Artificial Intelligence and algorithmic decision-making in the criminal justice system

What it covers

In this unit, you will critically examine how artificial intelligence and advanced technologies are transforming criminal justice systems in Australia and internationally. You will explore key applications including predictive policing, facial recognition, algorithmic risk assessment, AI-generated police reports, and surveillance technologies, and analyse the ethical, legal, human rights, and social justice implications of their deployment in policing, courts, and corrections. Through Australian and International case studies you will assess how algorithmic decision-making tools can entrench existing inequalities, with particular attention to the disproportionate impacts on First Nations peoples and other marginalised communities. You will engage with regulatory and policy frameworks. A distinctive feature of this unit is a hands-on prototype project in which you will use AI tools to develop a transparent complaint triage system, giving you practical experience in critically evaluating the technologies you study. You will also collaborate on a professional policy brief and oral presentation, building skills in evidence-based policy analysis and communication. Whether you are pursuing a career in policing, law, policy, journalism, human rights, or technology, the ability to critically evaluate AI systems that make high-stakes decisions about people is fast becoming an essential skill. You will build on your existing knowledge to develop the kind of informed, evidence-based perspective that employers, government agencies, and advocacy organisations increasingly seek from graduates.

Assessment

When and where