Experienced public sector leader Peter Meere has been appointed as the inaugural Director of the newly established Office for AI in South Australia. This position follows a comprehensive national search aimed at identifying a leader capable of guiding the strategic and responsible adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) within the state’s public sector.
In his new role, Mr. Meere will focus on ensuring that AI is implemented safely, ethically, and effectively to enhance government services. His responsibilities include promoting economic growth and supporting workforce transformation across various public service sectors.
Extensive Background in Public Sector Leadership
Peter Meere brings a wealth of experience to this position, having a proven track record in navigating complex policy landscapes and driving transformative reforms. His most recent achievement was leading the Department for Education in South Australia, where he developed a pioneering policy response to AI. This initiative set a national benchmark by balancing innovation with responsible usage, positively impacting government schools across the state.
Throughout his career, Mr. Meere has held senior positions in notable organizations, including the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet and the Australian Government Attorney-General’s Department. He also contributed to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, where he played a significant role in implementing large-scale policy and system reforms.
Support from Government Officials
Michael Brown, a key figure within the South Australian Government, expressed his enthusiasm for Mr. Meere’s appointment, stating, “Peter is an accomplished leader, and I am delighted to have his support and expertise as we continue to grow the public sector’s capacity in AI.” He emphasized that Mr. Meere’s decades of experience in innovation and change will be invaluable as the government accelerates its efforts in integrating AI technologies.
The establishment of the Office for AI reflects South Australia’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance public services while ensuring ethical standards are met. With Peter Meere at the helm, the government aims to foster a collaborative environment that addresses the challenges faced by both technology companies and public sector departments.
As South Australia moves forward under his leadership, the focus will remain on ensuring that the adoption of AI serves to benefit the community while aligning with the broader goals of responsible governance and public accountability.
