South Australia Police officers are set to trial new AI transcription technology designed to reduce paperwork and give officers more time on frontline duties.
The state government is investing in the AI-enabled transcription tool, which will be used for interviews and operational recordings. The technology aims to significantly reduce the time sworn officers spend preparing reports.
At present, SA Police officers manually transcribe statements from victims and witnesses, a process that can take hours. Under the new trial, interviews will be transcribed in real time, before being thoroughly reviewed and signed off by an officer.
The initiative is funded through the State Government’s $35 million AI Proof of Value program, which was boosted in the recent State Budget. The program supports targeted trials of high-impact AI applications across government services and operations.
The Government says the trial builds on broader investments aimed at returning more police to frontline duties.
In the 2023-24 Budget, the State Government announced $82 million over four years to hire an extra 189 Police Security Officers to replace sworn police in areas including custody management.
Following the initial round, an additional $29.6 million over three years was allocated in last year’s budget to expand the Police Security Officer model into regional areas, with an extra 98 PSOs.
A further $9.7 million over four years was also allocated in last year’s budget to expand the workforce civilianisation model, where administrative staff perform office duties so sworn officers can be redeployed to frontline roles.
“As a government, we have made extensive investments to see more police on active duty and less time stuck behind a desk,” Minister for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Economy Chris Picton said.
“This new smart technology trial is a practical use of AI that will make a real difference to the day-to-day job for SAPOL officers.
“Through our AI Proof of Value program, we’re backing smart, targeted trials that deliver real benefits and this initiative shows how AI can be safely applied to improve essential public services like policing.”
Minister for Police Michael Brown said the technology would help reduce administrative pressure on officers.
“By cutting down the time officers spend on paperwork, we’re freeing them up to focus on what matters most, keeping South Australians safe.
“Transcription is a time-consuming but essential part of policing. Using AI to streamline this process means faster reporting, less administrative burden, and a more modern, responsive police service.
“This technology will not only support our police but also improve the experience for victims and witnesses by ensuring their statements are captured quickly and accurately.”
