Australian HR professionals optimistic about AI benefits

Research conducted by the Australian HR Institute in partnership with Queensland University of Technology highlights the dual perspectives HR professionals have regarding the implementation of AI in the workplace.

The "State of AI in Australian Human Resources" report indicates that a significant majority of HR professionals in Australia are optimistic about the potential of artificial intelligence, particularly in terms of enhancing productivity and performance. Specifically, 86% of those surveyed forecast an improvement in productivity due to AI, while 81% believe it will enhance job performance. This data underscores a prevalent confidence in AI's capacity to drive workplace efficiency.

Despite this optimism, there are concerns regarding data security and the quality of data underpinning AI systems. The report notes that 66% of respondents view data and security risks as a primary worry, with 49% expressing anxiety over AI's dependence on potentially inaccurate or biased data. Additionally, 27% of HR professionals raised concerns about the risk of discrimination resulting from AI deployment.

To mitigate these risks, the report suggests the establishment of clear organisational guidelines that focus on responsible AI usage and policies to minimise data security issues.

Interestingly, less than a quarter of the professionals surveyed, 21%, expressed apprehension about possible job losses either personally or within their organisations, suggesting that AI is generally seen as complementing rather than replacing human roles. In relation to job security, 82% of respondents expressed disagreement to various degrees with the idea that their jobs could be at risk due to AI, and 65% shared the same sentiment concerning their organisations.

AI is predominantly used in HR for operational tasks, hinting at a substantial opportunity to utilise AI capabilities for strategic advantage. The survey results show that 48% believe AI allows middle management and supervisors to focus more on strategic activities, though some acknowledge the speed of technological advancement can be daunting.

There is also recognition of AI's potential to reduce workplace stress, with 62% agreeing that it can help alleviate stress for employees.

Furthermore, 51% of participants indicated that the adoption of AI within their HR departments has been sluggish. This reflects a broader need for improved knowledge and skills related to AI both within HR and across larger organisational contexts.

AHRI CEO Sarah McCann-Bartlett commented on the findings, stating, "HR professionals have an opportunity to lead the way in terms of AI adoption but in order to do this, they need to upskill and remain fully up-to-date with the latest developments in order to contribute fully to the strategy and direction of the organisation."

McCann-Bartlett also noted, "It's important to note that adopting AI alone won't automatically lead to productivity gains. We have seen the adoption of automation and AI for some time now, but this has not translated into additional productivity growth for the Australian economy."

She emphasised, "To unlock its full potential, organisations should adopt a suite of complementary HR practices, such as widespread investment in training, information sharing, employee consultation and empowerment as well as ethical guidelines, to ensure AI adoption is both productive and equitable."