KPMG Australia secures first global AI management standard

KPMG Australia has been certified as the world's first organisation to meet the international standard for artificial intelligence management as set by BSI.

BSI has awarded KPMG Australia this certification based on the Information technology. Artificial intelligence. Management system (BS ISO/IEC 42001) standard. Designed to ensure the responsible use of artificial intelligence, this international benchmark addresses concerns such as automatic decision-making without transparency and reliance on machine learning over human-coded logic.

The standard, published in the United Kingdom by BSI less than a year ago, provides a comprehensive framework for organisations to develop and improve an AI management system. It includes guidance on conducting context-based AI risk assessments and implementing risk treatments and controls for various AI applications and services, both internally and externally. Its aim is to help companies foster a culture of quality-centred AI design and development while supporting society's broader interests.

In response to the inaugural release of the ISO 42001 standard, KPMG Australia formed a dedicated team in February 2024 to prepare for the rigorous BSI certification process. This commitment required an extensive audit of the company's governance, project management, and the integration of trusted AI practices into everyday operations. The certification not only tested adherence to a minimum requirement but also encouraged continuous improvement across AI management practices.

Manuel Gazzard, President, Regulatory Services at BSI, remarked, "AI has the potential to be a significant force for good in society, transforming lives everywhere. But to realise its benefits having the guardrails in place for the safe and ethical use of AI is critical. It's fantastic to see KPMG Australia demonstrate the work they have done to ensure the safe and responsible use of AI and become the first in the world to achieve BSI's certification to the AI management system standard. This is an important step forward and one that has the potential to empower other global organisations to responsibly manage their technology."

Gazzard also highlighted the broader significance of such certification: "Certification to this standard offers reassurance to stakeholders on the safe and responsible use of AI in an organisation's products and services, paving the way for them to harness AI to accelerate progress towards a better future and a sustainable world. BSI is proud to be at the forefront of ensuring AI's safe and trusted integration across society."

KPMG Australia's approach to AI has been both strategic and ethically driven. John Munnelly, Chief Digital Officer at KPMG Australia noted, "AI can solve complex challenges, and unlock new possibilities for growth. We are committed to helping our clients embrace this technology in a trustworthy and ethical manner, enhancing both efficiency and innovation."

His remarks underscore KPMG Australia's dedication to responsible AI deployment. "With ISO 42001 emerging as the new gold standard for AI certification, we are delighted that our approach has met this extremely high bar. This certification of our robust AI management system is testament to the fact that we are living and breathing our trusted AI commitment. It is also integral to our ongoing AI strategy, which focuses not just on high-level governance but also detailed implementation to build ethical AI solutions in accordance with ISO42001 standards," Munnelly continued.