A landmark study by researchers at the University of Queensland Business School has revealed which professions are most and least at risk of being replaced by artificial intelligence.
The analysis, which drew on a database of 3,000 jobs and nearly 14,000 skills, found that while AI is transforming the job market, not all roles face the same level of threat.
Winners: Human-Centred Skills
Jobs requiring communication, collaboration, creativity, management expertise, and caring responsibilities are far less likely to be automated. Roles such as management consultants, engineers, and doctors remain secure, highlighting the continuing importance of human judgement, empathy, and strategic thinking.
Losers: Routine and Repetitive Roles
In contrast, professions focused on repetition and predictable outputs are the most vulnerable. Language translators, call centre staff, financial report writers, and clerical positions were all identified as being at high risk of automation in the near future.
Shifting Skill Demands
Study lead Dr Evan Shellshear, an adjunct professor at UQ, said AI was simultaneously creating new skills and automating others at a rapid pace.
“From an education or policy perspective, we need to slow down and be a little bit careful because just as quickly as these skills are arising, they are being automated,” Dr Shellshear said.
Interestingly, researchers also found that AI could be narrowing the gap between high- and low-skilled work. Some complex roles may become more accessible without a degree, as automation simplifies once-specialised tasks.
The Urgency of Preparation
More than 40% of new skills emerging today are expected to be automated within five years, raising pressing questions for policymakers, educators, and businesses. Dr Shellshear warned against complacency:
“We can’t wait until tens of thousands of people have lost jobs because, for example, robots can weld better than humans working on production lines.”
Instead, he emphasised the need to identify which skills will remain in demand and where growth opportunities lie.
Top 10 Jobs Most at Risk from AI
Call centre roles involving simple queries
Language translators
Reporting function roles (e.g. financial report writing)
Cashiers and ticket clerks
Data entry clerks
Bank tellers and related clerks
Postal service clerks
Some graphic design roles
Junior accountant roles (e.g. bookkeeping, payroll clerks)
Junior legal roles (e.g. legal clerks)
