Australian orgs replacing security roles with AI

AI is already having a negative impact on entry-level cybersecurity roles in Australia, with research released by Barracuda indicating that 45% of local organisations have replaced or eliminated entry-level security roles with AI.

The research found that 64% of Australian organisations have experienced professional workforce reductions linked to AI, with entry-level positions (45%) more affected than more senior positions (33%). But despite this, 94% of Australian respondents report grappling with cybersecurity skills gaps, with the most common challenges linked to AI-related risks (68%) and advanced identity and phishing threats (68%).

Six in 10 organisations surveyed say they need additional skills and expertise in incident response, decision-making under pressure, and risk. Barracuda said these skill shortages could pose a growing problem if organisations shedding entry-level roles fail to build development pathways for new cybersecurity professionals.

In addition, Australian organisations continue to rely on human experience for critical decisions, with 65% using a shared decision-making model that uses AI to support investigations and analysis while people remain responsible for context, judgement and final decisions.

Barracuda SVP and CIO Siroui Mushegian said the research demonstrates the effect AI is having on the sector.

“The findings show how the impact of AI is changing the cybersecurity landscape faster than many security teams can build the necessary skills, visibility and governance,” she said. “Organisations need to reshape their security teams, combining the power of AI and automation with human expertise, judgement and visibility. We must nurture these critical skills in the next generation of cybersecurity professionals, building new development pathways and opportunities for hands-on experience.”

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