Australian workers lack AI support as job security fears grow

Australian workers are increasingly anxious about the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence in the workplace, with a significant majority saying their employers are failing to provide the necessary support and training to prepare for the future. New research from people2people Recruitment indicates that seven in ten employees feel unprepared for an AI-driven working environment.

Generational divide

According to the survey, Baby Boomers are the most likely to feel unsupported, with 76% reporting a lack of employer preparation. Millennials and Gen Z workers followed closely at 71%, while 58% of Gen X respondents also expressed concerns. Despite common perceptions that younger generations are more technologically adept, many still feel unprepared specifically for the challenges posed by AI.

Only 17% of surveyed employers currently provide any AI-related training, structured learning, or support. This shortfall is fuelling uncertainty and disengagement across industries.

"Many Australians are eager to understand how AI can help them in their jobs, but they're not always being given the tools or training to do so. The conversation about AI in the workplace is happening, but too few employers are following through with practical guidance. That gap is leading to real uncertainty about what the future holds," said Suhini Wijayasinghe, Head of HR Solutions, people2people Recruitment.

Job security fears

The research also reveals widespread concerns about job security and skill relevance as AI tools automate a growing range of work functions. Nearly three in ten believe AI will eventually replace their role entirely, and a further 30% expect parts of their job to be automated. Nearly four in ten workers are worried about the impact on their job prospects in 2026.

Millennials and Gen Z are the most concerned about future job prospects at 50%, compared to 34% for Baby Boomers and 29% for Gen X. The anxiety extends beyond the possibility of job loss, reflecting uncertainty about whether current skillsets will remain relevant.

"The fear we're seeing isn't just about job loss, it's about being left behind. Without clear communication or upskilling pathways, many workers are left wondering how relevant their skills will be in just a few years' time," said Wijayasinghe.

Uneven adoption

The spread of AI across the workforce is not uniform. One in four Australian workers are currently using AI as part of their regular job responsibilities. Over half (58%) say AI has already changed the way they work. Daily AI tool usage stands at 22%, while 17% are experimenting without clear guidance. Fifteen percent of workers say they do not know how to use AI at all, with this figure rising to 20% among Baby Boomers.

This uneven landscape is creating a clear divide between early adopters who are benefiting from AI and others who feel left behind.

"AI is already integrated into many white-collar roles, from marketing to administration. But adoption is uneven. In many workplaces, it's a handful of early adopters leading the way, while others are still trying to catch up, or simply don't know where to begin," said Wijayasinghe.

Call for employer action

The survey results point to strong support for more structured, accessible, and inclusive AI training programmes. Many employees are open to adapting but say they need clear leadership, education, and reassurance from their organisations.

"This is a pivotal moment for employers. The workforce is ready and willing to learn, but they need leadership, education, and reassurance. By investing in AI literacy today, employers can reduce fear, boost engagement, and future-proof their teams for tomorrow's opportunities," said Wijayasinghe.