Speaking at the Queensland Business Leaders' annual dinner in Brisbane on Monday night, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese urged the state's corporate sector to 'get with the program' on the AI revolution, emphasising the need for a forward-looking mindset rather than defensive pessimism.
'We cannot afford to be prophets of doom,' Albanese told the audience. 'Australia has always prospered by embracing change, not by forecasting the worst-case scenario. We need to be more optimistic.'
The Prime Minister's remarks come amid a broader national conversation about the impacts of artificial intelligence on employment, productivity, and social cohesion. While many business groups have welcomed the push for adoption, unions and some technology experts have raised concerns about job displacement and ethical safeguards.
Albanese acknowledged these concerns but stressed that Australia's economic future depends on active participation in the global AI economy. 'The revolution is happening with or without us. The question is whether Queenslanders will be driving the change or being driven by it,' he said.
Queensland has positioned itself as a growing hub for technology and innovation, with the state government launching its own AI strategy earlier this year. The federal government has also invested in AI research and development, including a $100 million AI adoption fund for small and medium enterprises.
Critics argue that the Prime Minister's optimistic framing may downplay legitimate risks, including potential job losses in sectors like mining and agriculture, which are central to Queensland's economy. However, business leaders at the dinner expressed support for the message, with several noting that a cautious approach could deter investment and talent.
The speech signals the government's desire to set a positive national narrative around AI, as it prepares for the next federal budget and potential election campaigns. Whether that optimism is shared across the broader community remains to be seen.