AHRI’s latest Quarterly Work Outlook reveals that while AI adoption is nearly universal and delivering clear productivity gains, many organisations lack the policies, capability and strategy needed to harness it responsibly.
Artificial intelligence is now a defining feature of Australian workplaces, and HR is playing a central role in shaping how organisations adapt.
AHRI’s December Quarterly Work Outlook report shows that AI adoption is widespread – 93 per cent of organisations are already using AI in some capacity – and most employers are seeing clear benefits, from stronger productivity to more streamlined operations. But the data also reveals emerging tensions that HR leaders must manage as AI reshapes work at pace.
While 83 per cent of respondents say employees are responding positively to AI and 82 per cent believe it is improving efficiency, three in five report that work intensity is increasing as a result.
Despite concerns that AI may erode early-career opportunities, AHRI’s research found that 41 per cent of employers say entry-level roles are actually increasing due to AI, compared with 19 per cent seeing a decrease. This suggests AI is restructuring, rather than reducing, pathways into work.
Yet the foundations for responsible adoption are not consistently in place. One in four organisations have no AI policy or guidelines at all, and many are yet to extend AI into higher-value HR functions such as workforce planning or performance management.
In short, organisations are embracing AI, but many lack the guardrails, capability and strategic alignment needed to maximise its benefits and manage its risks.
The infographic below outlines the key AI insights from the report, and the full report provides detailed data on recruitment conditions, redundancy intentions, pay expectations and broader labour-market trends.
Want to learn more about the key insights from AHRI’s December 2025 Quarterly Work Outlook report? Sign up to attend a free webinar unpacking the insights and diving into what the latest data tells us about productivity, wellbeing and the evolving role of HR in a digitally driven world.
How are HR practitioners feeling about AI?
Download a printable version of the infographic here.
Need help staying compliant in an AI-driven world? Make the most of AHRI’s special pricing on its AI & HR pilot program, currently offering a 40% discount. In this practical, virtual 90-minute session, you’ll cut through the noise and learn exactly what you need to keep your HR practices compliant and future-ready.