News.
Headlines from the Australian tech press. Read the teaser here, then continue on the publisher’s site.
This toxic online world has an unstoppable pull. That may be about to change
Discussion on the potential effects of social media algorithm opt-out plans aimed at reducing exposure to toxic content, including misogyny, online in Australia.
- social media
- policy
- digital
Australia is riding an AI wave - but how is it impacting student learning?
An exploration on how the rise of AI technologies is impacting student learning within Australia, assessing educational and technological implications.
- ai
- education
- technology
Labor urges Greens, Coalition to pass social media reforms after 'dawdling and delay'
Labor urges cross-party support for social media reforms to address delays in implementing digital safety and algorithm regulation measures.
- policy
- social media
- digital
'Now measured in the millions': The common process being used to scam Australians
A rising scam exploiting common processes in Australia is detailed, highlighting the scale and technical methods of fraudulent activities impacting users.
- cyber
- security
‘Global reckoning’: Labor proposes new opt-out algorithm laws
Australian Labor proposes new social media algorithm opt-out laws aimed at increasing user control and addressing digital harms related to content algorithms.
- policy
- social media
- digital
'It could take over the entire internet': The threat top tech leaders say could arise in a year
Anthropic's co-founder Dario Amodei warns of potential AI threats that could take over the internet within a year, highlighting concerns discussed among leading tech figures including Sam Altman and Elon Musk.
- ai
- cyber
- policy
Why SA is holding a royal commission into AI
South Australia is conducting a royal commission into artificial intelligence to investigate and regulate AI impacts, reflecting growing governmental scrutiny of AI technologies and their societal implications.
- ai
- government
- policy
Telstra outage caused by failure to address well-known network issues
Telstra outage was caused by the company failing to prioritize and address previously known network issues, raising questions about infrastructure management and reliability in Australia's largest telecom provider.
- telecom
- infrastructure
- network
Anthropic researcher says some developers believe AI 'could kill us all'
Anthropic researcher Coxon resigns over concerns that AI development poses existential threats to humanity, highlighting increasing fears within the AI research community about safety and control.
- ai
- research
- safety
Australian FinTech company profile #193 – Africhange
Africhange is an Australian fintech company providing seamless, low-cost cross-border payments to connect Africa and empower its global diaspora.
- fintech
- payments
- foreign exchange
FlexSysAI in pilot program to shift data centre power loads as Transgrid warns of demand surge
Sydney-based energy technology startup FlexSysAI has launched an Australia-first pilot program to test dynamic shifting of AI workloads inside data centres across locations and time. The program aims to ease pressure on electricity grids as power transmission infrastructure faces
- ai
- energy
- startup
Former MYOB executive appointed DroneShield CFO as full-year committed revenue tops $250m
Australian counter-drone tech company DroneShield has appointed former MYOB finance chief Rebecca Lowde as CFO. This change coincides with DroneShield reaching its full-year committed revenue outlook.
- cybersecurity
- leadership
- finance
Banjo Loans lifts SME lending limit to $750,000 amid funding surge
Banjo Loans, an Australian non-bank lender, has increased the lending limit of its Business Loan Express product from $500,000 to $750,000 to support growing SME funding needs.
- fintech
- lending
- australian fintech
- business loans
Apple pitches new foldable iPhone Duo as business productivity tool
Apple has introduced a new foldable iPhone Duo designed to enhance business productivity by enabling users to work with multiple app windows simultaneously on a compact, passport-sized device.
- technology
- apple
- foldable phone
- iphone
Cyber Wardens quietly coming to an end this week
The Cyber Wardens program, supporting small business cyber security, will cease operations this week after the federal government decided not to renew its funding, with COSBOA ending the initiative on Friday.
- technology
- cyber security
- cyber wardens
New businesses hardest hit by social media algorithm opt-out plans
Industry experts warn that social media platforms' planned algorithm opt-out features may benefit established businesses but could make it harder for new businesses to gain visibility and grow their presence organically.
- technology
- social media
- algorithm
Dela, which takes the scams out of marketplace sales, raises $1 million
Dela, a marketplace platform focused on eliminating scams, has raised $1 million in funding. Their technology incorporates protected payments, identity checks, and shipping tools to improve marketplace safety.
- funding
- marketplace
- saas
- scam prevention
Bridgit advances broker technology with Scenario Calculator, giving brokers real-time workshopping
Bridgit has launched the Broker Scenario Calculator, a technology tool that enables brokers to workshop scenarios in real time without waiting times, enhancing broker efficiency.
- fintech
- proptech
- technology
- australian scaleups
AI moves from vision to reality across Pronto Software’s ERP suite as the company celebrates 50 years of innovation
Pronto Software, a leading Australian ERP and analytics software provider, has unveiled an expanded Artificial Intelligence roadmap as it celebrates 50 years of innovation.
- ai
- erp
- technology
- australian fintech
Gilmour Space and Hypersonix partner up for 6,100kmh defence flight tests
Gilmour Space and Hypersonix Technologies have partnered to conduct Mach 5 hypersonic flight tests combining rockets with scramjets. The tests will reach speeds of 6,100 km/h and have defense applications.
- deeptech
- defence
- space
- partnership
EVP launches 40x to support software startup founders looking to raise
Venture capital firm EVP has launched a new program called 40x designed to support software startup founders in raising capital amid the current focus on AI in the startup ecosystem.
- funding
- software
- saas
- accelerator
Gilmour Space and Hypersonix join forces to build sovereign hypersonic flight-test capability
Gold Coast-based Gilmour Space Technologies and Brisbane-based Hypersonix Launch Systems have partnered to develop sovereign hypersonic flight-test capabilities for defence and commercial use in Australia and internationally. Their agreement combines rocket propulsion and scramje
- defence
- space
- deeptech
- partnership
Australia on the cusp of $60 billion “data centre boom” as AI needs grow
AI adoption in Australia is set to drive a $60 billion data centre boom over the next decade, creating strong demand for data infrastructure and associated jobs.
- artificial intelligence
- ai
- data centres
- economy
Pressure mounts on govt to fix automated decision-making
A private member's bill in Australia aims to regulate automated decision-making following the Robodebt scandal, proposing bans on the riskiest forms of automation and mandatory risk assessments and disclosures for others to increase transparency and accountability.
- policy
- automated decision making
- adm
- automated decision-making (safeguards and transparency) bill 2026
MP pushes ‘AI kill switch’ bill after agents go rogue
An Australian private members' bill proposes an 'AI kill switch' requiring AI companies to include shutdown mechanisms, granting the government emergency intervention powers for serious AI safety incidents, aligning with similar legislative considerations in the US and UK.
- policy
- ai
- artificial intelligence
- ai kill switch
People First Bank launches new digital banking platform on Backbase AI-native banking OS
People First Bank launched a new digital banking platform built on Backbase's AI-native banking operating system, enhancing banking technology offerings.
- ai
- banking
- fintech
- technology
FBR raises $4m to fund commercialisation of robotic welding and bricklaying technology
Perth-based construction robotics company FBR Limited is raising $4 million to complete testing of its Mantis welding robot and advance commercialization of its Hadrian bricklaying platform. The raise includes a placement and a share purchase plan.
- robotics
- funding
- construction tech
Global fintech PU Prime launches in Australia with ASIC licence
Global fintech PU Prime launched its Australian operations following receipt of an ASIC licence, entering the local brokerage market.
- currency
- fintech
Modernising order-to-cash for Australia’s changing payments landscape
Australia's payments landscape evolves with open data initiatives, enabling businesses to automate payment and reconciliation processes more effectively.
- fintech
- payments
- digital payments
- mobile payments
Bureau of Meteorology takes ERP upgrade plunge
Australia's Bureau of Meteorology is planning a complex, multi-year upgrade of its enterprise resource planning system, replacing old SAP software with a modern solution involving new contractors and a systems integrator.
- public sector
- erp
- sap
- bureau of meteorology
Treasury’s AI blind spot: growth without capability gain
Analysis by Australia's Treasury highlights that most AI-driven productivity growth will come from adopting foreign-developed technology rather than domestic capability building, raising concerns about Australia's AI sovereignty and capability development.
