One in Four Australian Employees Prohibited from Utilizing AI in the Workplace

A new report from EY highlights that a significant number of Australian workers are restricted from using artificial intelligence (AI) tools at work, despite a growing interest in AI across the workforce. The EY Australian AI Workforce Blueprint reveals that 26% of Australian employees who use computers in their daily roles are not allowed to utilise AI as per their employer’s policies. This report is based on a national survey of 1,003 workers and examines the current use of AI in workplaces, the concerns surrounding it, and the level of support and training provided. Concerns regarding potential data breaches and regulatory compliance are prevalent, with 72% of respondents expressing anxiety about these issues. Although 68% of workers report using AI in some capacity, many remain uncertain about its appropriate use. Nearly half of the surveyed employees (42%) have not received a clear rationale for AI’s application in their roles, leading to confusion and hesitation.

The report indicates a trust crisis in Australian workplaces, where enthusiasm for AI coexists with a lack of confidence due to insufficient guidance and support from leadership. Katherine Boiciuc, EY Regional Chief Technology and Innovation Officer, Oceania, emphasises the need for a human-centric approach to AI deployment to foster trust and confidence among employees. Despite barriers, a notable portion of the workforce engages with AI regularly, with 26% using it daily and 64% acknowledging its positive impact on their work. Among daily users, 30% report saving four or more hours per week, indicating significant productivity potential. However, only 35% have received formal AI training from their employers, and 54% express low confidence in their AI skills. Two-thirds of employees desire more structured AI training, particularly in areas such as basic interactions, ethical use, and continuous learning. The findings suggest that fostering a supportive culture is essential for unlocking the full potential of AI in the workplace. 

Categories: Workplace AI Adoption, Employee Concerns and Trust, Training and Support Needs 

Tags: Australian Workers, Artificial Intelligence, Employer Prohibition, Data Concerns, Regulatory Rules, Workplace Culture, Productivity Gains, AI Training, Employee Support, Trust Crisis