How AI Is Changing How Customers Find Local Businesses in 2026
Picture this: your mate's looking for a sparkie in Bairnsdale, but instead of scrolling through Google results, they just ask ChatGPT "who's the best electrician in Bairnsdale?" If your business isn't set up for AI search, you won't even get a mention. Yeah, that's where we're headed.
Here's the straight answer: By end of 2026, 25% of all searches will be AI-powered. This means one in four of your potential customers will find businesses through ChatGPT, Google's AI Overviews, or Perplexity instead of traditional search results. If your business info isn't optimised for AI systems, you're invisible to this growing chunk of customers.
What's Actually Happening Right Now
Google rolled out AI Overviews to all Australian users in 2026. When someone searches "plumber near me Lakes Entrance", they get an AI-generated summary at the top before any traditional results. ChatGPT launched their search feature, and Perplexity is gaining serious traction, especially with younger customers who prefer conversational search.
A local cafe owner in Mallacoota told me their bookings dropped 15% until they figured out AI systems weren't picking up their business. Turns out, their Google Business Profile was incomplete and they had zero online reviews mentioning specific services.
The kicker? These AI systems don't just look at your website. They scan your Google Business Profile, reviews, social media, directory listings, everything. If there's conflicting info or gaps, you get skipped.
I can audit your online presence and make sure AI systems are actually picking up your business →
So What Does This Mean for Your Business?
Think about how people actually talk versus how they type. Instead of searching "accommodation Mallacoota", they're asking "where should I stay in Mallacoota for a fishing trip?" AI search is conversational, which changes everything.
Here's what I'm seeing work for regional businesses:
- Complete business profiles everywhere: Google Business Profile, Facebook, Instagram: same name, address, phone number, opening hours
- Natural language on your website: Write like people talk. "We fix blocked drains in East Gippsland" instead of "drainage solutions provider"
- Specific service pages: Don't just say "plumbing services". Create pages for "emergency plumbing Bairnsdale" and "hot water repairs Lakes Entrance"
- Local content that actually helps: "Best fishing spots near our accommodation" or "What to do in Mallacoota on a rainy day"
A tradie in Orbost started getting mentioned in AI search results after he added a simple FAQ page answering common questions like "How much does it cost to fix a leaking tap?" and "Do you work weekends?" AI systems love this stuff.
The Review Game Has Changed
Reviews were always important, but now they're critical for AI visibility. Here's why: when ChatGPT recommends a business, it often pulls specific details from reviews.
Instead of just asking for reviews, ask for specific ones. After fixing someone's hot water system, ask them to mention "fast emergency service" or "available weekends" in their review. AI systems pick up these details and use them when answering related questions.
The accommodation provider I work with in Genoa went from getting mentioned in zero AI responses to appearing in 60% of local accommodation queries after their reviews started mentioning specific amenities like "dog-friendly" and "close to beach access."
What You Need to Do This Week
Don't overthink this. Start with the basics:
- Audit your Google Business Profile: Complete every section, add photos, post regular updates
- Check your website loads fast: Use Google PageSpeed Insights. AI systems favour quick-loading sites
- Create a simple FAQ page: Answer the questions customers actually ask you
- Get your NAP consistent: Name, Address, Phone number should be identical everywhere online
- Ask for better reviews: Prompt customers to mention specific services or benefits
The businesses winning with AI search aren't doing anything fancy. They're just being thorough and consistent with basic business info.
Common Questions About AI Search
How do I know if AI systems can find my business?
Test it yourself. Ask ChatGPT or Google's AI about services in your area. If you're not mentioned, that's your answer. Check your Google Business Profile completeness and online review consistency.
Do I need to change my whole website for AI search?
Nah, mate. Focus on clear, helpful content that answers real customer questions. Your existing website is probably fine, just make sure it's fast and mobile-friendly.
How much does it cost to optimise for AI search?
Most of it's free: updating your Google Business Profile, asking for reviews, creating FAQ content. Professional help ranges from $500-$2000 depending on what needs fixing, but start with the free stuff first.
Look, AI search isn't going away. By 2026, if you're not findable by AI systems, you're missing out on a quarter of your potential customers. The good news? The basics haven't changed much, just be helpful, be consistent, and be where your customers are looking.
If you want a hand getting your business ready for AI search, have a yarn with me. I'll shoot straight about what actually needs fixing.
Wondering if any of this AI stuff is worth your time?
I use it every day to do real work for regional businesses. I'll show you what's worth setting up and what's just hype.
Ask me about AI