Answer Engine Optimisation (AEO) is the practice of structuring your content so AI-powered tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, and Google’s AI Overviews can find, understand, and cite you as an authoritative source when answering user questions.
Unlike traditional SEO, where the goal is to rank in search results and get clicks, AEO focuses on becoming the answer itself—being quoted when AI tools synthesise information for users.
Why is it important?
With zero-click searches now exceeding 70% of all queries in Australia, by the end of 2026, being cited matters more than being clicked. When someone asks ChatGPT about your industry and your business is referenced in the answer, you’ve won brand awareness and authority – even if the user never visits your website.
The shift is fundamental: Australians aren’t browsing through 10 blue links anymore. They’re asking AI tools conversational questions and accepting the synthesised answer on the spot. If your content isn’t optimised for AI comprehension, you’re invisible in this new search landscape.
Key facts to consider
- 71% of Google searches in Australia now come from mobile devices, where AI-powered answers dominate
- AI tools prioritise content with clear structure, natural language, and credible sources
- Being cited by AI builds trust before customers even contact you
- AEO complements traditional SEO—you need both strategies working together
How ROI can help
At ROI.com.au, we’ve developed a specialised AEO methodology for Australian businesses. We identify the exact questions your customers are asking AI tools, create citation-worthy content that AI platforms trust, and implement the technical infrastructure to ensure you’re discoverable across ChatGPT, Google AI Overviews, and every platform where your customers search.
Ready to be cited as the authority in your industry? Let’s talk.
