Over the past year, it’s been incredible to see how Australians have embraced AI in various aspects of life, from work and education to entertainment.
A recent survey we conducted with IPSOS, as part of a global study spanning 21 countries, shows that a growing number of Australians are using AI. There’s been a noticeable increase compared to last year. The poll, which included 1,000 Aussies, highlights the rising use of AI in the workplace and a budding belief in its potential to enhance lives and stimulate the economy.
Growing Use and Optimism Around AI in Australia
AI adoption has surged globally, and Australia is leading the charge. Now, 49% of Australians report using Generative AI within the last year, up from 38% in 2023. While some concerns still linger compared to other nations, Australians are feeling more optimistic and less anxious about AI than they were a year ago. The survey shows that 52% of respondents believe AI will benefit people like them, a notable rise from 46% last year. Moreover, more Australians who think AI will transform jobs and industries in the next five years are viewing this change positively (47%, up from 40%). Looking ahead, Australians are most enthusiastic about AI helping them find information online (59% excited) and personal assistants that can aid with shopping, scheduling, and trip planning (55%), as well as tutors or homework helpers (51%).
AI Becoming a Staple in Aussie Workplaces
AI is quickly becoming a must-have tool in Australian workplaces, with 74% of AI users saying they use it for work. It’s not just about boosting productivity; it’s about helping workers think more strategically. Many use AI for writing (75% of workplace users), brainstorming ideas (69%), and problem-solving (70%), as well as to digest lengthy documents (68%) or complex data (60%). Aussies see the most valuable AI applications in the workplace as those that enable the use of complex data or systems (82% consider them important) and those that aid in solving business problems (79%).
Looking ahead, more Australians believe that AI will free up time for workers to focus on the more fulfilling aspects of their jobs (54%) than think that AI will lead to greater demands on employees to accomplish more with less (46%). Additionally, more people who foresee job changes due to AI in the next five years believe that such changes will be beneficial (47%, an increase from 40%).
AI’s Potential to Boost Australia’s Productivity and Tackle Challenges
Australians are eager about the societal benefits of AI, especially in fields like scientific research and healthcare. A significant 68% expect AI to positively influence science, just ahead of medicine at 67%. Optimism also extends to vital areas like agriculture (55%) and cybersecurity (47%). There’s been a noticeable rise in optimism regarding AI’s economic impact. Now, 39% of Australians believe AI will improve the economy, compared to just 29% last year. Furthermore, fewer workers who think they’ll be affected by AI believe they’ll need to switch roles or industries (12% this year, down from 20% in 2023).
As more individuals experience the practical benefits of AI, they’re beginning to appreciate its capacity to drive progress and solve problems. These findings, especially concerning adoption and optimism, bode well for Australia’s future and our economy. While various factors contribute to growth, the widespread acceptance of transformative technologies like AI by consumers and businesses could significantly impact Australia’s productivity.
It’s fantastic to witness Australia moving from mere experimentation to real action, using AI to deliver tangible benefits. The potential gains for our economy are exciting. Australians can take pride in the fact that our country is leading the way in applying AI to tackle these issues. This dedication is at the heart of our $1 billion Digital Future Initiative, where we’re collaborating with top Australian organisations to apply AI to areas such as enhancing healthcare and protecting our natural wildlife.
