Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s announced plans to toughen intellectual property rules for local artists facing unauthorised use by AI systems. During a major policy speech on July 15 2026, he called for rules balancing innovation and protection for artists. Calls have grown for a freeze on new server expansion until the government finalises AI rules to stop unapproved data harvesting of artistic content. Albanese’s proposal has drawn criticism over whether it can be enforced against overseas digital giants whose servers sit outside Australia. Labour backbenchers and industry groups warn weak penalties risk leaving artists exposed despite the intended safeguards.