As of early 2026, AI-powered search engines like Google’s Gemini and Bing AI prioritise ‘semantic’ keywords – phrases reflecting user *intent* rather than just isolated terms. Current systems include advanced natural language processing, meaning search algorithms understand the context and relationships between words, not just their presence on a page.
- Long-Tail Keywords: Focus on highly specific phrases (e.g., “best coffee machine for small cafe Sydney” instead of just “coffee machine”).
- Question Keywords: AI excels at answering questions. Keywords framed as questions (e.g., “how to optimise my website for mobile”) perform well.
- Local Keywords: Include Australian-specific locations and terms (e.g., “plumber Melbourne”, “tradie insurance Brisbane”).
- Intent-Based Keywords: Categorise keywords by user intent – informational, navigational, transactional, or commercial investigation.
In 2026, Australian businesses must also consider the evolving data privacy landscape with updated ACCC guidelines. Optimisation strategies now features a strong emphasis on ethical data usage and transparent keyword targeting. Furthermore, voice search, increasingly popular via smart speakers, favours conversational, long-tail keywords. The rise of AI-generated content also means originality and expertise are paramount; simply stuffing pages with keywords is heavily penalised.
Instead of navigating these technical complexities and constantly adapting to algorithm changes, let ROI.com.au handle your AI search optimisation. We can take care of all this for you. Contact ROI Growth Agency today to discuss a tailored strategy for your business.