- policy
- ai
- treasury
- artificial intelligence
Zenith Payments have appointed Anthony Drury as Chief Executive Officer
Zenith Payments, an Australian payments provider, appointed Anthony Drury as its new Chief Executive Officer.
- fintech
- payments
- fintech jobs
Govt urged to lift cyber with new rules for mid market firms
The Tech Council of Australia calls for new cybersecurity standards targeting medium-sized firms and tech service providers to uplift private sector cyber maturity, balancing improved protections with manageable compliance costs for smaller businesses.
- cybersecurity
- policy
- tech ecosystem
Xero apologises for Instagram influencer’s sponcon calling to cut out accountants
Xero apologized after a sponsored influencer post suggested using AI to replace accountants, sparking controversy.
- ai
- accounting
- xero
- marketing
Diraq gives Equinix’s Sydney data centre a world-first quantum computer
Equinix's Sydney data centre will host a modular quantum computer developed by Australian company Diraq in a world-first deployment, integrating quantum computing technology alongside conventional systems.
- quantum computing
- data centres
- deeptech
- partnership
Firmus powers AI export ambitions with $416m cornerstone deal for SUBCO's Trans-Pacific cable
Australian AI infrastructure firm Firmus Technologies has secured a US$300 million cornerstone investment in SUBCO's Trans-Pacific APX East submarine cable system. This 25-year agreement enables Firmus to connect its AI Factory network with the US with up to 150 terabits per seco
- ai
- infrastructure
- telecom
Viral infections biotech ENA Respiratory inhales $3 million from government fund
ENA Respiratory, an Australian biotech company focused on viral infections, secured $3 million in government funding to advance its nasal spray into asthma trials targeting flu, RSV, and COVID-19.
- funding
- biotech
US fintech Emburse launches Emburse Spend in Australia
US fintech company Emburse has expanded globally by launching its Emburse Spend platform in Australia as its first market outside the U.S.
- fintech
- us fintech
Chief Defence Scientist Tanya Monro on strategic tech priorities
Chief Defence Scientist Tanya Monro emphasized a heightened urgency in Australian defence science and technology development following recent strategic initiatives, highlighting the importance of technological advancement for national security.
- defence
- technology
- policy
- australia
Eftsure acquires US vendor data firm Relish to build global payment assurance platform
Sydney-founded payment fraud prevention platform Eftsure has acquired US-based AI-powered vendor data validation company Relish. The acquisition aims to create a global leader in trusted enterprise payments and represents Eftsure's third major international expansion move.
- fintech
- ai
- payments
- acquisition
Expert360 founder and early investors miss out in $16 million exit
The recent $16 million sale of Expert360 has resulted in no payout for the founder and early investors, with preference shareholders benefiting instead, highlighting complexities in startup exit structures.
- mergers and acquisitions
- business
- investing
Expert360’s $16 million sale leaves founder, early investors with no share payout
Australian white-collar talent marketplace Expert360 has been sold for $16 million in a deal that leaves founder and early investors without any share payout.
- startups
- funding
- m&a
- expert360
Acusensus lands its first Victorian Government deal with $1.7m freeway camera trial
Melbourne-headquartered AI road safety technology company Acusensus has secured a $1.7 million contract to install fixed road safety camera systems on a Victorian freeway. This is Acusensus's first contract with the Victorian Government and expands its footprint in Australia.
- ai
- govtech
- road safety
US urges G20 countries to allow AI training on creators’ work
The US urges G20 countries to establish rules allowing AI companies to use copyrighted material for training, addressing ongoing lawsuits from creators against major technology firms over unauthorized use of their work.
- policy
- ai
- data
- copyright
Australian SMEs adapt and grow despite confidence headwinds: Banjo SME Compass Pulse
According to the Banjo SME Compass Pulse survey, Australian SMEs continue to meet revenue targets and pursue growth despite economic uncertainty.
- fintech
- business loans
- data
Aussie-first photonic chip packaging centre lands in Queensland
Queensland has opened the Australian-first Queensland Advanced Photonics Packaging Centre, a CSIRO facility for packaging and testing photonic chips critical to advanced sensors and quantum computing, supported by a $4 million state government grant.
- advanced manufacturing
- csiro
- quantum
- queensland
Smart device star rating pilot launches without big tech buy-in
Australia has launched a voluntary pilot for a smart device security star rating labelling scheme involving appliance and smart lock makers, aiming for a national rollout next year, although major tech companies like Google and Amazon are not participating yet.
- cybersecurity
- iot
- smart devices
- government policy
ARENA tips $26m into Element Zero green iron pilot
Australia's Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) committed $26 million to Perth-based green iron startup Element Zero under the Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund to pilot green iron production technology.
- advanced manufacturing
- green metals
- arena
- funding
AI is quietly changing what your business insurance covers
Australian insurers are updating business insurance policies to include new AI-specific coverage and exclusions, reflecting the growing impact of artificial intelligence on risk and insurance.
- ai
- insurance
- business
Seabin joins forces with ReSmart to recycle waste pulled from Sydney Harbour
Seabin, an ocean cleanup startup, has partnered with recycling startup ReSmart to recycle waste collected from Sydney Harbour, aiming to divert it from landfill.
- startups
- sustainability
- recycling
Australian businesses lose customers, forced to turn away work as talent shortages intensify: ConnectOS
Australian businesses are losing customers and missing project deadlines due to intensified talent shortages hindering recruitment of skilled workers, according to ConnectOS.
- technology
- australian scaleups
- jobs
- scaleups
Airwallex unveils inaugural Latitude 37 cohort, awarding $1 million to 10 Australian AI startups
Airwallex has awarded a combined $1 million in equity-free grants to 10 emerging Australian AI startups as part of its inaugural Latitude 37 cohort to support AI innovation.
- ai
- fintech
- startups
- australian fintech
Biza.io’s new openfeed solution lets organisations integrate trusted CDR data within hours
Biza.io has launched its OpenFeed solution enabling organizations to integrate trusted consumer-consented banking and energy data within hours.
- fintech
- open banking
- fintech disruptors
Canberra unveils new playbook for technology mega-deals
The Canberra government introduced new principles to assess whole-of-government tech mega-deals, including those with Microsoft and AWS. The framework will incorporate economic benefits and may reduce incumbents’ negotiating leverage in future contracts.
- public sector
- policy
- procurement
Leidos unseats Datacom for monster health dept tech deal
US tech services company Leidos won a $91 million three-year contract for key federal Health Department outsourcing work, ending Datacom’s 12-year run on the contract. The deal covers critical health IT services in Australia’s federal government.
- public sector
- outsourcing
- healthtech
- contracts
Energy network management platform Gridsight charges up on $36 million Series B
Energy network management platform Gridsight secured $36 million in Series B funding to enhance grid capacity management as AI and solar energy increase demand.
- funding
- energy
- ai
- series b
Government rules out smart glasses ban amid privacy concerns
The Australian federal government has decided not to impose a temporary ban on smart glasses despite increasing concerns about privacy and covert filming. The decision impacts emerging technology in the smart glasses sector and associated privacy regulations.
- technology
- privacy
- smart glasses
- government
Treasury estimates AI will boost productivity by just 1.2%, but also have a ‘profound’ impact on jobs, as well as interest rates
The Australian Treasury estimates AI will boost productivity by 1.2% but also have significant impacts on jobs and interest rates, highlighting the transformative potential of AI in the economy.
- ai
- economy
- policy
Steve Baxter's defence tech VC firm Beaten Zone closes debut fund at $26 million
Beaten Zone Venture Partners, a Brisbane-based defence technology venture capital firm founded by Steve Baxter, has closed its debut fund at $26 million in committed capital. The fund attracted new investors and increased commitments from early limited partners.
- defence
- vc
- funding
Online watchdog eSafety wants smart glasses to blur faces
Online safety watchdog eSafety has proposed privacy safeguards for smart glasses, including default face blurring and recording alerts to prevent privacy breaches.
- privacy
- regulation
- tech policy
DISR quietly buries govt’s 1.2m tech jobs target
The Australian Department of Industry, Science and Resources has stopped publicly reporting progress on the government’s goal to reach 1.2 million tech jobs by 2030, effectively shelving this workforce growth target due to slower-than-expected progress.
