What is an AI governance readiness assessment?

An AI governance readiness assessment is an independent evaluation process that confirms an organisation has implemented appropriate policies, controls, and accountability structures for responsible AI deployment. It demonstrates alignment with Australian Government AI guidance and ethical principles.

Why do organisations need AI governance?

AI governance helps organisations reduce board and executive liability, meet procurement requirements, manage insurance exposure, protect reputation, and address increasing regulatory scrutiny. It demonstrates due diligence and responsible AI practices to stakeholders.

What are the risks of not implementing AI governance?

Without proper AI governance, organisations face board and executive liability, procurement rejection, increased insurance costs, reputational damage, and regulatory enforcement action. These risks increase as AI systems become more prevalent in business operations.

How long does an AI governance assessment take?

The assessment process involves five stages: governance review, policy alignment, independent assessment, maturity determination, and governance uplift roadmap. Timeline varies based on organisation size, AI complexity, and current governance maturity.

What assessment level do I need?

Choose Early Stage assessment for initial or pilot AI use, Operational assessment for AI in production, or Full Governance assessment for high-risk or regulated AI deployments. An initial consultation can help determine the appropriate level.

Code of Professional Conduct

Standards of behaviour and professional obligation for all appointed assessors, panel members, and persons acting on behalf of AIGC.

Version 1.0Effective Date: 1 July 2025

All appointed assessors, panel members, advisory council members, and any other persons formally engaged in AIGC assessment or governance activities are bound by this Code. This Code applies irrespective of employment status. Acceptance of appointment or engagement with AIGC constitutes agreement to comply with these obligations in full.

Purpose

This Code of Professional Conduct establishes the standards of behaviour and professional obligation expected of all individuals who act on behalf of AI Governance Council Australia in a formal capacity. This includes independent assessors, panel members, advisory council members, and any other persons engaged in AIGC assessment or governance activities.

The Code exists to preserve institutional credibility, independence, and public trust in AIGC's assessment framework. Adherence to this Code is a condition of appointment and continued engagement with AIGC.

Integrity and Impartiality

All persons bound by this Code must conduct themselves with honesty and integrity in every aspect of their professional engagement with AIGC. Assessments, recommendations, and decisions must be based solely on documented evidence evaluated against AIGC's published criteria.

Obligations

Act honestly and in good faith in all professional dealings

Reach conclusions based on evidence, not assumption, preference, or external influence

Refuse to participate in any activity that could compromise the objectivity of an assessment

Disclose any circumstance that may give rise to a reasonable perception of bias

Refrain from accepting gifts, inducements, or hospitality that could influence professional judgement

Competence and Due Care

Persons engaged in AIGC activities must possess and maintain the professional competence necessary for their role. Work must be performed with diligence, thoroughness, and appropriate care.

Obligations

Accept only engagements for which they have adequate knowledge, skills, and experience

Maintain currency with developments in AI governance practice and AIGC methodology

Exercise professional judgement with appropriate rigour and attention to detail

Complete all work within agreed timeframes and to the standard expected by AIGC

Seek guidance or escalate matters when the limits of personal competence are reached

Confidentiality

All information obtained during the course of AIGC activities must be treated as confidential unless explicitly authorised for disclosure. This obligation extends beyond the period of active engagement.

Obligations

Protect the confidentiality of all information obtained through assessment or governance activities

Use confidential information only for the purposes for which it was provided

Store and transmit sensitive information securely, in accordance with AIGC's information handling requirements

Refrain from disclosing assessment outcomes, organisational information, or deliberations to unauthorised parties

Maintain confidentiality obligations indefinitely, unless released by AIGC or required by law

Conflict of Interest

Persons bound by this Code must identify and disclose any actual, potential, or perceived conflict of interest. Conflicts must be managed transparently and in accordance with AIGC's conflict of interest procedures.

Obligations

Declare all relevant interests, relationships, and affiliations prior to accepting an engagement

Immediately disclose any conflict that arises during the course of an engagement

Withdraw from an engagement where a conflict cannot be adequately managed

Refrain from using a position within AIGC for personal advantage or the advantage of associated parties

Comply with any direction from AIGC regarding the management of a declared conflict

Professional Behaviour

All persons acting on behalf of AIGC must conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the reputation and standing of the organisation. Professional behaviour extends to all interactions with assessed organisations, colleagues, the public, and regulatory bodies.

Obligations

Treat all parties with courtesy, respect, and fairness

Communicate clearly, accurately, and without misrepresentation

Refrain from making public statements that could undermine public confidence in AIGC's processes

Cooperate fully with AIGC's internal processes, including complaints handling and quality reviews

Conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the values and institutional standards of AIGC

Breach and Disciplinary Action

A breach of this Code is a serious matter. AIGC will investigate any reported or suspected breach in accordance with its disciplinary procedures. Outcomes may include, but are not limited to:

Formal written warning

Suspension of appointment or engagement

Revocation of appointment

Removal from an active assessment or panel

Reporting to relevant professional bodies where appropriate

All persons subject to this Code will be afforded procedural fairness in any disciplinary process. AIGC retains discretion to determine appropriate action based on the nature and severity of the breach. Alleged breaches may be reported through AIGC's formal complaints mechanism.

Review and amendment

This Code is reviewed periodically by AIGC and may be amended from time to time. Persons bound by this Code will be notified of material changes. Continued engagement with AIGC following notification constitutes acceptance of the amended Code.

Related information

Review AIGC's ethics framework and complaints procedures.

Ethics and independence Complaints and appeals