Swinburne-led network to guide AI use in youth services

In summary

Swinburne researchers Dr Joel McGregor, Dr Linus Tan and Dr Caleb Lloyd have launched a new collaborative network to help guide the rapid emergence of generative artificial intelligence use in youth-focused services across Victoria.

The Responsible AI in Youth Sectors Network (RAI YSN), pronounced "raisin", has been created as a shared space for open discussion, knowledge-building and coordinated action on AI's expanding role in youth work, youth justice and care services.

This program explores how AI is currently used, could be used, and should only be used with caution, safeguards or human oversight. It aims to understand the potential benefits, risks and ethical considerations. By bringing together professionals, policymakers and researchers, RAI YSN aims to identify key opportunities, concerns and priorities for the sector.

Co-facilitated with Swinburne researchers, RAI SYN is sector-led, ensuring that AI is adopted responsibly, equitably and with young people's voices at the center. The direction and priorities are shaped by those working directly with young people, reflecting the needs and realities of the sector.

"AI has arrived in the youth services. RAI YSN is about making sure sector expertise leads the way, that youth workers, advocates and young people themselves are shaping how these tools are designed, governed and used, so they strengthen, rather than undermine, safety, dignity and opportunity for young people," says Dr Joel McGregor.

Where sector knowledge meets research expertise

The network grew out of a recent research workshop led by Dr McGregor, Dr Tan and Dr Lloyd, which examined current and potential uses of AI in youth-focused settings. The workshop highlighted the need for a shared space to coordinate understanding, identify risks and explore pathways for meaningful AI integration. Interest has been strong, with more than 60 participants from over 40 organisations already involved in RAI YSN.

The ongoing research seeks to better understand the sector's views on AI, from ethical considerations to opportunities for innovation and improved service delivery. By bringing together practitioners, policymakers and researchers, the project aims to clarify emerging challenges and identify the support needed to navigate them.

"Responsible AI in youth sectors isn't a technical puzzle but a community responsibility. We must ensure that AI genuinely supports young people's wellbeing, rather than being adopted simply because it is available. RAI YSN keeps the sector focused on purpose," says Dr Linus Tan.

Join RAI YSN

The network welcomes youth workers, policymakers, advocates and professionals involved in digital innovation, safety and governance. It brings together a diverse group of people who are collectively grappling with AI's impact on young people's rights, wellbeing and opportunities.

By contributing now, members can help ensure responsible AI becomes not only an ambition but a practice, a policy priority and a shared community responsibility across Victoria's youth sectors.

The first quarterly RAI YSN meeting will take place online on 15 Dec at 11am AEST, where we will share the findings from the workshop. If you're interested in joining RAI SYN, please contact Dr Joel McGregor at [email protected]