Australian Tech Founders Shifted Bases Overseas in 2026
Entrepreneurs are relocating to hubs like Singapore to navigate new tax policies and access innovation incentives.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Startups
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In 2026, Australian tech entrepreneurs accelerated relocation to international hubs including Singapore and Dubai. This shift follows major Australian capital gains tax reforms and significant regional investment pledges in competing markets.
Why it matters
Changes to Australia's capital gains tax regime, including the pending move to a 30 per cent minimum rate, are driving founders to reassess their tax residency. These firms are increasingly leveraging international ecosystems to access stability and scale.
Professional service firms reported a 150 per cent surge in inquiries during the first nine months of 2026. This follows Australia's announcement of a minimum 30 per cent tax on gains beginning July 1, 2027, replacing the current 50 per cent discount.
The players
Ben Lindsay
An Australian technology entrepreneur who established a base in Singapore.
Adrian Portelli
An investor and entrepreneur who shifted operations to Dubai.
Fred Schebesta
An entrepreneur who relocated to Singapore in late 2026.
The details
Founders are shifting operations to jurisdictions with more favorable tax structures and research funding, such as Singapore, which committed S$37 billion to innovation over five years starting April 2026. Corporate service providers are managing these moves by setting up regional business hubs to maintain reach. These shifts are designed to capitalize on international pro-business environments while mitigating the impact of incoming domestic tax mandates.
Timeline
March 2026: Ben Lindsay relocated from Sydney to Singapore.
April 2026: Singapore launched a five-year, S$37 billion innovation investment.
May 2026: Australia announced major capital gains tax reforms.
August 2026: Adrian Portelli announced a move to Dubai.
July 1, 2027: Australia implements a minimum 30 per cent tax on gains.
Market Landscape
This trend follows the implementation of Australian capital gains tax reforms that alter the long-standing 50 per cent discount model. The move reflects a broader pivot by founders toward environments offering state-backed innovation support, contrasting with Australia's tightening tax environment.
Owners should monitor the impact of the new 30 per cent minimum capital gains tax on their specific exit or divestment strategies. If you operate cross-border, consult with tax counsel to evaluate whether current residency status remains optimized for your long-term growth objectives.
The takeaway
The competitive landscape for talent and capital is shifting as founders prioritize stability and tax efficiency over local presence. Operators should review their capital structure now to prepare for the July 2027 tax change by consulting with qualified financial advisors.
Further reading
For more on how startups scale internationally, visit our Startups section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by South China Morning Post.
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