Microsoft Pledges $3.2B Boost To Australian AI And Cloud Landscape: Report

Microsoft Corporation MSFT has reportedly declared plans to channel A$5 billion ($3.2 billion) into strengthening its artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing prowess in Australia over two years.

The U.S. tech giant would raise its computing capacity in Australia by 250%, according to a report from Reuters.

Marking a strategic push into the Australian market, the financial commitment can be perceived as Microsoft's overture in a nation that recently commenced public discourse on AI governance.

The discussion was sparked off following OpenAI's release of the hyper-realistic language model ChatGPT in 2022, which had the backing of Microsoft.

Adding layers to its investment, Microsoft also reportedly aspires to empower as many as 300,000 Australians with essential digital skills. Simultaneously, plans are afoot to augment a cyber threat information-sharing pact with Australia's premier cyber defense agency, the Australian Signals Directorate.

Also Read: Microsoft's Satya Nadella On AI Future: 'We Must Not Lose Control'

"This is a major investment in the skills and workers of the future," opined Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, as per the report. 

The report quoted Microsoft's managing director for Australia, Steven Worrall, who said the capital spent would "not only enable a safer and more secure digital economy, but also provide a platform to foster growth and innovation in the era of AI."

On the regulatory front, while Australia lacks explicit AI-focused laws, rights advocates and copyright attorneys have reportedly called for the imposition of checks and balances to shield against potential biases, intellectual property violations, and breaches of privacy.

Price Action: MSFT shares are trading higher by 0.83% at $329.37 on the last check Monday.

Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.