Australians express mixed feelings on AI in workplaces

A recent report by EY reveals mixed sentiments among Australians regarding the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the workplace.

The 'Australian AI Sentiment Report', based on a survey of over 1,000 people, provides insights into how Australians view AI from personal, professional, and social perspectives. The emerging role of social AI and the appeal of socially skilled virtual assistants were also examined.

Findings from the report indicate that 52% of Australians support the use of AI by companies to automate routine tasks. However, there is less enthusiasm for AI in a more personal capacity, with 37% comfortable with employers providing personal AI assistants for administrative tasks and training.

The report highlights growing concerns over job security, with 55% worried AI could lead to job losses, a sentiment especially strong among those in manual labour or skilled trades (65%) and among women (59% compared to 51% of men).

There is significant discomfort regarding AI's monitoring capabilities in the workplace. Forty percent of respondents are uneasy about AI being used to monitor employee behaviours, while 46% express discomfort with AI making recommendations to improve efficiency.

Nearly half (49%) of respondents are uneasy with AI analysing performance and influencing performance reviews. Additionally, 52% are uncomfortable with the use of chatbots for interviewing job candidates and making hiring recommendations.

Concerns also extend to customers and consumers. Sixty-two percent are wary of companies using AI to manipulate their perceptions, and 60% are troubled by businesses employing AI without notification.

Only 37% appreciate AI suggesting unconsidered products, and a mere 31% favour the use of chatbots for customer service.

Katherine Boiciuc, EY Oceania Chief Technology and Innovation Officer, commented on these findings, "Innovation versus insecurity, progress versus privacy, benefits versus public sentiment – these are some of the challenges Australian businesses face as they look to integrate AI into the workplace."

Boiciuc noted the divided sentiment towards AI, acknowledging both the potential benefits for productivity and work-life balance and the significant concerns over employment implications, workplace culture, and privacy.

She stated, "One in two colleagues say they're concerned about job security in the face of AI. This concern is more pronounced among those in manual labour/skilled trades and among women – suggesting it is already playing on existing job insecurities in sectors more susceptible to automation."

The report notes that AI's role as a workplace supervisor raises concerns, particularly regarding the monitoring of behaviours and performance evaluations. "It's not just employees that are divided on AI, it's also customers. There are deep-rooted concerns about privacy and transparency, particularly when it comes to marketing tactics," Boiciuc added.

She stressed the importance of addressing these fears constructively, recommending businesses engage openly with their workforce and customers. "To address these fears, businesses should engage with their workforce and customers openly, highlighting how AI can support rather than replace them, and set up frameworks for managing data and privacy."

Boiciuc also emphasised the role of education and involvement in easing AI-related concerns, suggesting training sessions and active involvement in decision-making as effective strategies.

Boiciuc concluded, advocating for a gradual approach to AI adoption through pilot programmes that can demonstrate AI's positive impacts. "We know the use of AI will continue to grow across all facets of our lives – so it's important businesses get it right as they look to introduce these tools."