Survey reveals burnout crisis among Australian knowledge workers

A new global survey commissioned by UiPath has revealed that a significant majority of Australian knowledge workers are experiencing burnout. The survey, which included responses from more than 1100 Australian workers, found that 82% feel burnt out, with over a third (36%) feeling very or extremely burnt out, the highest rate among all countries surveyed.

According to the survey, most Australian workers are looking for a reduced workload (62%), increased transparency from their leadership teams (41%), and more time to complete tasks (38%) as measures to mitigate burnout. Additionally, around 30% of respondents expressed a desire for access to artificial intelligence (AI) and automation tools to alleviate their workload and reduce burnout.

The UiPath Global Knowledge Worker survey gathered responses from over 9,000 knowledge workers across Australia, Asia Pacific, the United Kingdom, and EMEA. In Australia, the participants represented sectors such as professional services, government, education, finance, real estate, and healthcare. The demographic breakdown showed that Millennials comprised 52% of respondents, Generation Z 21%, and Generation X 22%.

Survey results highlighted that one in four knowledge workers (25%) using generative AI (Gen AI) and automation reported several benefits. These included increased productivity from completing tasks more quickly (42%), more accurate work (36%), improved job satisfaction (35%), better work-life balance (33%), and reduced burnout (30%).

Further insights from the survey revealed that Australian knowledge workers are seeking more work environment flexibility (41%), additional time during the workday to concentrate on critical tasks (40%), and more opportunities to develop new skills (40%).

A notable 90% of Australian knowledge workers indicated that Gen AI and automation tools are saving them up to 25 hours of work each week. The time saved is being utilised for various activities, such as engaging in creative tasks (42%), finishing work earlier (31%), interacting more with colleagues (29%), and spending additional time with family (29%).

Despite the advantages reported, 75% of Australian knowledge workers and their organisations still find it challenging to translate AI advancements into meaningful business outcomes. Lee Hawksley, President of Asia Pacific and Japan at UiPath, commented on this issue, stating, "Automation needs to become the key element to bring it all to life."

Hawksley further emphasised the potential of combined AI and automation technologies to enhance productivity and support governmental objectives. "Ultimately, it will be the combined power of AI and automation that will help boost Australia's productivity and enable the government to achieve its Future Made in Australia commitments," he added.

The findings and future implications of these technologies will be discussed at the forthcoming UiPath Business Automation Summit events in Sydney and Melbourne. The summit aims to explore how AI and automation can be harnessed to address the challenges faced by knowledge workers and organisations alike.