The hub’s research streams will be led by UNSW academics and supported by “real-world experience” at Allens, investigating wide-ranging issues from data as a source of market power through to the concept of legal responsibility for AI.

The hub was first announced in November of last year, as an opportunity for Allens and UNSW to work closely together to explore challenges presented by digital transformation to the legal system.

Allens partner and head of innovation Anna Collyer said the hub will play a leadership role in the navigation of disruption in Australia’s legal system.

“The unprecedented pace and scale of technological advancement has meant that our legal system is in many cases no longer fit for purpose [which] not only runs the risk of legal uncertainty, but also of hampering Australian businesses’ ability to harness innovation,” she said.

“It is essential that the law strikes the right balance between limiting risk and promoting innovation during this period of disruption.”

UNSW’s director of the Allens Hub, associate professor Lyria Bennett Moses, said they are looking at a broad range of questions at the intersection of law and new technologies.

“The hub will bring together a diverse group of UNSW academics, working with lawyers at Allens as well as industry, the legal profession, government and civil society, to explore the law’s role in governing data-driven decision-making, recognising new ‘persons’ and promoting innovation, among other topics,” she said.

VIEW ALL

“At the same time, the role of technology in promoting access to justice and the appropriate use of artificial intelligence in legal practice will also be explored.”

Ms Collyer continued, “The Allens Hub’s new research streams will provide world-leading insights to help guide Australia’s legal evolution.

“We’re looking forward to working with USNW researchers on these exciting projects and translating their insights into cutting-edge practical advice for our clients.”