Australian authors are lobbying in Canberra against US Tech companies

The Australian government is facing a difficult choice as US tech companies lobby for copyright exemptions to train AI models. Tech firms are offering to invest up to $50 billion and set up a $350 million fund for artists in exchange for weaker copyright rules, prompting strong resistance from local writers.

Author Anna Funder stated that tech giants have taken her work for profit and called for local creative industries to be protected. Senator David Pocock opposed the proposal, stating: "selling out the interests of Australian creatives would be a negligent act."

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese noted that content use must be compensated. Meanwhile, public opinion remains split. A May 2026 poll showed that 36% of voters view AI as more of a threat than an opportunity, while only 22% view it as a positive development.