The use of artificial intelligence in journalism is raising questions about how far the technology should be allowed into modern newsrooms, with a University of Wollongong alumna warning AI should support journalists rather than replace them.
WIN Television National News Director Stella Lauri said AI could be useful for research and background information, but journalists must maintain editorial control.
“We can’t be left behind. The technology is always there, so we have to try and stay a step ahead,” Ms Lauri said.
Ms Lauri said using AI for research purposes could be comparable to modern referencing practices.
She said journalists need to verify AI sources, links, and quotes as rigorously as they would all other information that use in their work.
“If a journalist is using AI for background research and the links are provided, it’s like modern footnoting,” she said.
However, she warned against relying too heavily on AI-generated material in news production.
“Do I want journalists to present a script written to me by AI? No,” Ms Lauri said.
She said journalism still depended on human judgement, creativity and ethical responsibility, particularly when delivering accurate information to the public.
“What you don’t want to do is rely on it for information. There still needs to be a human behind the script and the questions,” she said.
Ms Lauri said journalists had a responsibility to ensure the information they published was credible and properly sourced.
“You are providing the answers to the community and your audiences, so it’s really important that you’re sourcing credible information,” she said.
Her comments reflect broader debate within the media industry as newsrooms adapt to rapidly evolving technology while attempting to maintain public trust and journalistic integrity.
The discussion explored the challenges facing modern journalism as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into the media industry.