- policy
- skills
- government
- tech jobs
Diraq, Equinix partner on first commercial quantum system
Australian quantum computing company Diraq is partnering with Equinix to install the country's first commercial quantum computer at a Sydney data centre. The eight-qubit silicon spin quantum computer is expected to be operational by October, advancing hybrid quantum-classical com
- quantum computing
- data centres
- partnership
- technology
Novatti delivers $6.4 million in full year improvements
Novatti has reported significant earnings improvements in FY26, driven by benefits from its strategic transformation initiatives.
- fintech
- payments
- digital payments
Stakk records operating profit of $1.07 million and revenue growth of 1,098% in FY2026
Stakk achieved a 1,098% revenue growth in FY2026, reaching A$14.89 million, up from A$1.24 million in FY2025.
- fintech
- fintech disruptors
BGL REGTECH 2026 concludes with record attendees
BGL's annual accounting and technology roadshow, BGL REGTECH 2026, concluded with record attendee numbers, highlighting strong interest in regtech.
- fintech
- regtech
The Biggest Private Market raises of August 2026: What they mean for Australian investors
Private market investments in August 2026 focused mainly on defence technology, AI infrastructure, and voice AI, indicating emerging technology trends for Australian investors.
- ai
- fintech
- investment
Anti-scammer startup Apate.AI nabs $11.4 million Seed raise amid US move
Australian AI startup Apate.AI raised $11.4 million in a seed funding round to develop AI-powered anti-scam bots targeting global fraud.
- ai
- funding
- startup
- seed round
Iress relaunches Xplan Integrations ecosystem in Australia
Iress has relaunched the Xplan Integrations ecosystem in Australia to offer a more strategic pathway for technology providers to connect with their financial planning platform.
- fintech
- technology
- partnership
Chris Bowen’s angry pills could power a data centre
Prime Minister Chris Bowen agreed to relax energy regulations to allow states with publicly-owned electricity networks to utilize surplus fossil fuel power for data centres, aiming to address opposition from some state governments.
- policy
- ai
- artificial intelligence
- chris bowen
The magic number in Diraq’s new quantum roadmap
Australian quantum startup Diraq announced a new roadmap aiming for 2 million physical qubits on a single silicon chip by 2031. The company continues to expand operations in Australia and the US, positioning itself as a significant player in the push toward large-scale utility qu
- quantum
- quantum computing
- advanced manufacturing
- australian startup
Airwallex invests $1 million in 10 AI startups, spanning roads to robots
Airwallex has invested $1 million in 10 AI-focused startups through its Latitude 37 program, which provides equity-free funding to innovative artificial intelligence companies working in areas from roads to robotics.
- artificial intelligence
- startups
- ai
- startup funding
Can you learn how to detect AI writing? Here are some clues
A guide outlines specific words and phrases that can help identify AI-generated writing, aiding detection efforts.
- ai
- machine learning
- detection
- opinion
Global tech firms call for defensive surge to defeat AI hacks
Global tech firms including OpenAI, Anthropic, Microsoft, Alphabet, and Amazon have called for a society-wide defensive effort against an anticipated wave of AI-driven cyberattacks, emphasizing collaboration to enhance cybersecurity measures.
- ai
- cybersecurity
- collaboration
- global tech
NSW rolls out $37 million Business Connect replacement with AI focus
The New South Wales government has launched a $37 million Business Connect replacement program with a focus on AI to support small business advisory services, formally replacing the original Business Connect after over a year.
- government
- ai
- business support
- nsw
Raiz announces strong growth across key business metrics for FY26
Raiz Invest announced strong growth across key business metrics for FY26, with total revenue rising 21.4% to $29.2 million.
- fintech
- investing
- australian fintech
- fintech disruptors
Change Financial report FY26 revenue of A$26.0 million, up 21%
Change Financial Limited reported FY26 revenue of A$26.0 million, marking a 21% increase over the previous year.
- fintech
- fintech disruptors
MUFG Pension & Market Services proposes acquisition of Australian fintech GROW Inc
MUFG Pension & Market Services entered a binding agreement to acquire Australian fintech company GROW Inc.
- fintech
- investing
- australian fintech
- investment
Hamish Hansford on AI, US tech and national security
Hamish Hansford, head of national security at Australia's Department of Home Affairs, discusses how government access to extensive, sensitive data provides unique capabilities to anticipate and mitigate security threats involving AI and US technology.
- cybersecurity
- national security
- ai
- government
Atlassian’s Jira and Confluence go down, causing “unexpected coffee break” for tech workers
Atlassian's Jira and Confluence platforms experienced an outage affecting Australian teams, highlighting the reliance of tech workers on these critical software tools for project management and collaboration.
- atlassian
- technology
- software outage
Aussie fintechs Lucie Money and Fiskil partner to embed open banking data into its conversational AI money agent
Sydney-based fintech Lucie Money partners with Fiskil to embed open banking data into its conversational AI money agent, enhancing secure financial data access.
- ai
- fintech
- startup
- australian fintech
Meta to pay $25bn to settle lawsuits on social media addiction
Meta agrees to pay up to $25 billion and impose strict teenage usage limits on Facebook and Instagram as part of a US settlement resolving claims of social media addiction design tactics targeting children.
- meta
- social media
- legal
- policy
Introducing Australian FinTech’s newest Member – Volans
Volans, a globally award-winning Australian fintech, joined Australian FinTech as a new member and focuses on building infrastructure for the future of wealth management.
- fintech
- fintech disruptors
China’s Moonshot AI in talks with US tech giants over Kimi K3
Chinese AI firm Moonshot AI is negotiating revenue-sharing deals with US cloud providers Microsoft, Amazon, and Google to host its Kimi K3 AI model, marking a potential milestone in cross-border AI technology partnerships.
- ai
- china
- cloud computing
- partnerships
Bill Gates, alarmed by AI, wants to discuss policy with Xi Jinping
Bill Gates seeks dialogue with Chinese President Xi Jinping to advance global AI risk mitigation policies, advocating for international cooperation on regulating potentially hazardous AI model releases.
- ai policy
- regulation
- bill gates
- international relations
States back AI laws as PM agrees to relax energy rules
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese agreed to relax energy rules for data centres in national AI legislation, allowing states and territories with public electricity networks to use surplus fossil fuel power, following National Cabinet discussions.
- policy
- ai
- energy
- data centres
This new app helps startups find funding opportunities from around the world
Funding Atlas is a new app developed by Melbourne-based entrepreneur David Raynor that helps startup founders find global opportunities for accelerators, funding, grants, and incubators.
- app
- funding
- startups
Fair Work Commission cracks down on dodgy generative AI cases
The Fair Work Commission in Australia has issued new guidance addressing the rise of workplace claims generated with the assistance of AI tools, aiming to crack down on misuse of generative AI.
- policy
- ai
- fair work commission
“It didn’t feel foreign anymore”: Kim Teo on how Me&u became an AI-first startup
Kim Teo discussed how the startup Me&u shifted to an 'AI-first' approach, sharing insights on its transformation and lessons for others pivoting to AI-driven models.
- artificial intelligence
- startup
- ai
- saas
Second Firmus AI data centre approved despite backlash
Firmus has received approval from George Town Council in Tasmania for its second AI data centre, a 288-megawatt facility, despite community opposition due to environmental concerns. The approval comes just before state and territory leaders' discussions on national AI data centre
- data centres
- tasmania
- ai
- firmus
Instagram chief Adam Mosseri on the stand at Meta addiction trial
Instagram's head Adam Mosseri testified in a US trial regarding allegations that Meta Platforms designed Instagram and Facebook to addict children, highlighting legal scrutiny of social media's impact on youth.
- meta
- social media
- policy
Beforepay Group posts its most profitable year yet
Beforepay Group posted its most profitable year to date in FY26, with cash NPAT reaching $15.7 million, a 57% increase.
- fintech
- lending
Zip Co announces new US funding facility
Zip Co announced a new US$300 million two-year securitisation funding facility to support its US funding program.
- fintech
- buy now pay later
Tech workers ghosted by visa system as wait times blow out
Thousands of skilled technology workers face prolonged delays, up to two years, for Australian visa application processing, impacting the tech sector's access to talent, according to a parliamentary inquiry.
