Australian Workers Lead Global AI Adoption in Job Hunting, But Worry About Automation

A new study by Morgan McKinley reveals that 57% of Australian workers have used AI tools to support a job search or prepare for an interview, significantly above the global average of 43%. This positions Australia as a leader in AI adoption for career purposes.

However, the same research shows that 42% of Australian employees believe their role could be affected by restructuring, automation, or cost-cutting, compared to 37% worldwide. This dual reality—high AI usage alongside heightened concern—suggests workers are leveraging AI as a practical tool while also weighing its potential risks to their own jobs.

Skills Gap and Employer Investment

Globally, 70% of employees now rank AI and data skills as their top professional development priority. Yet 56% feel their employer is not investing enough in learning and development. This gap highlights growing expectations for companies to provide training as AI becomes more prevalent in recruitment and daily work.

Job Market Dynamics

Despite 63% of employers expecting no headcount reductions, 49% of employees plan to actively look for a new job in the next six months. Only 43% feel secure in their current role, and if they believed their job was at risk, 85% would start applying for new roles, while 64% would pursue new skills or certifications.

Pay Pressure

Nearly 70% of employees globally have not received a salary increase in the past six months, up from 65% a year earlier, adding to workforce strain.

Key Takeaways

• Australian workers are early adopters of AI in job hunting but also more worried about automation's impact.
• Employers face pressure to invest in AI-related training and communicate transparently about technological changes.
• The combination of high AI uptake and concern presents both an opportunity and a challenge for organizations.

As Dominic Bareham, Managing Director of Morgan McKinley Australia, notes: "The organisations that combine AI adoption with transparency and investment in people will be best placed to build confidence, retain talent and unlock the full benefits of AI."