Australian SMEs are increasingly embracing AI, with a NAB survey showing 42% already using AI, 44% not using it, and 14% planning to start, though adoption varies by sector.

Property services lead AI adoption, with almost 70% of businesses in that sector using AI, followed by finance/insurance and business services, while transport lags at about one-fifth.

Hospitality is widening its AI interest, as nearly four in ten SMEs plan to introduce AI, signaling broader applicability beyond data-heavy industries.

Despite momentum, nearly half of SMEs (46%) have no plans to adopt AI in the coming year, underscoring a widening adopter gap.

MYOB research finds AI users grow about 2.8 times faster than non-users, with 54% saving time and 34% reporting productivity gains, though 46% still plan no rollout next year.

The labor market is increasingly signaling AI demand, with Indeed data showing 8.5% of Australian employers mentioning AI in job postings this year (up from 5.8% in early 2025), and 13.2% of ads in sales referencing AI.

Hiring signals indicate strongest AI interest in data/IT, marketing, sales, and arts/entertainment roles as employers seek AI familiarity.

Across three new studies, AI is impacting about 2.7 million firms, with many planning to adopt despite doubts about whether human skills can be replicated by machines.

There are concerns about job displacement, evidenced by Atlassian reducing staff by about 10% due to AI, though economists say the overall employment impact remains limited so far.

Worker sentiment on AI is mixed: some fear reduced opportunities, while others see productivity gains and more engaging work.

The analysis draws on NAB’s SME AI adoption study (April 2026) and MYOB research, highlighting ongoing employer demand for AI-related skills in job postings.

Executives anticipate a future surge in SME AI investment and usage as the adopter gap widens and productivity gains become more evident.