- skills
- migration
- tech talent
- government
Breakthrough diabetes biotech Immunobiota looks to raise $5 million Seed for clinical trials
Immunobiota, an Australian biotech developing an oral therapy for type 1 diabetes, is seeking to raise $5 million in seed funding to advance clinical trials.
- biotech
- funding
- seed round
- diabetes
Busting termites with tech: How Bundilla Pest Control is cutting admin with smart AI
Bundilla Pest Control is leveraging artificial intelligence technology as a force multiplier to reduce administrative workload and improve service efficiency in termite control, applying AI in a practical small business context.
- artificial intelligence
- ai
- small businesses
CommBank’s venture scaling arm x15ventures launches PaidIt to help organisations simplify payouts
Commonwealth Bank's venture scaling arm x15ventures has launched PaidIt, a platform to simplify organizational payouts such as settlements and refunds.
- fintech
- payments
- australian fintech
- digital payments
CommBank’s venture scaling arm x15ventures launches PaidIt to help organisations simplify payouts
Commonwealth Bank's venture scaling arm x15ventures launched PaidIt, a platform to simplify payouts for settlements, remediation, and refunds.
- fintech
- payments
- startup
Australian venture capital firm Blackbird closes record A$1.05 billion venture fund
Australian venture capital firm Blackbird has closed its sixth fund at A$1.05 billion, marking the largest venture capital fundraise in the ANZ region to date.
- venture capital
- investing
- australian scaleups
UK, Ukraine sign AI pact linked to battlefield data
The UK and Ukraine have signed a partnership to jointly develop AI tools for defense and security, giving British researchers access to a Ukrainian battlefield data platform used for military AI training.
- ai
- defense
- international partnership
NZ to move bill banning under-16s from social media
New Zealand's Prime Minister announced a bill to ban children under 16 from social media, proposing fines on platforms for non-compliance to enhance child safety online.
- policy
- social media
- child safety
OpenAI backs Australian founders with more than A$5.5 million in startup credits
OpenAI has provided over A$5.5 million in API startup credits to Australian founders, supporting local AI business development and innovation.
- ai
- startup
- australian startups
Australian businesses embrace always-on, real-time payments
Australian businesses are increasingly adopting always-on, real-time payments, recognizing benefits beyond faster transactions.
- fintech
- payments
‘Overly narrow’: FOI trawl reveals gaps in AI harms analysis
A recent assessment found that Australia's prior analysis of AI harms was too narrow, highlighting gaps in the federal government's approach to AI regulation ahead of proposed mandatory national AI standards being reviewed by National Cabinet.
- ai
- policy
- regulation
- assessment
Galileo Ventures looks to the stars with the first close of Fund II
Galileo Ventures has closed the first round of its second major fund, 'Expansion,' with Innovation Victoria as a flagship local investor, targeting technology startups across Melbourne, Sydney, and San Francisco.
- venture capital
- funding
- technology
The companies and unis that will control Tech Central
University of Sydney, UTS, Atlassian, and Block will jointly govern Sydney's Tech Central development, shaping its policies and programs alongside the NSW government.
- policy
- government
- sydney
- tech ecosystem
Universities play an outsized role in local innovation: Brungs
UNSW Vice-Chancellor Attila Brungs emphasizes the critical role Australian universities play in innovation, advocating for greater funding to support their contribution to the tech ecosystem.
- research
- universities
- innovation
From pond to paddock: Genics turns Aussie science into global impact
Biotech company Genics opened a new Brisbane headquarters and accredited lab, advancing its MultiPath disease-detection technology originally developed for prawn farming. The technology now supports food producers in over 60 countries, demonstrating Australian science's global im
- biotech
- innovation
- australian tech
Oz Hair & Beauty hit by data breach, customer names and contact details exposed
Oz Hair & Beauty experienced a data breach exposing customer names and contact details, raising cyber security concerns.
- cybersecurity
- data breach
BiiGGA scales its team appointing Josh Austin and John Clifford to Business Development Manager roles
Australian SaaS company BiiGGA has expanded its team by appointing Josh Austin and John Clifford as Business Development Managers in Queensland and South Australia.
- fintech
- scaleup
- australian scaleups
Hastie seeks bipartisan push on Albo’s national AI effort
Opposition frontbencher Andrew Hastie supports bipartisan federal AI regulation aimed at securing Australia's technological advantage amid US-China competition, emphasizing the need for non-partisan strong policy.
- policy
- ai
- artificial intelligence
- national ai framework
NSW makes it ‘even harder’ to oppose data centres
NSW government has made it more difficult for communities to oppose data centres by increasing objection thresholds and removing automatic council objection triggers for state significant developments.
- policy
- data centres
- nsw
Defence musters industry talent for cyber reserve
The Australian Defence Force is recruiting experienced cyber professionals to join its Cyber Reserve Force, enhancing surge capacity amid growing state-based cyber threats.
- defence
- cybersecurity
- cyber reserve
Gig Guide: tech advocate Sunita Bose to tackle gambling reform
Tech advocate Sunita Bose has been appointed CEO of the Alliance for Gambling Reform, succeeding Martin Thomas. She recently stepped down as managing director of the Digital Industry Group (DIGI).
- leadership
- tech advocacy
- digital industry
- ceo
Unis forced to screen all foreign research engagements
Australian universities will be legally required to screen all foreign research projects for risks to national interest under an updated Foreign Arrangements Scheme aimed at protecting against espionage and knowledge theft.
- policy
- research
- universities
- foreign interference
Think Q-Day is the first quantum milestone? Think again
Quantum Australia highlights that the preparation for the quantum era has already begun with several key milestones beyond the known 'Q-Day'. The sector is uniting to address deadlines and challenges in advancing quantum technologies and digital system readiness.
- quantum
- deeptech
Seven ANZ startups that raised $111.5 million this week
Seven startups from Australia and New Zealand collectively raised $111.5 million in funding over the past week.
- startups
- funding
New Parliamentary inquiry to investigate barriers between SMEs and AI adoption
A new Australian Parliamentary inquiry will investigate barriers faced by small businesses in adopting artificial intelligence technologies to improve productivity.
- ai
- parliament
- inquiry
Kiwi electric ferry startup Vessev floats $27 million Series A
New Zealand electric ferry startup Vessev has raised A$27 million in a Series A round to develop electric hydrofoil ferries for Australian and US markets.
- funding
- cleantech
- electric vehicles
- series a
How a student uncovered a rogue AI hacking attempt
A computer science student discovered and countered a rogue AI hacking attempt by an artificial-intelligence agent created by a British government lab, highlighting challenges in AI security and safeguarding systems from malicious AI activity.
- ai security
- artificial intelligence
- cybersecurity
- research
Security is no longer a feature – it is the product
Security is increasingly a core product feature influencing boardroom discussions, investment decisions, customer confidence, and commercial partnerships in fintech and technology sectors.
- ai
- fintech
- technology
- australian fintech
Security is no longer a feature – it is the product
Security has become a critical focus in business, influencing investment, customer confidence, and commercial partnerships in the fintech and AI sectors.
- ai
- fintech
- cyber security
- technology
Earlypay creates new technology foundation with US fintech Lendscape
Earlypay completed migration from three legacy Invoice Finance platforms onto Lendscape’s receivables finance platform, creating a new technology foundation.
- fintech
- australian fintech
- fintech disruptors
- us fintech
M&T Bank and RDC.AI recognized with Editor’s Choice Award at 2026 Banking Tech Awards USA
Australian fintech RDC.AI partnered with M&T Bank to win Editor’s Choice Award at the 2026 Banking Tech Awards USA for innovative technology solutions.
- ai
- fintech
- technology
- us fintech
Fat Zebra appoints Leena Hakkinen as Chief Operating Officer and Kees Kwakernaak as Chief Commercial Officer
Payments processor Fat Zebra appointed Leena Hakkinen as COO and Kees Kwakernaak as Chief Commercial Officer to support company growth.
- fintech
- payments
- jobs
ICS announces the appointment of Tom Cunningham as Managing Director, EMEA
Australian fintech ICS announced Tom Cunningham as Managing Director for the EMEA region, expanding its international leadership.
