From Microsoft facing ACCC action to the Spark Festival celebrating 10 years of startups, here are the biggest Australian business and technology stories shaping the week.
Business News Highlights
Economic Outlook Remains Mixed Australian business leaders expect 2025 conditions to remain challenging, with inflation easing but still entrenched. Labour market supply issues and industrial relations continue to weigh on sentiment. Despite the cautious outlook, there is optimism for growth through new market development and technology upgrades, especially to address skills shortages and wage pressures.
New Property Platform Launches A national platform connecting Australians with verified buyers’ agents has launched, using real performance data to promote transparency and efficiency in property transactions.
ACCC Takes on Microsoft The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has sued Microsoft, alleging the company misled around 2.7 million Australians by raising Microsoft 365 prices after adding the Copilot AI assistant. The case could set a precedent for AI-related pricing and disclosure practices in Australia.
Technology News Highlights
Drone and Defence Tech Demand Soars Australian drone technology firms are experiencing surging demand as conflicts in Europe accelerate the need for advanced defence and surveillance systems. Local companies are seizing the opportunity to expand globally.
ASX Volatility WiseTech Global shares plunged following Sydney office raids, while biotech leader CSL cut guidance, causing a sector-wide dip. The ASX remains heavily influenced by global inflation data and investor sentiment.
Spark Festival Marks 10 Years The 10th Spark Festival, Australia’s largest startup event, wrapped up in NSW after hosting hundreds of sessions for founders, investors, and policymakers. Former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull joined the opening celebrations, highlighting a decade of startup growth and the urgent need for sustained funding and support. Closing sessions focused on best-practice collaboration between corporates and founders to strengthen the innovation ecosystem.
Semiconductor & AI Opportunities The Semiconductor Australia 2025 conference in Sydney spotlighted the nation’s potential in semiconductors, quantum computing, and AI. Experts said Australian deep-tech startups can play a growing role in global supply chains if local investment and policy momentum continue.
Startup and AI Trends
- A new report values Australia’s AI opportunity at $142 billion, with productivity gains across SME-driven sectors such as retail, logistics, and services.
- Technology remains a top area of optimism among business leaders tackling cost and workforce challenges.
- Government-backed startup spaces in NSW remain under-utilised due to funding issues, making community-driven events like Spark Festival crucial for revitalising engagement.
Economic and Industry Outlook
While uncertainty is easing, ongoing supply-chain issues, high costs, and skills shortages continue to limit growth. Experts say collaboration between government, founders, and investors, combined with stronger AI and digital adoption, will be essential to drive innovation and economic recovery into 2026.
At qrco.au, we track the pulse of Australia’s digital and business transformation. Stay tuned each week for the latest updates shaping innovation, startups, and tech-driven growth across the nation.