Artificial Intelligence on the Gold Coast: Weighing the Challenges, Risks, and Ethical Questions Alongside the Promise

Artificial intelligence is being used in 1 in 5 Gold Coast businesses, according to a recent survey by the Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce.

This matters now because the city is positioning itself as a major tech hub, with the Queensland Government investing $10 million in the Gold Coast Tech Park in Varsity Lakes. The park is home to over 100 businesses, including AI startups like Dataro, which uses machine learning to help companies make better decisions. With the rise of AI, local businesses are under pressure to adapt and stay competitive, but they must also navigate the challenges and risks associated with this technology.

In the Gold Coast's thriving innovation precincts, such as the one surrounding Griffith University's Gold Coast campus on Parklands Drive, and the bustling neighbourhood of Burleigh Heads, where companies like Silicon Lakes are based, AI is being used to drive innovation and growth. For example, the Gold Coast City Council has partnered with the Australian Institute for Machine Learning to develop an AI-powered system for managing traffic flow on major roads like the M1 and Smith Street. Meanwhile, organisations like the Gold Coast Innovation Hub, located on Upton Street, are providing support and resources for local businesses looking to leverage AI.

Understanding the Risks and Challenges

According to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 75% of businesses on the Gold Coast have reported an increase in productivity since implementing AI solutions, but 40% have also reported concerns about job displacement. A report by the consulting firm, Deloitte, found that the average cost of implementing AI solutions for a small business on the Gold Coast is around $15,000, with some companies spending up to $50,000 or more. As of June 2026, the Gold Coast has seen a 25% increase in AI-related job postings, with salaries ranging from $80,000 to over $150,000 per year.

So what happens next? Local businesses must carefully consider the potential risks and challenges associated with AI, including job displacement, bias in decision-making, and cybersecurity threats. They should also be aware of the resources available to them, such as the Queensland Government's $6 million AI and Robotics Hub, which provides funding and support for businesses looking to develop and implement AI solutions. By taking a thoughtful and informed approach to AI adoption, Gold Coast businesses can harness the promise of this technology while minimizing its risks.