AI opportunity significant, but detail will be critical

Media Release: 15 July 2026

Australian businesses will be looking closely at the detail of the federal government’s proposed AI standards and data centre framework following the Prime Minister’s address in Sydney today.

Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) Chief Executive Officer Andrew McKellar said the Prime Minister’s speech set out an ambitious vision for AI and recognised the significant opportunity it presents for Australia’s economy.

“There is a genuine opportunity for Australia to position itself as a leading destination for AI investment and data centre development in our region, and the Prime Minister has recognised this,” Mr McKellar said.

“However, there are still many significant details that need to be developed, which we will watch closely.

“Businesses will be particularly interested in how the proposed AI standards and governance arrangements are designed, and how the requirements of data centres will work in practice.

“This detail isn’t yet clear, but we look forward to consulting with government on this.”

Mr McKellar said it was critical the federal government doesn’t come down on AI with heavy regulation that would deter investment.

"Australia is competing globally for capital, talent and technology investment,” he said.

"The success of any framework will depend on whether it provides certainty for investors, encourages innovation and helps Australia attract the investment needed to realise the opportunities AI presents.

“AI and data centre development will only succeed in Australia if there is trust in the community. We recognise the government’s efforts to address this issue, but there also must be recognition that we need to make investment as attractive as possible.

“We have already seen the government take multiple approaches to AI — we hope from here on the goalposts won’t be shifted again and we can get on with the job of realising Australia’s ambitions as a leading destination for AI investment."