Sometimes the pace of change can be overwhelming. Suddenly everyone’s an expert in the next big thing… Cryptocurrency (2010s), smart phones (late 2000s), social media (mid 2000s), the internet (late 1990s)… keep going back as far as your working life takes you!
If you’re employed in a professional environment, you’ve probably incorporated some basic AI tools into your workflow by now. ChatGPT might even be your new go-to over Google (yes for me).
Sure, AI can handle certain tasks well. Our finance team are creating complex Excel formulas on the fly with ease, while AI is already integrated in the next generation of design software like Adobe PhotoShop and helps our marketing with content creation and editing (even this blog).
Most experts agree AI should be viewed as an assistant rather than a replacement. A recent Jobs and Skills Australia study found AI is more likely to augment workers and help with repetitive tasks, rather than take over whole jobs:
“Current Gen AI technologies are more likely to enhance workers’ efforts in completing tasks, rather than replace them, especially in high-skilled occupations,” the report said. “The higher potential for automation is concentrated in routine clerical and administrative roles.”
Still, many Australians remain cautious, with surveys such as the ServiceNow study showing a majority worry about AI’s long-term impact on employment.
Some recruiters are also feeling cautious. Tech that promises to screen CVs, shortlist candidates, or even conduct interviews might sound efficient (and let’s be honest, also a little scary), but we mustn’t forget who is at the heart of our business: people.
Candidates aren’t just a list of keywords. They bring motivation, potential and unique value that only a human can properly recognise. Determined to protect the human connection, trust and professional judgement that define our industry, consensus amongst my colleagues is we’d like to see stronger oversight and transparency.
The reality is AI can, and does, make mistakes. We’ve seen instances where overreliance on technology in professional settings has caused setbacks rather than solved problems For example, in a recent murder case before the Supreme Court of Victoria, a lawyer submitted court documents with unintentionally fabricated quotes and non-existent legal judgments produced by AI. This error resulted in a 24-hour delay to proceedings.[i]
In other cases, attempts to replace frontline staff with AI-driven tools have only increased frustration for customers and employees alike (are you a fan of the self-checkout?). Just ask Coles or Woollies about retail shrink (stock loss is around 16X higher since self-checkouts were introduced).
These examples are reminders that AI isn’t infallible, and that unchecked reliance can backfire.
I work with many candidates in hands-on, versatile roles, and their skills and abilities simply couldn’t be replaced by AI in the near future. It’s a timely reminder that the physical workforce is just as important as the digital one, and jobs such as teaching and counselling students or walking and caring for animals, haven’t been outsourced to robots outside of sci-fi films just yet.
So, let AI help with the grunt work or kick off a first draft, but don’t hand over the reins. Use it as a tool, fact-check its outputs, and bring your own judgement to the final product. That balance is where the best results happen.
Australians value fairness and common sense. Let’s take the same approach with AI. Take a breath. Stay human. The future belongs to those who adapt!
Interchange Bench use AI where it makes sense to save time on repetitive tasks, but recruitment is always completed with a human touch. Relationships, trust and good judgement are at the heart of every placement we make. To find out more about how we can help you with temporary and contract talent, you can book a quick catch-up in my diary, or connect with me on my profile page.
[i] Senior lawyer apologises after filing AI-generated submissions in Victorian murder case
ABC News, 15 August 2025
abc.net.au/news/2025-08-15/victoria-lawyer-apologises-after-ai-generated-submissions
With an educational background in Psychology and Human Resources Management, Greg prides himself on his ability to work with and understand people. He has over two years’ experience specialising in the hiring and management of apprentices and traineeships across both blue collar and corporate businesses. Greg has a love of working with others and challenges himself to truly see the best attributes in everyone he meets which has guided him through his career and professional development.