Should Governments Get a Slice of AI Profits?

You might have heard a lot about how artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the world, but not so much about how the profits from this new technology might be shared around. A recent proposal from OpenAI, one of the biggest names in AI, has brought this discussion right to the forefront. They suggested giving governments a small slice – 5% – of their future success.

This idea came about as a way to get ahead of any potential backlash against AI and to build better relationships with powerful figures, particularly in the US government. The thinking was that if governments had a stake, they might be more supportive of AI development and less likely to introduce strict rules that could slow things down. It's a bit like giving someone a share in your business to get them on your side.

However, some people are raising concerns about this approach. Is 5% really enough, especially if AI creates massive wealth but also causes job losses or other problems for society? Critics argue that this kind of deal might just be a way to buy influence without genuinely addressing the bigger questions around AI's impact. There's also the question of transparency: who decides how this money is used, and will it genuinely benefit the public?

For everyday Australians, these discussions might seem far off, but they're important. The way AI companies interact with governments today will shape how this technology is regulated and how its benefits (and risks) are distributed in the future. It could affect everything from new laws around AI use in business to how much support is available for workers whose jobs might change because of AI. It’s a complex issue with no easy answers, but one worth keeping an eye on as AI continues to evolve.