Does Viktor Ko support AI safety?
Viktor Ko (Labor) is a candidate for Curtin (house).
Viktor Ko explicitly supports both the creation of an Australian AI Safety Institute and an Australian AI Act with mandatory guardrails. His positions on these issues appear stronger and more definitive than Labor's official stance, which has been more cautious about committing to a dedicated safety institute and specific AI legislation. As a medical doctor and local government councillor with governance experience, Ko emphasises both the need for independent evaluation of advanced AI systems and clear legislative frameworks with mandatory guardrails. While Labor candidates typically vote with their party, Ko states he would "strongly advocate" for the establishment of an AI Safety Institute in the next term of government if elected.
Their score on expert-recommended AI safety policies
Over 356 experts, public figures, and concerned citizens endorsed these policies in their open letter before the 2025 election.
AI Safety Institute
A well-resourced, independent technical body to assess AI risks and advise on safety standards.
Viktor Ko supports
Notes: Viktor Ko explicitly states he "support[s] the establishment of a dedicated Australian AI Safety Institute to independently research, monitor, and evaluate advanced AI systems, particularly frontier models." He acknowledges that while the Labor Government has taken steps toward AI safety, a standalone institute "remains an active policy consideration" and he would "strongly advocate for its establishment in the next term of government." This personal position is stronger than Labor's official stance, which has claimed existing departmental functions are sufficient.
Mandatory Guardrails
A dedicated AI Act with mandatory guardrails for high-risk AI systems will both protect Australians and create the certainty businesses need to innovate.
Viktor Ko supports
Notes: Viktor Ko explicitly states he "support[s] introducing an Australian AI Act that sets mandatory risk-based guardrails for AI developers and deployers." He mentions that Labor is "progressing" work on legislation for AI governance that would include transparency requirements, human oversight mechanisms, and penalties for misuse. His personal position is more definitive than Labor's official stance, which has been described as "partially supports" in our evaluation.
Contact Viktor Ko
Email: curtin@walabor.org.au