Microsoft has announced a major push to expand artificial intelligence skills across Australia, aiming to train three million people by 2028. The initiative, described as the largest of its kind in the country, will be delivered through partnerships with government bodies, educational institutions, industry players, and community organisations.
The move significantly expands the company’s earlier commitments. Previous programmes trained hundreds of thousands in digital skills ahead of schedule, highlighting strong demand for practical AI learning. The new plan focuses on three groups: students entering the workforce, professionals already employed, and broader communities that need access to digital opportunities.
Alongside skilling efforts, Microsoft has outlined a wider investment strategy in Australia. The company plans to invest A$25 billion by 2029 to strengthen digital infrastructure, cybersecurity capabilities, and workforce readiness. The initiative aligns with national efforts to improve AI adoption while ensuring it is used responsibly.
A key part of the plan targets education. New programmes will help teachers integrate AI into classrooms and provide students with early exposure to real-world applications. Tools powered by cloud platforms will also support personalised career guidance for school leavers, addressing gaps in access to counselling and career planning.
For the current workforce, the focus is on practical, job-ready training. Collaborations with major employers such as Telstra and Westpac aim to equip employees with skills to use AI effectively in everyday roles. Training programmes are also being tailored for frontline and field workers, expanding access beyond traditional desk-based jobs.
Community outreach is another pillar. Programmes designed for nonprofits and underrepresented groups will promote inclusive access to AI skills. These efforts aim to reduce the digital divide and ensure that the benefits of AI adoption are shared more broadly across society.
