OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT and a leading force in generative AI, confirmed today that it will open its first Australian office in Sydney later this year. The move comes amid a surge in local interest and adoption of the company’s AI tools.
Why Sydney Matters
OpenAI’s latest data shows that Australian users are embracing its technology at a rapid pace:
- ChatGPT usage in Australia has more than doubled (2.5×) over the past year.
- The country now ranks among the top ten global markets for both ChatGPT subscribers and developers building on OpenAI’s API.
With over 700 million weekly active users worldwide, five million paying business customers, and four million developers on its platform, OpenAI views Australia as a key growth hub.
Partnerships Already in Place
The company isn’t starting from scratch. It already collaborates with several high‑profile Australian organisations:
| Partner | What They’re Doing |
|---|---|
| Commonwealth Bank of Australia | Multi‑year strategic partnership to embed advanced AI into banking services for customers and staff. |
| Atlassian & Canva | Australian‑founded tech giants are building new products and features powered by OpenAI’s models. |
| University of New South Wales (UNSW) | Providing secure access to AI tools for researchers, educators, and students. |
These collaborations demonstrate how AI is already helping Australian businesses tackle challenging problems, enhance productivity, and introduce innovative services.
What the Sydney Office Will Bring
The Sydney office will enable OpenAI to directly support the expanding community of students, teachers, developers, and enterprises that rely on its tools, while also allowing the company to engage closely with policymakers and align its efforts with Australia’s AI Capability Plan—a national strategy focused on bolstering AI talent, investment, and economic resilience. By establishing a physical presence, OpenAI can host events and forge partnerships that nurture the local startup and developer ecosystems, fostering collaboration and innovation throughout the region. The company has formally registered an Australian entity and begun hiring a local team, though the exact office location remains undisclosed.
“Australia’s government, businesses, and world-class developer ecosystem are already shaping the future of AI. We’re excited to expand our presence in Australia and build a local team to work closely with partners, customers, and the millions of Australians who use ChatGPT daily.”
OpenAI Chief Operating Officer Brad Lightcap
Looking Ahead
OpenAI’s Sydney office signals a deepening commitment to the Australian market, aligning with the nation’s push to become a global leader in AI. While details on the office’s exact address and upcoming initiatives are still pending, the company promises further announcements later this year.
For Australians curious about AI, the new office could mean easier access to cutting‑edge tools, more local events, and stronger ties between industry, academia, and government—all aimed at turning AI potential into everyday reality.
