Several Australian tech founders have responded to the federal government's proposed changes to the capital gains tax (CGT) by posting AI-generated images of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in their workplaces.

The changes, which would replace the 50% CGT discount with cost-base indexation and set a minimum 30% tax rate, have raised concerns among startup founders who often offer equity to employees as part of compensation.

Entrepreneurs warn that higher taxes could reduce incentives for risk-taking, make it harder to attract talent, and potentially push startups to relocate overseas.

Industry figures like the Tech Council of Australia, Boost Juice cofounder Janine Allis, and economists including Saul Eslake have highlighted the need to balance taxation with support for innovation.

While Albanese and Treasurer Jim Chalmers have emphasised ongoing consultation with the sector and pointed to other incentives such as R&D tax benefits, founders remain wary that CGT changes could impact early-stage companies disproportionately.

The AI-generated images, showing Albanese coding, sleeping, or exercising in startups’ offices, serve as a humorous but pointed critique of the proposed reforms and their potential impact on Australia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.