Albanese unveils AI plan amid fears over power bills and data centre boom

PM Albanese launches AI policy aiming to create jobs, address risks, and tackle concerns over economic impact and benefits

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has unveiled Australia’s long-awaited AI policy, insisting the goal is to create jobs rather than replace workers.

The plan includes a new AI office tasked with developing proposals and identifying risks as the technology expands across the economy.

Concerns are already emerging over the potential impact on electricity prices, housing development, and whether data centre investments will deliver meaningful economic returns.

The policy also raises questions about who benefits most, how artists are compensated, and whether Australia could become a low-value destination for global AI infrastructure.

Matt Grudnoff from the Australia Institute joins Ticker to break down the PM’s AI strategy, the backlash risks, and what happens if the AI boom fails to live up to expectations.