A recent report by the Australian Computer Society (ACS) paints a vivid picture of how critical technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), are poised to significantly impact the Australian workforce. The report estimates that over 95% of the workforce, translating to roughly 11.2 million employees, will be affected by these advancements.
The impact of these technologies will be wide-ranging, encompassing various fields. The ACS report identifies a broad spectrum of critical technologies that will influence the future of work, including generative AI, 3D printing (additive manufacturing), advanced data analytics, advanced robotics and sensors, cybersecurity, cloud computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), and virtual worlds.
“The impact of critical technologies on Australia’s workforce will be all-encompassing,” emphasizes the report. It elaborates on how tasks across various industries will be increasingly performed with the assistance of AI, robotics, advanced data analysis tools, virtual reality simulations, 3D printing technologies, and improved communication systems.
The report further highlights that by 2030, at least half of Australian businesses are expected to adopt these critical technologies. This shift necessitates the development of a skilled workforce equipped to handle these advancements. The report estimates a requirement for 1.8 million new tech-related skills within the workforce.
To effectively adapt to these 10 critical technologies, Australia needs an additional 1.3 million skilled workers, translating to a minimum annual increase of 60,000 tech professionals. However, the report raises crucial questions: “Who are these workers? What mix of skills do they need? Are they even ‘tech workers’ as we know them?”
The report acknowledges that as these critical technologies mature, entirely new and unforeseen job opportunities will emerge. It highlights potential roles like AI conceptualisation, which would require specialists in AI ethics, personality design for AI systems, and algorithm bias auditing. These professions currently might not exist or might be rooted in existing functions such as design, production, compliance, or finance.
The report warns that if the workforce fails to adapt through reskilling initiatives, Australia could face a significant tech labor shortage, potentially costing the nation $16 billion by 2030. To address this looming challenge, the report emphasizes the need for a collaborative effort from various stakeholders.
“We need national, state, and territory digital skill strategies and roadmaps,” the report suggests. “These roadmaps would enable us to identify and track progress in addressing reskilling needs across the entire workforce.”
The report advocates for a holistic approach that bridges the gap between IT graduates and experienced professionals, ultimately integrating them into Australia’s next-generation technology workforce. Additionally, it underscores the importance of career transition programs, streamlined mechanisms for skilled migrants to contribute their expertise, and fostering inclusivity within the workforce.
In conclusion, the ACS report serves as a wake-up call for Australia, highlighting the transformative impact of critical technologies on the job landscape. By proactively addressing the need for reskilling and fostering collaboration across various sectors, Australia can ensure a smooth transition into a future powered by automation and AI.
