Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) unveiled its latest Emerging Roles Report, highlighting 37 new and rapidly expanding positions in the Australian labor market and focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact across various industries. Recent findings highlight significant transformations in the necessary skill sets, driven by artificial intelligence and technological progress. These changes redefine workforce needs and influence digital governance and data management within the public sector.
The organisers have identified the newly defined roles within four primary themes: Net Zero, Health, Care, and Medical, Data and Technologies, and Science and Engineering. AI plays a crucial role in the Data and Technologies category, showcasing a clear shift towards increased reliance on AI in different industries, especially within the public sector’s digital transformation efforts.
Boosting efficiency with AI
AI is developing rapidly in the Australian labor market. AI technologies are gaining prominence in both specialised technical areas and broader roles. JSA’s research shows that technical occupations predominantly possess AI skills, but the demand for these skills increasingly extends into roles that are not traditionally technical. Industries such as advertising, marketing, and accounting show increasing interest, highlighting a wider use of AI tools.
AI integration into Australia’s public sector presents a significant opportunity to improve data management, streamline decision-making processes, and enhance service delivery. A representative from Jobs and Skills Australia stated that as AI technologies continue to mature, they expect a significant growth in demand for AI skills, not only in technology-driven roles but also in administrative and strategic positions within government agencies. “Government departments are increasingly looking for professionals who can harness AI to optimise operations, improve data analytics capabilities, and drive public service innovation.”
Key AI roles shaping government
JSA classifies emerging roles related to AI into several important categories:
- AI and Machine Learning Specialists: These positions focus on creating and executing AI algorithms and models. Experts in machine learning play a crucial role, particularly in public sector data analysis and automation initiatives.
- Data Scientists and Analysts: AI applications are expanding into public sector management, highlighting the vital importance of roles in data science. Experts use extensive datasets to guide government decisions, optimise services, and improve data security measures.
- AI Product Managers: Experts connect technical teams with executive leadership, ensuring AI solutions align with the strategic objectives of public sector initiatives. They supervise the implementation of AI, ensure adherence to privacy regulations, and manage the ethical application of AI within government operations..
- Ethics and Policy Advisors in AI: AI’s integration into government services shows a rising need for experts who can tackle the ethical and policy challenges that come with this technology. These specialists actively develop regulations and guidelines that ensure the responsible implementation of AI technologies.
AI drives digital government transformation
Artificial intelligence plays a key role in the broader framework of data and technologies, as well as impacting cybersecurity and digital infrastructure. As AI adoption grows, specialists skilled in managing extensive data systems and safeguarding them from emerging cyber threats are in high demand. Strong cybersecurity measures uphold the integrity of AI systems, guarantee their secure operation, and safeguard sensitive information from potential breaches in public service.
JSA found a significant rise in job advertisements for AI across various sectors, including cybersecurity, data analytics, and software engineering. These roles hold enormous significance, as they drive digital government efforts, enhance e-government platforms, transform services through digital means, and oversee intricate datasets.
“AI is revolutionising how government agencies operate and serve the public, and the demand for AI-driven expertise will only grow,” stated an Australian workforce analyst at JSA. “To stay ahead, public sector leaders need to prioritise skills development in AI and data management to meet the evolving needs of a digital-first government.”
Transforming public sector
Artificial intelligence will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of governmental services in public sector positions. AI enables public sector organisations to enhance data management, optimise operations, and achieve better outcomes for citizens. As government data grows in volume and complexity, roles focused on AI-driven data analysis, cybersecurity, and data governance become increasingly important.
As Australia transitions to a more digital government, these positions drive the creation and execution of AI-driven solutions that enhance service delivery, foster citizen engagement, and inform policymaking. The ongoing evolution of AI technologies requires the Australian government’s workforce to adapt by developing specialised skills in data analysis, machine learning, cybersecurity, and AI ethics.
AI and emerging technologies shape the future of the Australian job market. These developments present a blend of opportunities and challenges for the public sector. As demand for roles in AI grows—especially in data science, machine learning, and ethical AI—government agencies must prioritise upskilling and reskilling their workforce. Leaders in the public sector can synchronise workforce strategies with the swiftly evolving requirements of AI to ensure that Australia’s government stays ahead in the realm of digital transformation.