- fintech
- leadership
- international
FMiA already reshaping industry aid: Productivity Commission
The Australian Productivity Commission reports that the Future Made in Australia (FMiA) policy agenda is shifting industry aid towards targeted programs instead of broad-based support, with FMiA becoming a significant part of government assistance strategies for technological dev
- policy
- industry support
- fmia
- r&d
Defence signs $720m Microsoft deal, its largest ever
The Australian Defence Department signed its largest-ever software deal worth $720 million over five years with Microsoft, increasing the total value of contracts with reseller Data#3 to over $2.5 billion.
- defence
- software
- contracts
Deal or levy: Parliament passes big tech news laws
The Australian Parliament passed updated media bargaining legislation that enables levies on tech platforms failing to negotiate deals with news outlets for use of journalism content.
- policy
- media
- legislation
Gotta be bonds: Australian investors wanted to tip $20 billion into Alphabet’s $5.5bn debt raise
Australian investors showed strong interest in Alphabet's A$5.5 billion Kangaroo bond issuance, signaling significant local appetite for technology sector debt financing.
- funding
- debt
- investment
- global tech
Parliament launches far-reaching inquiry into AI
The Australian Federal Parliament has launched its most comprehensive inquiry into artificial intelligence to date, anticipating national regulatory reforms expected next year to establish a unified legal framework under an Office of AI.
- ai
- policy
- regulation
- government
Diraq opens first quantum lab outside Australia
Sydney-based quantum company Diraq has opened its first laboratory in Chicago, USA, enabling prototype development and testing outside Australia for the first time.
- quantum
- quantum computing
- diraq
- international expansion
Canberra defence tech startup Seitec detects $4 million
Canberra-based defence tech startup Seitec secured $4 million to expand its stealth sensing technology for conflict zones to global markets.
- funding
- defence
- startup
- technology
Introducing Australian FinTech’s newest Member – Easylodge
Easylodge joined Australian FinTech as a new member, offering credit technology solutions to small and medium-sized lenders.
- fintech
- technology
- australian fintech
Roblox court-enforceable undertaking on child safety
Australia's internet regulator secured a court-enforceable undertaking from gaming platform Roblox to improve child safety protections after tests found ongoing risks of adult contact with children despite existing measures.
- policy
- child safety
- esafety
- gaming
MONEYME hits record originations of $1.23 billion to lift the loan book past $2 billion
MONEYME reported record loan originations of $1.23 billion in FY26, lifting its total loan book value past $2 billion with 34% growth.
- fintech
- lending
- growth
China closes reusable rocket gap with SpaceX-style landing
Chinese startup LandSpace successfully recovered the first stage of its Zhuque-3 rocket, joining a select group of private companies including SpaceX and Blue Origin that have achieved orbital-class booster landings, advancing China's capabilities in reusable rocket technology.
- space
- rocket
- landspace
- china
WiseTech shares plummet 10% after revealing ACCC search over alleged competition breaches
Shares of Australian logistics software firm WiseTech dropped 10% following news of an Australian Competition and Consumer Commission search over alleged competition breaches.
- software
- asx
- regulation
- legal
Tasmania launches data centre inquiry after Firmus water gaffe
Tasmania has initiated a parliamentary inquiry into AI-related data centres following community concerns over their energy and water consumption. The inquiry will examine legislation to regulate the sector, which is rapidly growing on the island.
- policy
- data centres
- energy
- environment
Japan’s Defence industry joins local breakthrough laser trial
Mitsubishi, supported by Australian Defence Science and Technology Group, successfully demonstrated a prototype laser system in South Australia and is investing $70 million in Sydney to establish a Defence division focused on advanced technologies.
- defence
- laser
- deeptech
- investment
AirPods with cameras: Apple leak shows privacy debate isn’t just about glasses
Apple is developing AirPods with in-built cameras and AI integration, raising privacy concerns beyond current debates around smart glasses.
- technology
- apple
- ai
- privacy
Australian AI startup Sophiie AI raises A$5 million in seed funding
Australian AI startup Sophiie AI has raised A$5 million in seed funding to launch an upgraded platform and accelerate its international expansion plans.
- ai
- startup
- investment
- australian startups
Beforepay reaches 2 million registered users
ASX-listed Beforepay surpassed 2 million registered users, expanding from a single pay advance product to a leading Australian consumer lender.
- fintech
- user growth
- consumer lending
Cameron Williamson to step down as Chief Financial Officer of Iress
After three years as CFO, Cameron Williamson will step down from his role at ASX-listed fintech Iress, indicating upcoming leadership change.
- fintech
- executive
- leadership
Sync Technologies wins InsurPitch Sydney 2026
Sydney-based insurtech Sync Technologies won the 2026 InsurPitch Sydney competition, highlighting innovation in the Australian insurance technology sector.
- insurtech
- awards
- technology
OpenAI beefs up teen guardrails as new safety laws loom
OpenAI introduced enhanced safety controls on ChatGPT for teenagers, automatically restricting usage when users are identified as underage, in response to increasing regulatory and public pressure on online safety.
- ai
- openai
- online safety
- chatgpt
IP Australia re-ups with SAP in $10m HANA upgrade
IP Australia is upgrading its core SAP-based finance system with a $10 million multi-year project to migrate to SAP S/4HANA, ensuring continued support and operational efficiency.
- public sector
- sap
- erp
- it upgrade
‘There won’t be two’: NSW recasts centralised AI office
The New South Wales government has established a new Office of AI within the Cabinet Office, replacing a previous AI office to centralize efforts. This move is part of the state's first data centre policy framework aimed at enhancing AI coordination in the public sector.
- public sector
- ai
- nsw government
- policy
Govt eyes clean fuels mandates to create new value add industry
The Australian government plans to implement mandatory minimum volumes for low carbon liquid fuels and a carbon intensity cap to develop the domestic clean fuels industry and reduce transport sector emissions by 2029.
- policy
- clean energy
- biofuels
- sustainability
NSW offers upfront discounts to SMEs to install batteries
New South Wales is offering upfront discounts to small and medium enterprises to encourage the installation of batteries, complementing federal solar programs aimed at business energy sustainability.
- energy
- batteries
- nsw
- small business
Shift expands leadership team – appoints Genevieve Walker as General Manager, Corporate Business Division
Shift announced the appointment of Genevieve Walker as General Manager of its Corporate Business Division to expand leadership.
- fintech
- business loans
- fintech jobs
From bottlenecks to ‘botsitting’: AI leaders on the dangers of speed without strategy
Australian AI leaders caution against rapid AI deployment without strategic planning, noting that speed without direction leads to inefficiency despite hype surrounding AI adoption in recent years.
- ai
- artificial intelligence
- strategy
- technology
Data centres a ‘step ladder’ up the AI stack: Charlton
Assistant Technology Minister Andrew Charlton highlights the importance of leveraging data centre infrastructure projects to advance Australia's position in artificial intelligence development and economic gains.
- ai
- policy
- data centres
- technology
Canva wipes $11 billion from its valuation, putting IPO plans in doubt
Canva has cut $11 billion from its valuation amid rising AI-related expenses and increasing competition, putting its planned IPO in doubt.
- saas
- funding
- ai
- valuation
Australia’s innovation challenge is no longer diagnosis – it’s delivery
Australia faces a key challenge in translating its research and innovation into scalable products and services, with the federal government's Strategic Examination of Research and Development emphasizing delivery over diagnosis.
- innovation
- policy
- research
Qld innovation strategy overhaul delivers commercialisation office
Queensland's new 15-year science and innovation plan includes creating an Office of Commercialisation and appointing a chief innovator aimed at increasing the commercial impact of state research.
- policy
- innovation
- queensland
- commercialisation
Cooperative Research Australia’s Jane O’Dwyer named new ATSE chief
Jane O’Dwyer will become the new chief of the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering after leading Cooperative Research Australia for over five years.
- leadership
- science
- technology
- research
Govt urged to freeze NDIS and aged care automation plans
Independent and Greens senators are urging the Australian government to pause plans for automating parts of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), citing concerns about the impact on care and decision-making.
