Responding to Google reviews in Australia in 2026 is primarily managed through Google Business Profile (GBP) and integrated platforms like the Google Customer Review Management API, allowing businesses to monitor and reply to reviews directly within the Google ecosystem or via third-party tools.
As of December 2025, Google Business Profile now includes features like review highlights, which automatically categorises reviews based on keywords, aiding in quick identification of common themes. The Google Customer Review Management API allows developers to build solutions that pull review data and facilitate responses at scale; currently, access requires a Google Cloud project and adherence to Google’s API usage policies. Several Australian marketing platforms, such as BrightLocal and Podium, integrate with this API, offering features like automated review monitoring, sentiment analysis, and centralised response management. These platforms typically operate on a subscription basis, with pricing varying based on the number of locations and features used. Google’s review response system continues to prioritise responses from verified business owners, and in 2026, the system still requires a Google account associated with the business listing to post a public reply. Australian Consumer Law considerations regarding misleading or deceptive conduct apply to all responses.
The system functions by providing a centralised interface, either directly within GBP or through integrated platforms, for businesses to acknowledge and address customer feedback publicly.
