Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) has moved rapidly from a niche technological development to a widely recognised and increasingly used tool within Australian society.
This report provides one of the most comprehensive examinations to date of Australians’ familiarity with, use of, and attitudes toward GAI, as well as their expectations for governance and acceptable use. It draws on a nationally representative survey of Australian adults conducted in late 2025, supplemented by targeted interviews with Australian organisations adopting or preparing to adopt GAI systems.
Together, these data provide new insights into how Australians#
- understand and engage with GAI, who is benefiting from its emergence, and where capability, trust, and governance gaps are likely to shape future adoption and policy needs.
Summary of key findings (infographic)#
Key Policy insights#
Invest in national AI capability building and digital inclusion#
Strengthen educational pathways, ensure equitable access across states and regions.
Embed cultural and ethical considerations into national AI governance#
Integrate First Nations data sovereignty principles, and values-led design into AI policy.
Develop standards and education for trustworthy AI#
Prioritise transparency, model reliability, explainability safeguards, as well as guidance and education on appropriate use.
Reinforce human elements#
Policies should recognise that confidence and capability depend on human factors such as identity, narratives, and trust as much as on technical infrastructure.
Support sector-specific AI adaptation and fine-tuning capability#
Enable government, industry, and education sectors to more effectively tailor existing AI models for Australian contexts rather than over-reliance on generic global tools.
Position Australia as a leader in sustainable, values-based AI#
Leaders can leverage regulatory strengths, address sustainability concerns, and facilitate cross-sector collaboration to shape a distinctive national approach.
Authors: Jessica Herrington, Nicholas Biddle, Safiya Okai-Ugbaje and Ellen O’Brien Organisations: ANU School of Cybernetics and ANU School of Politics and International Relations
To learn more about this project contact: Jessica Herrington or Nicholas Biddle