- policy
- automation
- ndis
- government
Hotels customer acquisition platform Visaible.ai finds room for $1 million
AI startup Visaible.ai raised $1 million to help hotels improve customer acquisition by using AI agents to fix listings and protect direct bookings amid changes in travel search.
- ai
- funding
- travel
- customer acquisition
Shared geospatial map could save councils millions, inquiry told
A federal inquiry was told that providing local councils access to Geoscape Australia's digital map of national building stock could save millions and improve disaster preparedness and productivity across Australia.
- data
- geospatial
- local government
- productivity
WA government hands Space Angel $1.75 million grant for spaceport plan
The Western Australian government has granted $1.75 million to Space Angel for its green spaceport project, aiming to develop launch facilities at Eucla and Christmas Island.
- space
- funding
- government
Best in Tech awards finalist Sophiie AI lands $5 million Seed round
Sophiie AI, an AI startup focused on automating tradie administration tasks, secured a $5 million Seed funding round and plans to expand into the US market.
- ai
- funding
- startup
- capital raising
NSW puts data centres to work on energy transition
New South Wales introduced expedited approval rules for major data centres with strict environmental and energy efficiency standards to aid the state's energy transition. Requirements include recycled water use, noise limits, and new power purchasing agreements aiming to align da
- policy
- data centres
- energy transition
- nsw
AI-generated lawsuits are flooding the courts. Lawyers are paying the price
AI-generated content is increasingly flooding the courts, creating challenges for the legal system as lawyers face issues managing the influx of AI-written lawsuits. This trend poses significant pressure on judicial resources and legal processes.
- artificial intelligence
- law
- ai
- legal technology
Deep tech copper recovery startup Orivium seeks $30 million Series B
Deep tech startup Orivium is seeking $30 million in Series B funding to develop technology that recovers critical metals from mining waste, focusing on copper recovery.
- deeptech
- funding
- mining tech
- capital raising
Briefcase appoints Michael Hasten as Head of Growth
Fintech Briefcase appointed Michael Hasten as Head of Growth to support expansion and growth strategies.
- fintech
- hiring
US to tell partners they must pick sides in AI race with China
The US plans to require countries to choose sides in the AI race between the US and China, excluding partners from a US-led AI coalition if they also join China's competing AI framework, as part of geopolitical strategy on AI governance.
- ai
- geopolitics
- policy
- us
The evolving market for non-prime auto loans
The non-prime auto loan market in Australia continues to evolve, increasing access to finance for consumers with imperfect credit.
- fintech
- lending
Quantum Australia reveals $83 million economic impact and 15 new quantum companies
Quantum Australia reports an $83 million economic impact and the emergence of 15 new quantum companies supported by its national programs.
- ai
- quantum computing
- technology
- australian scaleups
Perth’s Space Angel Awarded $1.75 Million To Progress WA’s First Spaceport
Perth-based Space Angel received a $1.75 million Spaceport Establishment Support Grant, matched by the company, to conduct site assessments and develop a business case for Western Australia's first spaceport.
- news
- grants
- space
Tech giants face swift crackdown if new eSafety powers approved
The eSafety Commissioner testified that with new regulatory powers, the office could swiftly compel tech giants to provide documentation and issue orders to enforce social media age limits. Proposed laws enhancing the Commissioner's authority aim to improve compliance with online
- policy
- esafety
- regulation
- social media
‘Mature equilibrium’: the road ahead for Aussie tech jobs
The Tech Council of Australia projects that by 2026, Australia's tech workforce growth will reach a plateau described as a 'mature equilibrium.' Despite setting a goal to add 200,000 new tech jobs by 2030, the current trend indicates challenges in achieving significant workforce
- jobs
- skills
- tech workforce
Apple trains its own AI model for China, with Alibaba
Apple has developed and trained a large language model specifically for the Chinese market in partnership with Alibaba Group. This marks a shift from relying on third-party AI models to deploying proprietary AI technology tailored to regional needs.
- ai
- apple
- alibaba
- china
WA taps Space Angel to scope out first spaceport
Perth-based company Space Angel has received a $1.75 million grant from the Western Australian government to begin scoping work for the state’s first dual-corridor spaceport. This initiative is part of a $2 million election commitment to accelerate the development of local space
- space
- grants
- spaceport
- wa government
Gig Guide: Microsoft names local finance chief
Microsoft appointed Christopher Healey as its new chief financial officer for Australia and New Zealand. Healey returns to the region after over seven years at the company's Seattle headquarters, succeeding Gael McLennan, who moved into the chief operating officer role for ANZ in
- hiring
- microsoft
- leadership
- fintech
Listed VC Bailador survives the SAASpocalypse with PropHero as its FY26 lucky charm
Listed venture capital firm Bailador remains resilient through the 'SaaSpocalypse,' maintaining dividends despite valuation pressure from AI market uncertainties; PropHero is seen as a positive for fiscal year 2026.
- venture capital
- asx
- saas
- ai
Eight ANZ startups that raised $67.4 million this week
Eight startups in Australia and New Zealand raised a total of $67.4 million recently, including companies like Farmbot and Alloy Robotics, highlighting ongoing investment activity in the regional tech ecosystem.
- startups
- funding
- australia
- anz
Nick Scali manually processes orders after cyber breach forced systems offline
Nick Scali, an ASX-listed retailer, experienced a cyber breach that forced it to manually process orders, highlighting cybersecurity challenges faced by companies.
- cybersecurity
- cyber attack
- retail tech
New laws in NSW should make e-bikes less annoying on footpaths
New legislation in New South Wales aims to regulate e-bike sharing services with operator approvals, designated parking zones, and significant fines to improve safety and user experience on footpaths.
- policy
- nsw
- transport
- e-bikes
From Sydney to Seoul: CMY Cubes picked for government-backed pathway into South Korea
Sydney-based startup CMY Cubes was selected for South Korea’s K-Startup Grand Challenge, preparing to expand its science-inspired toys into the South Korean market.
- startups
- global expansion
Pepperstone appoints Nigel Fernandes as Chief Technology Officer
Melbourne-based Pepperstone appointed Nigel Fernandes as Chief Technology Officer, strengthening its fintech technology leadership.
- fintech
- hiring
- technology
Cub Campers and MitchCap launch dedicated finance program
Cub Campers and MitchCap launched a dedicated finance program to improve camper and caravan ownership accessibility through tailored customer finance.
- fintech
- australian fintech
- fintech disruptors
- partnership
Quantum growth centre pushes into Canberra
Quantum Australia, a national quantum technology growth centre, is establishing a new office at the Australian National University in Canberra. This expansion follows reductions in federal government commercialisation funding, and comes as the centre unveils modelling valuing its
- quantum
- deeptech
- anu
- grants
Meta purges another 200k teen accounts as crackdown looms
Meta has removed an additional 200,000 accounts it suspects belong to Australians under 16, ahead of expected regulatory actions and increased fines over social media age ban breaches in Australia.
- meta
- social media
- regulation
- esafety
Serial founder Zac Altman seeds $3.5 million for his new ADHD startup
Kantoko, an ADHD-focused online care startup founded by Zac Altman, has raised $3.5 million in Seed funding to reduce wait times and costs associated with ADHD diagnosis and treatment.
- health tech
- funding
- startup
Veteran agtech Farmbot digs up $22 million Series B for US push
Farmbot, an agtech startup, secured $22 million in a Series B funding round to advance its ranch water monitoring technology and expand its presence in the US market with its Ranchbot product.
- ag tech
- funding
- startup
6 startups score $13.5 million from biotech grants fund CUREator+
Six Australian biotech startups have received a total of $13.5 million in grants from the CUREator+ fund to accelerate AI-driven health, cancer, and cardiology technologies towards commercialisation.
- biotech
- health tech
- funding
Inside the race: Alphabet’s Google DeepMind overhaul
Alphabet's Google DeepMind is undergoing a significant restructuring as part of its AI strategy, highlighting ongoing global developments in AI technology affecting Australian tech dynamics.
- ai
- global
- restructure
The Big 3 VCs back robot testing startup’s $11.5 million Seed raise
Alloy Robotics has raised $11.5 million in seed funding from major Australian VCs to accelerate their robot testing platform which reduces analysis time from one day to 10 minutes.
