Qantas is eliminating 850 local jobs, outsourcing back-office functions primarily to India through a partnership with Accenture. This move aims to modernize the airline's systems and processes, with the company stating it cannot hire fast enough to meet modernization needs. Government officials and a key union have expressed strong disapproval, questioning if AI is being used as a pretext for offshoring. Concerns have been raised about a pattern of Australian companies using technological advancements as justification for mass layoffs. The union is advocating for retraining and redeployment of affected workers.
Sydney, Australia
https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/significant-damage-transport-minister-warns-qantas-over-ai-job-cuts-20261111-p61d5l.html