Australia Unveils AI Support Line for SMEs
Synopsis
The national helpline uses generative AI to deliver tailored guidance as AI adoption among small businesses accelerates.
Australia has launched a new national hotline to help small businesses understand and use AI, with the initiative proactively reaching the market. New national hotline is now available to offer Australian small businesses the chance to learn and apply artificial intelligence, and the initiative is making its way into the market.
Government's AI Adopt program is offered by SMEC AI, and businesses can contact 1800-517-403 for assistance with AI adoption.
It's a free service available to qualifying companies with less than 200 employees. Advisers support businesses in determining where AI can be applied, demystifying AI technologies with easy-to-understand explanations, and offering practical advice on implementation, such as AI readiness assessments and post-implementation support.
AI Adoption Continues to Expand
The launch comes on the heels of the continued penetration of AI adoption in Australia's small business market. According to the Australian Government's AI Adoption Insights Report, 43% of SMEs used AI in the period of December 2025 to February 2026, with the adoption rate highest at 44% in February 2026.
Small enterprises continue to play a vital role in the Australia economy. The Australian Bureau of Statistics says businesses with under 200 employees are the majority of businesses in Australia, with over 99% of this group.
Part of a Wider AI Strategy
The AI support line for small business Australia is part of the Government's larger AI Adopt program to support businesses with advisory services, workshops and specialist AI programs designed to help with the practical use of AI.
Governments around the world are rolling out similar programs as countries increase their use of AI.
According to the 2025 report of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), investment in AI is rising throughout the advanced economies, but SMEs still have difficulties in implementing AI, such as: lack of technical skills, lack of skills, implementation costs.
OpenAI recently launched a separate OpenAI ChatGPT Small Business Program for training and AI education in smaller businesses in the United States.
Source: InformationAGE
Pooja Malik is a business journalist with over six years of experience covering startups, entrepreneurship, and emerging trends. She has previously worked with leading media platforms such as YourStory Media and BW BusinessWorld, where she reported on business, policy, and market developments. Currently, she serves as Editor at The Inspirepreneur Magazine, where she writes and edits stories across business, lifestyle, and travel, with a focus on clarity, accuracy, and reader relevance.
