AI is rapidly changing the way we work, but the question remains: can technology ever replace human skills? From empathy and ethics to creativity and collaboration, qualities that define human connection are becoming more valuable than ever. Recent research reveals that while AI enhances efficiency, the future of recruitment and workforce strategy lies in strengthening human capabilities.
PwC Australia Shifts Hiring Priorities
PwC Australia recently reset its hiring approach to focus on curiosity, adaptability, emotional intelligence, and collaboration. Technical skills are still important, but the firm recognises that long-term success depends on human strengths.
- More than 200 partners have already completed AI micro-credentials, blending tech capability with human judgement.
- Graduate intake is now more diverse, with candidates from arts and law backgrounds joining commerce and business students.
- Human-driven interviews are prioritised to evaluate values, curiosity, and ethical decision-making.
The Data Behind Human Skills Demand
PwC’s 2025 AI Global Jobs Barometer shows:
- Productivity in AI-exposed sectors has grown almost three times faster per employee compared to other industries.
- Workers with AI skills earn a 56% wage premium, double the rate from the previous year.
- Demand for AI-related roles grew from 23,000 postings in 2020 to far higher levels in 2024.
- Roles exposed to AI evolve 66% faster in skill requirements than non-AI roles.
- Yet, alongside this growth, employers increasingly value human capabilities that machines cannot replicate.
Jobs AI Cannot Replace
Research from the University of Queensland highlights that jobs focused on communication, caregiving, management, and creativity are least at risk of automation.
On the other hand, routine and repetitive roles such as call centres and translation tasks are the most vulnerable. This means that while automation reshapes tasks, human-first roles will continue to thrive.
Policy and Industry Action
At a recent Economic Reform Roundtable, leaders called for stronger integration between universities and training systems, recognition of migrant skills, and embedding AI literacy in education. Crucially, they stressed that productivity gains from AI must translate into higher wages and better living standards. The consensus is clear: building a workforce fit for the future requires investment in people, not just machines.
AI may accelerate productivity, but it cannot replicate human judgement, empathy, or creativity. Employers are beginning to recognise that these qualities are not soft skills, they are core business assets. The organisations that thrive will be those that combine AI with human insight, hiring and developing people who can do what machines never will.
