Microsoft Australia and the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The agreement prioritizes workers' rights and skills development related to artificial intelligence. This commitment marks the first time a major technology firm in Australia has taken such a step, setting a new precedent for the sector.
The MOU explicitly recognizes the right of Microsoft employees to join and receive representation from a union.
The partnership will jointly develop AI training and resources for the workforce. This ensures workers can effectively engage with and contribute to the design and implementation of AI systems in their workplaces.
Furthermore, Microsoft committed to including mechanisms that elevate workers' voices in decision-making processes for new AI products.