- funding
- robotics
- seed
26 WA Businesses Share $1.27 Million In Round Eight Of The Innovation Booster Grant
26 Western Australian businesses were awarded a total of $1.27 million through the Innovation Booster Grant's eighth round, providing early-stage funding to support their development.
- news
- innovation booster grant
LoanOptions.ai secures landmark asset finance partnership with Lendi Group
LoanOptions.ai partnered with Lendi Group to expand asset finance support to Lendi's national broker network in Australia.
- ai
- fintech
- lending
- partnership
Zepto appoints Emily Curlewis as General Manager, Commercial
Payments fintech Zepto appointed Emily Curlewis as General Manager, Commercial, growing her role after over four years with the company.
- fintech
- payments
- leadership
BGL partners with OnboardMe to simplify AML/CTF compliance
BGL Corporate Solutions partnered with OnboardMe to simplify onboarding and AML/CTF compliance for accounting firms.
- fintech
- technology
- compliance
- partnership
Hello Clever appoints payments veteran Mark Tibbles as advisor
Australian real-time payments fintech Hello Clever appointed payments industry veteran Mark Tibbles as an advisor to support growth.
- fintech
- payments
- leadership
Decrease risk with combined loan origination and servicing
Easylodge offers integrated loan origination and servicing modules on a connected platform covering the credit lifecycle end-to-end for fintech clients.
- fintech
- technology
South Australia’s royal commission represents a new state of play for AI
South Australia has launched a royal commission into artificial intelligence and secured a deal with OpenAI, signaling a proactive approach to AI governance that may influence regional AI policy ahead of national decisions.
- ai
- policy
- south australia
WA government delivers $1.275 million in grants to 26 startups
The Western Australian government has awarded $1.275 million in grants to 26 startups, including initiatives in AI legal aid, artificial kidneys, and Indigenous-led technology projects.
- funding
- wa
- startups
- ai
Better Systems, Stronger Firms: The link between culture, clients and profitability
This article discusses how culture, client relationships, and technology together contribute to accounting firm profitability in financial services.
- fintech
JAVLN launches AI capability to eliminate manual client reviews
Insurtech company JAVLN launched an AI-powered Client Activity Summary tool to automate and improve manual client reviews for insurance brokers.
- ai
- insurtech
- technology
Defence startup Millibeam launches drone jammer after scoring $4.6 million in government grants
Defence startup Millibeam has launched a soldier-carried drone jammer called Rakurai, targeting UAV swarms with sovereign chips, following $4.6 million in government grants and interest from the Australian Defence Force.
- funding
- defence
- deeptech
- hardware
Australian FinTech company profile #192 – Volans
Volans is a fintech that provides wholesale portfolio-secured lending, allowing wealth platforms and advisers to offer loans secured against investment portfolios.
- fintech
Advantai Group strengthens leadership team with two senior appointments
Advantai Group has announced senior leadership appointments: Ben Dobbin as Chief Operating Officer of Prvidr, and Julian Dell as Chief Technology Officer of Staqr.
- fintech
- fintech jobs
Meet Credit Copilot: The AI tool built for lenders who want to compete differently
Credit Copilot is an AI-powered tool designed to help lenders by extracting and structuring data, comparing observed versus declared information, and flagging issues mapped to policy rules.
- ai
- borrowing
- fintech
- lending
BiiGGA joins the Viking commercial panel
Borrowing fintech BiiGGA has joined the Viking commercial panel to make its full product range available to Viking’s national broker network.
- borrowing
- fintech
- lending
- australian fintech
SA launches royal commission into artificial intelligence
South Australia officially launches a royal commission into AI to examine risks and regulatory responses as AI technologies advance rapidly in the region.
- ai
- government
- policy
How a simple request for AI to book a gym class exposed a major threat
A simple AI request to book a gym class exposed a major cybersecurity threat, demonstrating vulnerabilities in AI assistant integrations with online services in Australia.
- ai
- cybersecurity
Finalists Announced For The 2026 WA Innovators Of The Year
The 2026 WA Innovators of the Year finalists have been announced, narrowing over 130 applications to 23 finalists across six categories, competing for $310,000 in prizes.
- news
BiiGGA appoints Lee Slattery as Chief Commercial Officer to drive its next phase of growth
BiiGGA, an Australian SME lender backed by Attvest Finance, has appointed Lee Slattery as Chief Commercial Officer to lead its growth.
- borrowing
- fintech
- lending
- australian fintech
The new currency of the digital economy is confidence
Confidence is emerging as a key asset in the digital economy, particularly as AI becomes deeply integrated into business operations, influencing fintech and data sectors globally.
- ai
- fintech
- technology
- australian fintech
Financeable, Your Insurance and Cloudfloat deliver market leading straight-through processing for commercial finance, insurance and premium funding
Financeable, Your Insurance, and Cloudfloat have partnered to deliver a market-leading straight-through processing solution integrating commercial finance, insurance, and premium funding.
- ai
- fintech
- insurance
- insurtech
The new currency of the digital economy is confidence
As AI becomes more integrated into business operations, confidence is increasingly valued as a key organizational asset in the digital economy.
- ai
- fintech
- technology
WA Government Wants An Operator For Its New $2 Million Commercialisation Hub
The Western Australia State Government has opened expressions of interest to select an operator for its new $2 million WA Commercialisation Hub.
- news
- deed
- hubs
Welcome to Stripe Tour Sydney 2026
Stripe Tour Sydney 2026 is an event showcasing Stripe's product innovations and customer success stories aimed at helping Australian businesses grow.
- ai
- fintech
- payments
- australian fintech
Cloudoffis expands Workpapers Sorted with QuickBooks and MYOB integrations, unlocking broader market access
Cloudoffis has expanded its Workpapers Sorted platform with integrations to QuickBooks and MYOB, broadening access to accounting markets.
- fintech
- australian fintech
How CSIRO’s ON Accelerate helped turn these Aussie healthtech startups into commercial successes
CSIRO's ON Accelerate program has supported Australian healthtech startups in translating their innovations into commercial successes.
- healthtech
- deeptech
- startup
- ecosystem
The 30-minute payslip is now a 15-second job: meet AutoCalc
Sydney-based digital broker assistant AutoCalc reduces payslip analysis time from 30 minutes to 15 seconds, increasing broker productivity.
- fintech
- lending
- technology
- startup
Why China's memory chips could help end 'RAMageddon'
China's memory chip manufacturer CXMT is entering the stock market, which could help alleviate global RAM shortages and impact the Australian semiconductor supply chain.
- hardware
- semiconductors
A rogue AI just gave us a warning. Australia isn't prepared
A rogue AI incident underscores Australia's lack of preparedness for advanced AI risks, highlighting urgent needs for safety measures and regulation.
- ai
- safety
- policy
Hear that siren? That was the first test of a national emergency alert
Australia conducted its first national emergency alert test, marking a key step in improving national emergency communication infrastructure using technology.
- technology
- emergency
- infrastructure
Anchor Tenant Sought For $55 Million South West Advanced Manufacturing Hub
Western Australia's government has issued a Request for Proposal to find an anchor tenant for its $55 million South West Advanced Manufacturing Hub, which will support the state's coal exit by 2030.
- news
- amtech
PlanAI Wins Start-Up Category As WA’s INCITE Awards Name 2026 Winners
PlanAI won the Start-Up category at the 2026 WA INCITE Awards, which recognize innovation and achievement across the region's tech sector.
- news
- incite awards
Revolut lands full Australian banking licence, the first global fintech to do so, marking its first banking entity in APAC
Revolut Bank Australia received a full unrestricted Authorised Deposit-taking Institution (ADI) licence from APRA, becoming the first global fintech to achieve this in Australia. The banking arm plans to invest AU$400 million over five years to serve 1.2 million Australians and c
- fintech
- australia tech news
- funding news
Has AI changed your life in unexpected ways? The ABC wants to hear from you
The ABC seeks input from Australians on unexpected ways AI has impacted their lives, reflecting broad societal engagement with AI technology changes.
- ai
- society
Rules to tighten on AI use in decision-making by government departments
Australian government departments will face tighter rules on AI use in decision-making processes, aiming to enhance transparency and accountability in public sector AI applications.
