Media Release
Federal Court launch Generative Artificial Intelligence Practice Note
16 April 2026
The Federal Court of Australia is pleased to announce the launch of the Court’s Practice Note on the use of Generative AI.
This Practice Note sets out the Federal Court’s expectations and guidance regarding the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence in connection with proceedings before the Court.
The Practice Note explains what Generative AI is, recognises its potential benefits for efficiency, cost reduction and access to justice, and emphasises that its use must be responsible and consistent with existing legal and professional obligations.
The Practice Note identifies circumstances in which particular caution is required, including the preparation of pleadings, submissions, evidence and dealings with confidential or protected information, and explains when disclosure of the use of Generative AI may be required including where the Court directs this to occur.
In developing its approach, the Court focused on balancing the administration of justice with the responsible adoption of emerging technologies, while maintaining parties’ accountability for all materials that are filed or put before the Court.
In March last year, I announced that the Federal Court was considering the development of Guidelines or a Practice Note concerning the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (Generative AI) in proceedings before the Court, and that the Court would consult widely with litigants and the profession.
In April 2025, I further announced the commencement of that consultation process, aimed at developing guidance that appropriately balances the administration of justice with the responsible use of emerging technologies, while maintaining the integrity of the Court’s processes.
Since these announcements, the Court has embarked on a wide process of consultation with the community, the profession, academics, legal service providers and technology companies.
This has involved reviewing written submissions, as well as conducting meetings and discussions with relevant stakeholders and a period of internal review.
The Court proposes to hold a symposium in the upcoming months to discuss the challenges and benefits likely to arise in FCA proceedings, in the context of the Practice Note and current developments in the use of AI in legal proceedings.
The Court welcomes feedback and will review its Practice Note on a regular basis.
D S Mortimer
Chief Justice
16 April 2026
