Ilona Charles
Artificial intelligence is no longer a “coming soon” story. For many Australians, it’s already part of everyday working life. According to the EY Australian AI Workforce Blueprint, more than two-thirds of Australian office workers have used AI in the past month, with many everyday users reporting that it saved them several hours a week.
From creating documents to reviewing job applications, AI is being used in ways that truly save time and reduce administrative burden. Done well, it frees up people to focus on more interesting work that requires judgment and creativity.
However, as this technology is increasingly used in the workplace, employees need to stay aware of how it is being used and how it may affect them. The more pressing risk is not about AI “taking over” but about how AI is deployed and managed.
So what should you be careful about?
1. Decision-making without transparency
A big concern is the lack of visibility into how decisions are made. AI is increasingly being used to support decisions about employment, personal performance, and workload.
A University of Melbourne study found that AI tools can introduce hidden biases, particularly when trained on historical data that reflects past inequalities. On the hiring front, there are already growing concerns about discrimination against women, the elderly and people with disabilities.
If something is being evaluated or managed with the help of an algorithm, it is natural to ask what role the algorithm plays and whether humans have the final say.
2. The silent rise of workplace surveillance
Another issue worth noting is the gradual increase in workplace surveillance. ABC reports that AI can move from helpful automation to constant monitoring much more easily than many people think. This is supported by research from the John Curtin Research Centre.
Many employees are already using AI, but there are often no clear rules or guidelines.
Tools that track keystrokes, response times, or so-called productivity scores can instantly change the way you feel at work. When employees feel like they’re being watched rather than trusted, stress can increase and judgment can be impaired.
Without clear guardrails, AI could increase pressure and workload rather than alleviate it.
3. Poor change management
The impact of AI is not only technical, but also emotional. A study led by Flinders University and the NSW Center for Occupational Safety and Health found that the biggest risks of AI in the workplace are psychological.
When people are not properly supported or engaged, unclear role responsibilities, concerns about job security, and constant technology change can take a toll. Expecting employees to adapt without training, explanation, or consultation is a surefire path to disengagement and burnout.
4. Being told to use AI without guidance
Many employees are already using AI, but there are often no clear rules or guidelines. An EY survey of Australian workers found that while most people are using AI at work, many are concerned about data privacy and accidentally breaking regulations.
Few had received clear guidance or training from their employers. This puts employees in a difficult position, especially when dealing with sensitive or personal information. If you’re not sure what’s appropriate, this can be a clear signal that the rules of engagement aren’t clear.
What employees can do
A better response is to show curiosity through discussion and engagement rather than fear or rejection. Ask where and why AI is being used. Focus on whether decisions still require human judgment, and look at how technology is reshaping the daily work experience.
Employees also have a say in how this technology is implemented in the workplace. Speaking up early, raising real concerns and seeking clarity can shape how AI is deployed. When employees are involved, the results are usually good for both the employees and the organization. In contrast, silence leaves others to decide what people are willing to accept.
Australian researchers and regulators are increasingly making it clear that successful AI implementation is not primarily about the tools, but about trust, design, and consideration for the people who are expected to use them. AI provides the most value when deployed thoughtfully.
For employees, staying informed, speaking up, and bringing the human side of work to the forefront remains the best protection. As AI becomes part of everyday work, employees will need clear boundaries, honest explanations, and ongoing dialogue, ensuring technology supports not only speed and efficiency, but also equity and sustainable careers.
Ilona Charles is CEO and co-founder of shilo, where she advises CEOs and executive teams on leading people through complex change, including AI adoption and digital transformation.
Get workplace news, advice and perspectives to help you get ahead at work. Sign up for our weekly Monday newsletter.
