As of early 2026, AI-powered search engines like Google’s Gemini and Microsoft’s Copilot don’t inherently *favour* specific website types, but they prioritise websites that demonstrably provide the most relevant, high-quality, and user-friendly experiences for search queries. Current systems include sophisticated algorithms analysing factors beyond keywords, focusing on semantic understanding and user intent.
- E-A-T Signals: Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness are heavily weighted. AI assesses content quality, author credentials, and website security.
- Structured Data: Websites utilising schema markup (e.g., for products, events, recipes) help AI understand content context, improving visibility in rich results.
- Mobile-First Indexing: AI prioritises the mobile version of your website for ranking, demanding responsive design and fast loading speeds.
- Core Web Vitals: Page experience metrics – Largest Contentful Paint, First Input Delay, and Cumulative Layout Shift – are crucial for ranking.
In 2026, Australian businesses must also consider the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) and Privacy Act when optimising for AI search. Ensuring compliance with data handling practices and providing clear, accurate information is vital for building trust and avoiding penalties. Furthermore, AI is now features a stronger understanding of Australian slang and regional variations, meaning content needs to be naturally written for an Australian audience.
Instead of navigating these complex technical requirements yourself, let ROI.com.au handle the intricacies of AI search optimisation. We can take care of all this for you. Contact our team today to discuss a personalised strategy for your business.
