Sydney, Aug 14, 2025 — A landmark report by Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) has revealed which occupations are most vulnerable to automation and which will remain resilient as artificial intelligence continues to reshape the workforce.
White-Collar Roles Face Highest Risk
According to the study, roles in sales, marketing, public relations, programming, clerical support, and business analysis are among the most exposed to AI replacement. These positions often involve repetitive or text-heavy tasks that AI can perform faster and more cost-effectively.
Human-Centric Jobs Prove Resilient
In contrast, sectors that rely on physical labor, interpersonal skills, and real-time judgment—such as nursing, construction, mining, hospitality, cleaning, and business administration management—are expected to see continued demand. These roles are considered AI-resistant due to their reliance on adaptability, empathy, and manual dexterity.
AI as a Workplace Tool, Not a Replacement
The report emphasizes that most jobs will be augmented rather than replaced by AI. While automation will change how tasks are performed, it will not eliminate the need for human oversight in many industries.
Call for AI Literacy and Vocational Training
JSA Commissioner Professor Barney Glover urged the integration of AI literacy into vocational and higher education to prepare both current and future workers. He stressed that “understanding how to use AI effectively will be as important as technical skills in the coming years.”
Equity Concerns for Vulnerable Groups
The report warns that women, older workers, people with disabilities, and First Nations Australians face a disproportionate risk of displacement due to their higher representation in easily automated roles and limited access to digital skills training.
Unregulated AI Use on the Rise
The study also notes a surge in “shadow AI” use—where employees adopt AI tools without official approval. While it can boost productivity, this trend raises concerns over governance, accountability, and potential mental fatigue from verifying AI outputs.
Key Takeaway
The JSA report underscores that while AI will transform workplaces, human skills remain irreplaceable in many sectors. The future of work will depend not just on technology, but on how well the workforce adapts through education, policy, and equitable access to AI tools.
