Perth, April 2: Millions of Australians are worried artificial intelligence could cost them their jobs, according to new research from Finder.
A survey of 669 working Australians found 9% believe their job will “definitely” be replaced by AI, while another 21% said they are worried, but unsure if it will happen. Finder said this equates to about 4.2 million workers feeling less secure in their roles.
Gen Z workers were the most concerned, with 38% saying they think they will be replaced by AI, followed by 34% of millennials.
Graham Cooke, head of consumer research at Finder, said it was a scary reality for some.
“For millions of workers AI feels like a very real threat to their pay packet and their financial security.
“The risk isn’t just about robots taking over jobs, it’s about roles quietly shrinking, hours being cut and fewer opportunities coming through the door.
“Workers who keep upskilling and adapting will be far harder to replace. Over the next few years, those who use AI to make themselves more efficient are less likely to have their jobs cut because of AI.”
The research also found 20% of employed Australians believe their job is safe, but expect companies to hire fewer people in similar roles in future, while 50% said they were not worried at all.
Cooke said workers should prepare now rather than assume they are safe.
“Don’t put your head in the sand about the threat of AI on the jobs market.
“In a fast-moving tech cycle, no employee can afford complacency.
“The best defence is preparation – build a 3 to 6 month emergency savings fund, consider income protection, and future-proof your skills now so you’re not scrambling if the AI axe does fall.”
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