Preprint
GenAI Literacy for Work-Ready Graduates: How Australian Professionals Use Generative AI Across Sectors
SSRN, Vol.Series Paper No.50
Southern Cross University Scholarship of Learning and Teaching Research Paper Series, Elsevier
31/03/2026
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Abstract
Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools are rapidly moving into Australian workplaces, yet sector-grounded evidence on professional use and the implications for higher education remains fragmented. We conducted a rapid systematic review and targeted grey literature scan to synthesise how GenAI is being used across Australian professional sectors, what risks and barriers are reported, and which competencies appear transferable for student preparation. Sectors were defined using ASCED broad fields 01 to 11. Scopus searches were completed in January 2026 and were limited to English-language publications since 2022 with at least one Australian-affiliated author that reported empirical findings in workplace or professional contexts. Relevant reports from professional and accreditation bodies were identified through targeted web searching using the same inclusion criteria. Of 257 records screened, eight studies and five industry reports met the inclusion criteria, representing 4,992 survey respondents and 79 interview participants. Reported use concentrated on language-intensive work such as drafting and editing, summarising and information support, idea generation, technical assistance, and administrative load reduction, with sector-specific emphases. Commonly reported risks included privacy and confidentiality concerns, inaccurate or fabricated outputs, bias, intellectual property and integrity issues, and limited governance. Barriers centred on limited training, unclear policies, restricted access, and poor workflow integration. Findings support a dual GenAI literacy agenda in higher education that combines shared safe-use competencies with discipline-aligned practices and standards.
Details
- Title
- GenAI Literacy for Work-Ready Graduates: How Australian Professionals Use Generative AI Across Sectors
- Creators
- Zach Quince - Southern Cross University
- Publication Details
- SSRN, Vol.Series Paper No.50
- Series
- Southern Cross University Scholarship of Learning and Teaching Research Paper Series
- Publisher
- Elsevier
- Identifiers
- 991013364959802368
- Academic Unit
- Centre for Teaching and Learning; Faculty of Science and Engineering
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Preprint
- Local Fields
- Original Research - SoLT