Written by Sophie Babic

Push for media compensation in the AI landscape

Nine Entertainment has urged the federal government to progress reforms that would require technology platforms to pay Australian media organisations for the use of news content.

Speaking during the company’s half‑year financial results, Nine chief executive Matt Stanton said the government’s long-awaited news bargaining incentive was at risk of further delay.

The policy is designed to address a power imbalance between search or social media giants and media publishers when negotiating payment for displaying news content.

The issue has taken on greater urgency as AI‑powered tools increasingly summarise and surface news content directly to users, reducing referral traffic to original websites. Nine has confirmed it has entered into two licensing agreements with domestic companies that use its articles to train internal large language models.

While these agreements provide a new revenue stream, they also underline the broader question of how journalism is funded as AI becomes more integrated into information platforms.

Is AI putting Australia’s net-zero goals at risk?

During a recent budget estimates hearing, NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe was questioned about the growth of data centres across the state and their potential impact on emissions targets.

Up to 90 data centres are already operating, with proposals for projects valued at around $100 billion under assessment.

Sharpe admitted that current modelling suggests NSW is not on track to meet its legislated 2030 emissions reduction target. Reductions of around 40 to 46 per cent are forecasted, rather than the required 70 per cent below 2005 levels.

She said the government remained committed to its targets and was developing a new net‑zero strategy to guide progress toward 2030, 2035 and 2050.

Energy demand from data centres was also raised as a concern, with officials noting that increased demand can place upward pressure on wholesale electricity prices.

Worryingly, proposed developments could add a significant additional load to the energy system, with flow‑on effects for consumers.

Major job cuts to make way for AI investment

In the financial sector, Commonwealth Bank’s announcement of job cuts alongside a major AI workforce initiative demonstrates how organisations are balancing automation and reskilling.

The bank confirmed around 300 roles would be cut, to make way for its $90 million, three‑year Future Workforce Program. The plan includes a digital platform that maps employees’ current skills, identifies potential career pathways, and highlights training opportunities, including AI‑related learning.

CBA chief executive Matt Comyn said businesses and employees needed to prepare for a future in which AI plays a larger role in day‑to‑day work.

The Finance Sector Union criticised the timing of the job cuts, arguing the program should prioritise support for workers affected by automation, particularly following the bank’s strong half‑year financial results.

AI for job applications

Jobseekers are increasingly using AI to generate resumes, cover letters and professional headshots, but recruiters are warning not to rely on these tools.

Recruitment specialists have seen a rise in AI generated professional headshots across LinkedIn and advise against them as it can raise authenticity concerns. The use of AI‑written resumes and cover letters may also be flagged by automated screening systems.

Common AI giveaways such as generic phrasing, unusual formatting and excessive jargon can reduce a candidate’s chances rather than improve them.

Experts clarified that while AI can assist with drafting and refinement, applicants still need to ensure their materials accurately reflect their experience and remain tailored to the role.