite of policies and resources for privacy, security, procurement, and workforce capability and strategy.
- Clinicians can use the framework to:
- review existing and planned initiatives involving AI to align them with the framework and local governance arrangements
- build awareness of obligations when using AI technologies, and the appropriate pathways to seek further guidance and support
- use appropriate channels and established pathways to garner further support and advice for AI initiatives, including the AI Advisory Service.
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Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to transform healthcare, offering new opportunities to improve outcomes for patients, staff and the community. As NSW Health continues to embrace AI innovation, we remain committed to managing risks and ensuring these technologies are used safely and responsibly.
The NSW Health AI Framework supports the responsible use and adoption of AI across the health system. It provides practical guidance to help us implement AI in a way that supports consumer‑centred care, transparency, accountability and trust. The framework complements existing state and national laws and policies, and will be reviewed regularly to keep pace with emerging developments.
The framework includes:
- information on laws, policies and best practice relevant to AI projects
- 7 priority areas outlining the principles, policies and day-to-day actions needed for safe AI use:
Consumers; Workforce; Privacy and Security; Governance and Regulation; Safety, Ethics and Quality; Research and Development; Industry
View the framework and supporting resources: aci.health.nsw.gov.au/ai-framework
[Add relevant resources and contacts for local AI guidance.]
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Frequently asked questions
These FAQs are also available at: aci.health.nsw.gov.au/ai-framework/faqs
What is the NSW Health AI Framework?
The NSW Health AI Framework is a practical guide that explains how AI should be used safely, responsibly and consistently across the health system. Published in February 2026, it is designed to complement existing laws and policies and be updated to keep pace with ongoing developments in AI.
Why has the framework been developed?
Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to improve healthcare and is already doing so in many ways. The NSW Health AI Taskforce has developed the framework to guide the responsible use of AI within NSW Health, maximising these benefits and managing risks.
The framework provides a consistent, risk-based approach so AI is used to benefit patients, NSW Health staff and the community. The use of AI is guided by the principles of transparency, accountability and trust.
Who is the framework for?
The framework applies across all NSW Health organisations and staff, and to any initiatives that involve or include the use of AI.
What principles guide the use of AI in NSW Health?
AI use in NSW Health is guided by the following principles:
Transparency: communicating clearly about when and how AI is used within the health system
Accountability: ensuring governance and responsibilities are clear at all levels
Trust: maintaining confidence that AI is being used safely, ethically and responsibly
What is included in the framework?
The AI framework provides clear, practical guidance for NSW Health staff working with AI, and a consistent approach across all parts of NSW Health. It includes information about laws, policies and best practice relevant to AI projects.
The framework covers 7 priority areas that explain the principles, policies and day‑to‑day actions needed to use AI safely: Consumers; Workforce; Privacy and Security; Governance and Regulation; Safety, Ethics and Quality; Research and Development; Industry.
Does the framework replace existing policies or approval processes?
No, the framework does not replace existing policies or processes. It complements existing laws, policies and governance processes, and explains how they apply to AI use in NSW Health.
The framework highlights policies and resources related to privacy, security, procurement, and workforce capability and strategy. Learn more about the AI landscape including national and state requirements.
Does the framework apply to existing AI use?
Yes – both current and new AI related initiatives should be considered against the framework.
Will the AI framework change over time?
Yes. Given the rapidly evolving nature of AI, the framework will be reviewed and updated periodically to remain responsive to emerging developments.
Where can NSW Health organisations find support and advice about AI?
NSW Health entities can use the eHealth NSW AI Advisory Service, which provides guidance on AI assessment, compliance and alignment with strategic priorities.
This service can help health entities seeking to:
- explore and discuss current challenges
- submit AI project proposals
- align initiatives with statewide strategic directions and funding pathways
- evaluate and receive recommendations on new AI-related requests
- receive advice and support to operationalise AI responsibly.
Learn more about the AI Advisory Service or email: EHNSW-AI-Advisory@health.nsw.gov.au
Who can I contact for more information about the AI framework?
For NSW Health staff, local ICT and governance leaders can provide guidance on the use of AI in your organisation in line with the framework.
For enquiries about the AI Framework or AI Taskforce, please email MOH-AI-mailbox@health.nsw.gov.au
Media enquiries
Please direct any media enquiries regarding the AI framework to the Agency for Clinical Innovation Communications team:
Danielle Oppermann, External Communications and Engagement Manager
Email: danielle.oppermann@health.nsw.gov.au, ACI-Media@health.nsw.gov.au