Quantum developments, data localisation and ethics in AI with Google's Alex Lynch

Technology and Security (TS)

In this episode Alex Lynch, from Google Australia’s Public Policy team, joins Dr Miah Hammond-Errey to discuss emerging technologies, quantum, Australia’s role and much more. They cover Google’s recent quantum announcement on error correction and Australia’s significant role in quantum research, data localisation, ethics in AI — including Google’s approach — and strategic decoupling. They also talk about the complexity and security of Google’s global infrastructure, data breaches and what it is that should not be automated.

Alex manages Google's public policy engagement in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and quantum computing, as well as related areas, including digital lines of communication, technology supply chains and trade and investment. Prior to joining Google, Alex consulted on crisis and strategic reputation management for some of Australia's top companies, having formerly worked as a national security practitioner in New Zealand.

Technology and Security is hosted by Dr Miah Hammond-Errey, the inaugural director of the Emerging Technology program at the United States Studies Centre, based at the University of Sydney.

Resources mentioned in the recording:

• (USSC Report) Secrecy, sovereignty and sharing: How data and emerging technologies are transforming intelligence: https://www.ussc.edu.au/analysis/secrecy-sovereignty-and-sharing-how-data-and-emerging-technologies-are-transforming-intelligence
• (USSC Polling Explainer) Collaboration with trusted allies and distrust in Chinese technology: American, Australian and Japanese views on technology: https://www.ussc.edu.au/analysis/collaboration-with-trusted-allies-and-distrust-in-chinese-technology-american-australian-and-japanese-views-on-technology
• Google’s AI principles: https://blog.google/technology/ai/ai-principles/
• The Declaration on the Future of the Internet: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/04/28/fact-sheet-united-states-and-60-global-partners-launch-declaration-for-the-future-of-the-internet/
• Digital Futures Initiative: https://blog.google/intl/en-au/company-news/outreach-initiatives/digital-future-initiative/
• (Book) Fleet Tactics and Naval Operations: https://www.usni.org/press/books/fleet-tactics-and-naval-operations-third-edition

Miah’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/Miah_HE

The USSC website: https://www.ussc.edu.au/

Making great content requires fabulous teams. Thanks to the great talents of the following.

Research support and assistance: Tom Barrett

Production: Elliott Brennan

Podcast design: Susan Beale

Music: Dr Paul Mac

This podcast was recorded on the lands of the Gadigal people of the Eora nation, and we pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging — here and wherever you’re listening. We acknowledge their continuing connection to land, sea and community, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.