AADC has confirmed that AI-assisted work will formally be eligible for entry in this year's AADC Awards, with a new disclosure process being introduced to provide transparency around the use of artificial intelligence in creative projects.

The announcement comes ahead of entries opening in July and follows ongoing industry discussion about the role of AI in advertising and design.

Since 1975, the AADC Awards have recognised outstanding creativity and craft across South Australia's advertising and design industry. Throughout that time, new technologies have continually changed how creative work is produced, from digital publishing and photography through to modern production and design tools.

AADC says it views artificial intelligence as the latest evolution of these technologies rather than a replacement for human creativity.

"AI is a powerful tool, but it remains a tool," Corey Swaffer, AADC Co-President said. "Human contribution is still, and always will be, what makes creative work great."

Under the updated approach, entrants will be asked to disclose if and how AI was used in the production of their work, helping judges understand the extent of AI involvement and the reasoning behind its use.

According to AADC, judges will consider whether AI has been used responsibly, purposefully and with sufficient human input when assessing entries.

Co-President, Sarah Luthaus, said, "Work that demonstrates strong creative thinking, direction and craft by human creators will continue to be judged on its merits, no matter the technology used."

The organisation said the changes are intended to ensure the Awards remain relevant as technology evolves while continuing to recognise the people responsible for creating exceptional work.

Entries for the 2026 AADC Awards are due to open in July.