Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing workplaces across Australia, but a new federal government report suggests widespread job losses have not yet materialised. While the labour market remains resilient, the review identifies several occupations that could face greater disruption as AI technologies become more capable and widely adopted.
The findings come as the Albanese government prepares to unveil updated policies aimed at regulating and managing AI across industry, the economy and public safety.
Government Report Highlights Occupations Most Exposed to AI
According to the newly released AI and Employment in Australia report, produced using data from Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA), workers in certain occupations face a higher risk of being affected by AI-driven automation.
The report identifies telemarketers, advertising professionals and accountants among the occupations considered most exposed to potential displacement by artificial intelligence.
Other roles highlighted as having elevated exposure include:
- Clerical workers
- Retail managers
- Software programmers
- Receptionists
- Advertising and marketing professionals
- Accountants
The analysis found that employees in these occupations are more likely to be women and more likely to hold university qualifications.
The report marks the first time the Australian Government has conducted a comprehensive national assessment of AI’s potential impact on employment across different occupations.
Women and Degree Holders More Likely to Work in High-Exposure Roles
One of the report’s key findings is that occupations considered more vulnerable to AI disruption tend to employ a higher proportion of women and university-educated workers.
This contrasts with many previous technological shifts, which often had greater impacts on manual or routine physical jobs. AI’s ability to process information, analyse data and generate content means many professional and administrative roles may experience significant workplace transformation.
However, the report does not suggest these jobs will disappear entirely. Instead, AI is expected to alter how work is performed, with some tasks becoming automated while others continue to require human oversight, judgement and interpersonal skills.
Trades and Aged Care Among the Least Exposed Occupations
The report found that workers with higher levels of vocational education and training are generally less exposed to AI-related displacement.
Occupations considered least vulnerable include many trades and care-based roles, where practical skills, physical work and direct human interaction remain difficult to automate.
Tradespeople and aged care workers were specifically identified among those facing the lowest levels of AI exposure.
These occupations typically require hands-on expertise, adaptability in real-world environments and interpersonal engagement, areas where current AI systems have limited capability.
Labour Market Remains Strong Despite AI Growth
Employment Minister Amanda Rishworth said the findings indicate that, despite growing AI adoption, Australia’s labour market continues to perform well.
“Artificial intelligence could yet reshape the jobs market in Australia, but this report shows labour market conditions remain strong by historical standards, youth outcomes have mostly held up, and occupational reshuffling has not accelerated,” Rishworth said.
She added that the government’s focus is on ensuring technological change benefits workers rather than undermining employment opportunities.
“Government is determined to ensure AI is harnessed to create good jobs, not threaten them. We will continue to make sure Australians are supported through this change, with the skills, training and pathways needed to adapt and benefit.”
AI Regulation Plans Expected Soon
The report arrives ahead of anticipated government announcements on updated AI policy settings. The Albanese government is expected to outline new measures covering AI governance, economic impacts, industry development and safety safeguards.
As businesses increasingly integrate AI into everyday operations, policymakers face growing pressure to balance innovation with workforce protections and responsible use of emerging technologies.
The government has indicated it will continue monitoring AI-related employment trends and publish regular updates to track how the technology affects Australian workers and industries over time.
Looking Ahead
While artificial intelligence has not yet triggered widespread job losses in Australia, the government’s first national assessment highlights clear differences in how various occupations may be affected. Women and university graduates appear more likely to work in roles exposed to AI-driven change, while vocationally trained workers, including tradespeople and aged care employees, remain comparatively insulated. As AI adoption accelerates, ongoing monitoring and workforce adaptation will be central to ensuring Australians can benefit from the technology while maintaining strong employment outcomes.
Cory Weinberg is a contributor to Sproutwired.com, covering a wide range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment and lifestyle. He focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting that helps readers stay informed about current events and emerging developments. Cory’s work highlights relevant stories, practical insights and important issues affecting communities and industries, with an emphasis on accuracy, clarity and information that readers can trust.
