Australia’s digital asset industry is showing renewed optimism following the appointment of Andrew Charlton as Assistant Minister for the Digital Economy, Artificial Intelligence, and other emerging technologies. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during a press conference in Canberra on May 12, marking a significant shift in the government’s approach to emerging tech sectors.
Charlton, known for his pro-crypto stance, will work alongside Tim Ayres, Minister for Industry and Innovation, to steer national policies across science, technology, innovation, and the digital economy. The duo is expected to drive Australia’s strategic positioning in the rapidly advancing global tech landscape.
Charlon has previously voiced strong support for a forward-thinking and balanced approach to regulating digital assets. In a parliamentary address last November, he advocated for a framework that promotes innovation while ensuring investor protection — a sentiment echoed by key players in the crypto space.
Edward Carroll, head of global markets and corporate finance at MHC Digital Group, welcomed the appointment, stating that Charlton has long understood the value of fostering a robust and future-focused financial system.
“His specific support for digital assets and recognition of blockchain technology’s transformative potential, alongside the need to regulate it quickly and appropriately, should help Australia keep pace with the rapidly evolving global regulatory landscape,”
Carroll said.
The timing of Charlton’s appointment aligns with the country’s growing crypto adoption. According to April data from the Independent Reserve, 31% of Australian adults — approximately 6.2 million people — currently hold or have held digital assets, up from 28% the previous year.
Industry bodies are also lauding the government’s move. Damian Kassabgi, CEO of the Tech Council of Australia, described adding “digital economy” to Charlton’s ministerial title as a clear indication of the government’s commitment to future job growth and innovation.
The Labour government, reelected earlier this year, has already begun shaping its crypto regulatory agenda. In March, it proposed bringing crypto exchanges under existing financial services laws and has pledged to address longstanding issues like debanking.
If you want to read more news articles like this, visit DeFi Planet and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and CoinMarketCap Community.
“Take control of your crypto portfolio with MARKETS PRO, DeFi Planet’s suite of analytics tools.”
