Artificial Intelligence Disclosure Statement

Our commitment to human creativity

Opera Australia believes that artistic expression is fundamentally human. As Australia’s largest performing arts employer, we are committed to supporting artists, creative practitioners and the cultural workforce that brings opera, musical theatre and performing arts experiences to life.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is an evolving technology that may assist organisations to improve efficiency and reduce administrative burden. However, Opera Australia recognises that creativity, artistic judgement, interpretation and human connection are at the heart of our work. AI will not replace these qualities.

How Opera Australia uses AI

Opera Australia may use AI tools in limited, low-risk ways to support our people and improve operational efficiency. This may include:

  • Assisting with document review and summarisation.
  • Supporting administrative and transactional tasks.
  • Improving productivity through the automation of routine or repetitive administrative processes.
  • Enhancing accessibility and internal business operations.

All AI-assisted work is subject to human oversight, review and accountability. Opera Australia employees remain responsible for decisions, outputs and professional judgement.

How Opera Australia does not use AI

Opera Australia will not use AI:

  • To generate music, compositions or arrangements for performance.
  • To replace set, costume and props designers
  • To create AI-generated images for use in productions or external publications.
  • To replace composers, arrangers, musicians, singers, conductors, writers, designers, educators or other specialist creative roles.
  • To automate artistic, editorial or curatorial decision-making.

Respect for artists, culture, privacy and intellectual property

Opera Australia respects the rights of creators, cultural communities and individuals. Any use of AI must align with our obligations regarding:

  • Copyright and moral rights.
  • Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP).
  • Cultural ownership and stewardship.
  • Privacy, confidentiality and data protection.
  • Contractual obligations to artists, employees and partners.

We are committed to ensuring that technology is used responsibly, ethically and in ways that support rather than undermine creative practice.

 Our ongoing commitment

Opera Australia is committed to protecting the integrity of our art form and supporting the development of Australian artists. We will continue to thoughtfully assess emerging technologies and ensure any use of AI is consistent with our values, our responsibilities to artists and audiences, and our belief that human creativity remains at the centre of everything we do.