Tech founders use AI-generated images to poke fun at Anthony Albanese in protest against tax…

In May 2026, tech entrepreneurs used AI-generated images of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to protest proposed changes to capital gains tax (CGT). The images were posted to social media to mock the government's policy and highlight potential negative consequences for the startup ecosystem.

What happened

Several tech founders posted AI-generated images depicting Albanese as their "new founder" in their offices. These images satirized the Prime Minister working with staff, coding, and engaging with customers. The founders warned that the proposed CGT changes, which replace a 50% tax discount with "cost-base indexation" and a minimum 30% tax rate, could discourage innovation, make it harder to attract talent, and potentially drive startups overseas. They argued that the changes would reduce the incentive to grow businesses and take risks, as a larger portion of their earnings would be subject to tax. The founders expressed concern that Australia would miss out on future successful companies if incentives were not in place to support early-stage businesses.