The most powerful Australian technology leaders in 2026
by Paul Smith · Australian Financial ReviewPaul SmithTechnology editor
Sep 22, 2026 – 5.00am
While those in the tech industry all outwardly hail the brilliance of AI, its capabilities (and the perception of its future capabilities) have caused major problems for the country’s two biggest tech companies. How their respective leaders navigate the choppy waters will be of huge significance far beyond the four walls of their offices.
We’ve excluded politicians from this sectoral power list, so as to focus on the industry’s players. Andrew Charlton, assistant minister for science, technology and the digital economy, deserves a nod for his work in trying to advance data centre and AI laws. That said, local policy progress has been glacial compared to the breakneck pace of the sector.
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Paul SmithTechnology editorPaul Smith edits the technology coverage and has been a leading writer on the sector for 20 years. He covers big tech, artificial intelligence, business use of tech, the fast-growing Australian tech industry and start-ups, and national innovation policy from our Sydney newsroom. Send tips to @sayssmithy.99 on encrypted messaging platform Signal. Connect with Paul on Twitter. Email Paul at psmith@afr.com
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