In 2026, neither GEO (Geographic SEO) nor SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) is inherently ‘better’; they are increasingly intertwined and function as complementary components of a comprehensive online visibility strategy, with Google’s algorithms prioritising relevance based on user location and search intent.
SEO, as of December 2025, focuses on improving a website’s ranking in organic search results across all locations. Platforms like Google Search Console now include detailed location-based performance reports, showing impressions and clicks from Australian regions. GEO, however, specifically targets local search results – appearing in Google Maps and the ‘local pack’ (the top 3 local businesses displayed in search). Google Business Profile (GBP) remains central to GEO, and currently allows Australian businesses to optimise their listing with accurate NAP (Name, Address, Phone number) data, service areas, and photos. In 2026, GBP features continue to integrate with Google’s AI-powered local search updates, including the ability to respond to reviews with generative AI. Google’s rollout of AI-powered ‘immersive view’ for select Australian cities also impacts GEO, providing users with detailed 3D models of businesses and surrounding areas. The weighting given to each factor is dynamic, influenced by the searcher’s proximity and the specificity of their query.
Ultimately, both SEO and GEO work by signalling relevance to Google’s algorithms, with GEO focusing on local relevance and SEO on broader topical relevance, both contributing to overall discoverability.
