IN BRIEFThe inquiry is expected to report by mid-2027, with three royal commissioners to be appointed.Premier Peter Malinauskas says unchecked AI poses a material risk to society and the future of work.South Australia has announced it will hold a royal commission into artificial intelligence, with Premier Peter Malinauskas warning the rapidly developing technology poses significant risks if left unchecked.The inquiry is set to to begin in October and report by July next year, with its terms of reference and three royal commissioners to be announced within the next four to six weeks.Malinauskas said the inquiry would examine how governments can maximise the benefits of AI while limiting its potential impacts on society."We are at a really important fork in the road," he said."We can choose to allow this industry to come to our country and evolve in a way that is unregulated and unchecked."News that makes senseYour trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox."Or we can choose to set the agenda … to ensure that we use AI in a way that puts people first."Malinauskas said AI represented an opportunity to advance society but warned it could have significant implications for employment and the future of work.The royal commission is expected to cost about $3 million and will seek evidence from business, industry, unions, technology developers, academics and creative industries.The announcement follows Malinauskas' recent trip to the United States, where he met representatives from major technology companies including OpenAI, Anthropic and Apple.The premier said the inquiry would focus on developing policy solutions across areas including education, industry, public health and the arts.South Australia has previously positioned itself as a leader in technology policy, including through its recent social media reforms.The state government has also recently signed a memorandum of understanding with OpenAI aimed at developing AI skills, supporting innovation and exploring the use of AI in government services.This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.— With additional reporting by AAPFor the latest from SBS News, download our app and subscribe to our newsletter.