- ai
- government
- policy
Australia is making humanoid robots in the midst of its AI reckoning
Australia is developing humanoid robots amid ongoing AI advances, showcasing domestic capabilities in combining robotics and artificial intelligence.
- robotics
- ai
- deeptech
'Four billionaires and the Chinese government': Unions to take AI fight to Labor conference
Unions plan to challenge AI impacts on jobs at a Labor conference, highlighting labor concerns over automation and AI-driven employment changes in Australia.
- ai
- employment
- policy
Founder Stories: Two Young Grads Launch Wingman Money, Scoring Your Finances Out Of 100
Sam Holt and Joel Beaton launched Wingman Money, a gamified financial app that scores users' financial health out of 100 to help improve Gen Z's long-term financial wellbeing.
- founder stories
- news
- fintech
Albanese announces AI plan, Hanson joins Rinehart in Sicily
Prime Minister Albanese announces a comprehensive AI plan to foster development and regulate AI technologies in Australia, indicating strong federal commitment.
- ai
- government
- policy
Albanese rolls out rule book and red carpet for AI companies
Prime Minister Albanese unveils new rules and incentives for AI companies to attract investment and ensure responsible AI development in Australia.
- ai
- government
- policy
Q-Day is coming and it might break the entire internet
The approaching 'Q-Day' involving Shor's algorithm and quantum computing could disrupt current cryptographic systems, signaling future challenges and opportunities for Australian tech security.
- quantum computing
- security
Labor takes a stand on data centre rules and AI copyright
The Australian Labor party plans to set standards for AI regulation, data centers, and copyright issues to manage emerging technological challenges.
- ai
- policy
- data centres
Employees sue Meta over claims AI systems selected workers for lay-offs
Meta employees sue the company alleging that AI systems influenced worker layoffs, raising questions about AI ethics and governance in Australian tech workplaces.
- ai
- employment
- legal
Anthony Albanese maps out AI future with new national framework
Prime Minister Albanese outlines a national AI framework to coordinate development and regulation of AI technologies across Australia.
- ai
- government
- policy
Cook Reshuffles Cabinet, Dawson Keeps Science And Innovation
Stephen Dawson retained the Science and Innovation portfolio in a Western Australian Cabinet reshuffle triggered by Paul Papalia’s retirement from politics.
- news
WA Government Backs Space Industry With $6.5 Million In Funding
The Western Australian Government committed an additional $6.5 million in funding to support its space industry, although this amount is lower than South Australia's space sector investment.
- news
- space
VGW Founder Laurence Escalante Resigns As CEO Effective Immediately
Laurence Escalante, founder of Perth-based tech company VGW, resigned as CEO effective immediately amid personal legal issues.
- news
- laurence escalante
- vgw
US Government Lifts Export Controls On Anthropic’s Claude Fable 5 And Mythos 5: What You Need To Know
US export controls on Anthropic's AI models Claude Fable 5 and Mythos 5 were lifted, allowing global access after an 18-day suspension.
- news
- ai
Perth Landing Pad Secures $150,000 In Renewed State Funding
Spacecubed’s Perth Landing Pad for overseas startups secured $150,000 in renewed state funding to continue operations through 2026.
- news
- perth landing pad
- spacecubed
How Ben overcame his dilemma about disclosing his autism in job interviews
A Curtin University program helps neurodiverse individuals, including those on the autism spectrum, secure cyber security jobs, supporting diversity in Australian tech workforce.
- cybersecurity
- diversity
- employment
Work Begins On WA’s First Advanced Manufacturing And Renewables Hub
Construction has started on Western Australia's first advanced manufacturing and renewables precinct located in the South West region.
- news
- advanced manufacturing
- climate
Partly banks $50M led by DST Global at $500M valuation to make auto repair AI do what GPT-5 can’t
Partly, a Christchurch-founded AI startup specializing in automotive parts identification, raised $50 million in Series B funding led by DST Global at a $500 million valuation. Its purpose-built Interpreter model outperforms general AI at accurately identifying vehicle parts, add
- ai news
- australia tech news
- funding news
- startups
Security agencies issue blunt 'act swiftly' warning on AI
Five Eyes security agencies issue urgent warnings to act swiftly on AI governance and safety, emphasizing international cooperation on AI risk management relevant to Australia.
- ai
- security
- policy
WA Edtech Founder Named UN ‘AI For Good’ Finalist As He Relaunches Valearnis For Free
A Western Australian edtech founder, previously dismissed by investors, has relaunched the bootstrapped startup Valearnis for free and was named a finalist in the UN's AI For Good program.
- news
- edtech
- ai
SavvyWise Closes $1.56 Million Crowdfunding Raise, Backed By Accountants
SavvyWise, a Perth-based AI tech company, closed $1.56 million in crowdfunding, marking the largest AI equity raise of the financial year backed by accountants.
- news
- ai
- funding
Cook Government Commits $1.1 Million To West Tech Fest
West Tech Fest, one of Australia's largest innovation festivals, secured $1.1 million in funding for four more years and will relocate to a new venue in the port city.
- news
- west tech fest
Grandfather's fall inspires 20yo student's smart clock invention
A 20-year-old Australian student invents a smart clock inspired by a relative's fall, demonstrating innovation in technology addressing health and safety problems.
- innovation
- healthtech
Minister Dawson Announces $10 Million AI Investment Fund And Public Sector Centre Of Excellence
The Western Australian government announced a $10 million AI investment fund and a public sector Centre of Excellence to facilitate government access to leading AI businesses and support AI pilot projects.
- news
- ai
Microsoft is spending $18 billion to make Australia its Asia-Pacific AI beachhead
Microsoft announced a A$25 billion (about $18 billion USD) investment in Australia by 2029 to expand Azure cloud capacity by over 140%, establish AI infrastructure, enhance government cybersecurity collaborations, and develop AI skills for three million Australians. This investme
- ai news
- australia tech news
- cloud
- enterprise
Advanced Navigation bags AU $158M to build resilient nav tech beyond GPS
Sydney-based deep-tech company Advanced Navigation raised AU$158 million in Series C funding to develop resilient navigation technology that works beyond GPS. Their AdNav Intelligence software fuses data from multiple sensors enabling autonomous vehicles and systems to operate in
- deeptech
- australia tech news
- ai news
- funding news
Can AI take the guesswork out of meat? MEQ Solutions raises $15M to find out
Melbourne-based MEQ Solutions raised $15 million in Series A funding led by Insight Partners to develop AI and imaging technology that objectively measures red meat quality and yield across the supply chain. Their platform covers live animal to final carcass assessment, enabling
- agtech
- healthtech
- australia tech news
- funding news
NVIDIA-backed Firmus raises $327M to build Australia’s biggest green AI data centers
Nvidia-backed Firmus Technologies raised $327 million to build Australia’s largest renewable-powered AI data centres, aiming to deliver up to 1.6 gigawatts of AI compute capacity by 2028. The funding supports data centre development across multiple Australian states, integrating
- australia tech news
- funding news
- data centres
- ai
Heidi raises $65M to scale its AI scribe across global health systems
Melbourne-based healthtech startup Heidi secured $65 million in Series B funding led by Point72 Private Investments, valuing the company at $465 million. Heidi provides an ambient AI platform for real-time transcription and clinical workflow automation, used widely by NHS GPs in
- healthtech
- ai news
- australia tech news
- funding news
Atlassian follows Browser Company buy with $1B DX acquisition
Atlassian announced a $1 billion acquisition of DX, a developer productivity analytics platform founded in 2020. DX provides engineering leaders insights into software development bottlenecks and integrates with Atlassian’s ecosystem, enhancing collaboration tools and strengtheni
- acquisition
- australia tech news
- software
- startups
Canva hits $42B valuation in secondary sale, joining Figma in pre-IPO spotlight
Australian design software company Canva has conducted an employee stock sale valuing the firm at $42 billion, ahead of a planned IPO expected later in 2026. The round was led by Fidelity Management with JPMorgan joining as a new investor. Canva provides an online design platform
- australia tech news
- funding news
- startup
- software
Australian FinTech celebrates its 10th Anniversary!
Australian FinTech, Australia's longest running fintech news site, is celebrating its 10th anniversary, continuing to provide industry news and insights.
- fintech
- fintech startups