Google's AI Overviews have transformed search results. Instead of just ranking pages, Google now synthesizes information from multiple sources into AI-generated answers—and being cited as a source is the new competitive advantage.
For Melbourne businesses, appearing in AI Overviews means premium visibility at the very top of search results, often before traditional organic listings.
What Are Google AI Overviews?
AI Overviews (formerly Search Generative Experience or SGE) are AI-generated summaries that appear for certain search queries. They:
- Synthesize information from multiple web sources
- Provide comprehensive answers to user questions
- Cite sources with clickable links
- Appear above traditional search results
Key Insight: Being cited in AI Overviews provides brand visibility even when users don't click through—your business name appears as a trusted source at the top of Google.
How to Optimise for AI Overviews
1. Create Comprehensive, Authoritative Content
AI Overviews pull from content that thoroughly covers topics. Create in-depth guides that address multiple aspects of a subject, not thin content targeting single keywords.
2. Structure Content for AI Extraction
Use clear headings, bullet points, and structured information that AI can easily parse and cite. Include:
- Clear definitions and explanations
- Step-by-step processes
- Lists of key points
- Data and statistics with sources
3. Answer Questions Directly
AI Overviews often respond to questions. Include FAQ sections and provide direct, quotable answers to common questions in your industry.
4. Build Topical Authority
Create content clusters around your expertise areas. Sites with comprehensive coverage of topics are more likely to be cited as authoritative sources.
5. Implement Structured Data
Schema markup helps Google understand your content's context. Use FAQ, HowTo, and Article schema to increase chances of being cited. See our Technical SEO guides for implementation details.
Content Types That Perform Well
- How-to guides with clear step-by-step instructions
- Comparison content that evaluates options objectively
- Explanatory content that defines concepts clearly
- Data-driven content with original research or statistics
- Expert opinions from credentialed sources
Monitoring AI Overview Appearances
Track your AI Overview visibility through search monitoring tools, manual searches for target queries, and click-through analysis in Search Console.
For comprehensive AI search optimisation strategies, explore our complete guide to visibility across all AI platforms.