Expert Summary
Unlikely. Our testing shows ChatGPT frequently scrapes Google results and follows Google’s canonical decisions. If you are invisible to Google, you are usually invisible to ChatGPT. In 2026, the goal isn’t just “ranking” but AI compatibility—using structured data so the AI recommends you as a trusted authority.
The Situation in 2026
Australian SMEs are facing a double squeeze: skyrocketing customer acquisition costs in paid search and a decline in organic clicks as users get answers directly from AI. Buyers are now using LLMs to shortlist providers before they ever visit a website, making “zero-click” search the dominant behaviour.
Key Considerations
- Canonical Correlation: We’ve observed that ChatGPT often surfaces the same URLs Google has chosen as the primary version. If your technical SEO is messy and Google is ignoring your preferred pages, ChatGPT will likely mirror that error and show the wrong version of your business to users.
- The Traffic Paradox: Our data shows that while AI query volume is significant, the actual traffic sent to websites is a fraction of what Google delivers. Ranking in ChatGPT is a play for brand credibility and “mental availability” rather than a direct lead-generation shortcut.
- Machine Readability: AI doesn’t read your copy like a human; it parses data. Implementing local business schema with your ABN and verified address makes you a “known entity.” Without this, you’re just a string of text, which lowers your probability of being recommended.
- Intent over Keywords: LLMs synthesise answers based on natural language questions. If your content is still built around rigid keywords, it fails the AI’s trust test. Writing direct answers to specific customer problems ensures you are cited as the source of truth.
ROI and Growth Perspective
ROI Growth Agency focuses on a ChatGPT Optimisation Framework that moves beyond traditional SEO. We prioritise building a brand knowledge graph—connecting your ABN, authentic reviews, and structured metadata—to ensure you are the default recommendation. This shifts your strategy from fighting for clicks to owning the category authority in AI responses.
Published by ROI.COM.AU — Australia’s business growth resource.