Australia Bans Chinese AI Firm DeepSeek from Government Devices

By Evans Momodu
1 minute read

The Australian government has banned the use of DeepSeek AI products on all government devices, citing national security concerns over the Chinese AI startup.

The Department of Home Affairs issued a directive mandating all government agencies to remove and prevent the use of DeepSeek’s applications, products, and web services on government systems.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke stated that DeepSeek poses an "unacceptable risk" to government technology and that the ban is essential to protect national security.
The ban does not extend to private citizens, meaning individuals and businesses can still use the AI platform.

DeepSeek recently shook the AI industry with the launch of an ultra-efficient AI model that operates at a fraction of the cost of competitors, using less advanced chips. The development caused tech stocks to plunge, raising concerns over the West’s multi-billion-dollar investments in AI infrastructure.

Italy has already taken similar action against the company, and other European and international governments are reportedly evaluating potential restrictions.

Australia’s move reflects growing tensions over AI security risks linked to China, as Western nations tighten controls on emerging technologies with potential geopolitical implications.
Source: CNN