Australia ‘sleepwalking’ into AI crisis and ‘tech bro free-for-all’, says Greens senator (opens original article in a new tab)

Independent senator David Pocock has urged the Albanese government to block tech companies from using Australian content to train AI models, as cabinet debates potential copyright rule changes. The government denies allowing copyright erosion and emphasizes national tech sovereignty, while some senators call for regulatory pauses.

• Independent senator David Pocock urged the Albanese government to prevent tech companies from using Australian content to train AI models.
• Cabinet is considering changes to copyright rules, with proposals including new exemptions or licensing extensions for AI development.
• Industry minister Tim Ayres denied allowing copyright protections to be undermined and emphasized Australia's need for sovereign tech capability.
• Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young called for a moratorium on new datacentres until regulations are in place.