Jul 19, 2026 – 12.00pmWhen Prime Minister Anthony Albanese outlined his vision for Australia’s artificial intelligence future inside Sydney University’s ornate Great Hall on Wednesday afternoon, many in the room seemed entranced by the prospect of a modern-day gold rush.Guest of honour Robin Khuda was lauded as the north star for success, having grown AirTrunk into a data centre empire that earned him a $24 billion pay day from investment giant Blackstone.Subscribe to gift this articleGift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe.Subscribe nowAlready a subscriber? 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.Fetching latest articles