As of early 2026, AI-powered search engines like Perplexity AI and You.com are increasingly used by Australians, and their algorithms directly impact website traffic – potentially diverting users *away* from traditional Google searches, and influencing Google’s own understanding of content relevance.
- AI-Driven Content Summarisation: Current systems include the ability to directly answer user queries using information scraped from multiple sources, often displaying a concise summary *instead* of linking to websites.
- Personalised Search Experiences: AI now features highly personalised search results based on user behaviour and preferences, meaning rankings can vary significantly between individuals.
- Semantic Understanding: AI prioritises content that comprehensively addresses a topic’s intent, not just keyword matches, demanding more in-depth and authoritative content.
In 2026, Australian businesses need to optimise for ‘answer engine’ results, not just Google’s traditional ranking factors. This means focusing on structured data, clear and concise answers to common questions, and building genuine expertise. The ACCC is also increasingly scrutinising AI’s impact on competition, meaning transparency and ethical SEO practices are paramount for Australian compliance.
Instead of navigating these complex technical changes alone, let ROI.com.au handle the intricacies of AI-optimised SEO for your business. We can take care of all this for you. Contact our team today to discuss a tailored strategy to protect and grow your online visibility.
