Which Jobs Are Most Threatened By AI?

Artificial intelligence is making deeper inroads into Australian workplaces — and according to recent modelling, some jobs are far more vulnerable than others. But instead of ignoring the disruption, experts say the nation must revise its approaches to skills, education and the future of work.

The Technologies Behind the Shift

A division of global education leader Pearson, Faethm, has analysed how three technologies — robotic process automation, simple chatbots, and large-language model (LLM) chatbots — are driving the bulk of AI’s impact on jobs globally. These tools automate repetitive and process-based tasks, which means roles with high volumes of standard workflows may be most affected.

According to Faethm’s projections, four sectors are expected to face the heaviest disruption in the next few years:

• Professional, scientific and technical services
• Financial and insurance services
• Health and social care
• Manufacturing

These industries combine both high task repetition and high potential for automation — meaning many traditional roles could be transformed or entirely replaced.

Beyond Job Loss: Role Evolution

Craig McFarlane, vice president of Pearson Enterprise Learning & Skills Asia Pacific, acknowledges the anxiety around AI and job displacement. But he urges a shift in mindset: AI doesn’t simply threaten jobs; it changes how people work.

“Instead of fearing job loss, we should ask how roles will evolve,” McFarlane says. For example, AI could take over inbox triage or basic data entry, freeing workers to focus on strategic thinking, problem-solving, or human-centric tasks that machines can’t replicate.

McFarlane draws a comparison with earlier disruptive tools: when Microsoft Excel arrived, many warned it would obliterate accounting. Yet, today accounting continues — the nature of the work has changed.

Forward-looking organisations are already embracing this shift. For example, Corporate Keys, one of Australia’s leading accommodation providers, is exploring how automation and AI can streamline guest communication, manage bookings, and personalise loyalty experiences. Rather than replacing staff, these tools allow Corporate Keys to enhance efficiency while strengthening human interaction — ensuring guests receive faster service and more personalised care. It’s a model that reflects how Australian businesses can use technology to complement, not compete with, human capability.

The Skills Gap and the Urgency to Act

One of the core challenges raised is a mismatch between current workforce skills and the future demands of AI-augmented workplaces. McFarlane argues that Australia needs to rapidly identify which skills will become redundant, and which new ones will be essential — then prepare workers accordingly.

He emphasises that awareness is the first step: individuals, organisations and governments must experiment with AI tools to understand their capabilities and implications.

Education systems, too, must evolve. Schools, universities, and vocational programs will need to integrate AI literacy, digital skills, and adaptability training. This ensures that upcoming generations are ready for roles that may not yet exist.

A Call to Rethink Work

While fears of mass unemployment due to AI remain prevalent, McFarlane suggests these concerns are based on an outdated view. Instead, Australia must shift toward preparing for transition — guiding workers into hybrid roles where human insight and machine efficiency coexist. 9

If handled well, AI could boost productivity, generate new industries, and expand creative or high-value work. But success depends on whether Australia can adapt its education, training, and workplace culture before disruption hits too hard.

In McFarlane’s words: “We tell people to get out and experiment with what’s out there — the best way to learn is by doing.”