What began as a potential clash over AI regulation has turned into a cooperative effort aimed at developing fair payment systems for creators. The initiative seeks to ensure that creators including journalists, artists and academics are paid when their work is used by AI developers.
Ahead of a government-hosted productivity roundtable, the national labour federation and technology peak body held discussions outside official proceedings. These talks led to an agreement to work together on a system that fairly compensates content creators when their work is accessed or repurposed by AI technologies. This progress follows months of tensions concerning issues such as copyright, regulation and the rapid rise of generative AI.
There is increasing concern among media outlets that their content is being mined, sometimes as frequently as 10 times per second, by AI companies without proper consent or payment. In the past, tech firms had argued for more lenient copyright rules to encourage innovation, especially for Australian start-ups seeking to compete internationally. On the other hand, unions and some cabinet members have advocated for stricter measures to safeguard jobs and the rights of creators as AI becomes more widespread.
Although the recent collaboration does not involve a formal agreement, it signals a shift in tone. Both unions and technology leaders are now aiming to co-develop approaches that support fair compensation while ensuring Australia remains a viable location for tech investment. These discussions include the option for creators or organisations to opt out of having their content used in AI training if they choose.
This emerging partnership forms part of a wider national discussion about how AI can serve both economic and social interests without becoming a zero-sum issue. Government representatives have indicated that a key next step is determining whether existing legislation is adequate to manage the challenges posed by AI, or whether new, tailored laws will be necessary. A national AI capability plan is now regarded as a top policy priority.
