**OpenAI Expands to Australia with New Sydney Office**
OpenAI is making a significant move into the Australian market by establishing its first local office in Sydney this year. This expansion comes as the company, known for its popular ChatGPT, seeks to strengthen its presence in one of its fastest-growing regions. The San Francisco-based software firm, which has over 700 million weekly active users worldwide, has already set up an Australian entity and begun local hiring.
While specific details about the office location and staffing remain undisclosed, OpenAI describes this initiative as the “first step” toward creating a sustainable presence in Australia. Recent statistics indicate that Australians are among the most enthusiastic users of OpenAI’s tools, with local weekly active ChatGPT users increasing 2.5 times over the past year. Australia is now ranked among the top 10 markets for both developers and paying subscribers.
Brad Lightcap, OpenAI’s Chief Operating Officer, expressed excitement about the expansion, stating, “Australia’s government, businesses, and world-class developer ecosystem are already shaping the future of AI. We’re eager to build a local team to collaborate with partners, customers, and the millions of Australians who use ChatGPT daily.” The Sydney office will serve as a hub for engaging with developers, businesses, researchers, and policymakers, and is expected to host various events and executive visits throughout the year. Initial hiring will focus on roles that support local companies and users, particularly in technical positions.
This expansion comes at a crucial time for AI regulation, especially as discussions around new tariffs and penalties for countries that impose restrictions on US tech companies are ongoing. A recent report from the Productivity Commission estimated that AI could contribute $116 billion to Australia’s economy over the next decade, provided that the government avoids overly stringent regulations.
OpenAI has also appointed Kate Pounder, the former head of the Tech Council of Australia, to lead its local initiatives as a policy liaison. Despite being relatively new to the market, ChatGPT has quickly integrated into the Australian economy, although its introduction has raised concerns among some local workers. OpenAI has formed a multi-year partnership with Commonwealth Bank, where AI technologies are being implemented for both customers and staff, and has also partnered with local tech giants like Atlassian and Canva.
**FAQ**
**What is OpenAI’s new initiative in Australia?**
OpenAI is opening its first local office in Sydney to strengthen its presence in the Australian market, focusing on collaboration with local businesses and developers.
