As artificial intelligence becomes embedded across care, health, and community services, sectors worldwide are grappling with how to adopt these technologies in ways that genuinely uphold dignity, autonomy, and human rights. Scotland has emerged as a global leader in this space—developing ethical frameworks, rights‑based governance models, and sector‑wide guidelines that centre the person, not the technology. 

In this session, Dr Donald Macaskill will share Scotland’s experience in building an ethical and human rights infrastructure for AI that is both practical and deeply values‑driven. Drawing from work across social care, ageing, disability, and national policy contexts, he will explore: 

• Human rights as the foundation for AI decision-making – moving beyond compliance to dignity‑centred design. 
• Ethical oversight models in Scotland – including how providers, technologists, clinicians, and communities collectively shape responsible AI use. 
• Lessons learned from Scottish social care – where relational care, trust, and citizen agency influence how AI is implemented.
• The risks and opportunities AI presents for older people, people with disabilities, and frontline staff.
• What Australia can adapt from Scotland’s approach to ensure AI enhances—not replaces—human connection, judgement, and care. 

This session will provide a thoughtful, international perspective on how aged care systems can innovate boldly while protecting the rights, voice, and lived experience of the people they serve. It will offer practical insights for leaders navigating the intersection of technology, ethics, and care.