AI impacts women's jobs more than men's. Here's what to do about it.

AI is reshaping the graduate job market and it doesn't affect everyone equally.  

Research from the International Labour Organization found around 29% of jobs in female-dominated occupations are impacted by generative AI, compared with just 16% of jobs in male-dominated ones. In high-income countries, like Australia, nearly one in ten jobs held by women sit in the highest-risk category. That's almost three times the rate for men.  

Why the gap?  

It comes down to the types of roles women tend to choose. Female talent has traditionally been concentrated in clerical, administrative, marketing and support type roles; these are exactly the tasks that generative AI does best. Jobs and Skills Australia flagged the same pattern locally. It means that not only will there be less opportunities in these sectors, but also that competition will be greater. 

This isn't a reason to panic. It's a reason to plan. Here are three things you can do right now. 

1. Choose your field with your eyes open 

Before you lock in a degree or career path, look at which industries are predicted to grow and which aren't. A little research now could save you years of frustration later. 

2. Be more than your degree 

A degree alone no longer signals that you'd be a great hire. Part-time work, volunteering, leadership roles and side projects all show employers you're well rounded and ready to contribute. 

3. Don't shy away from AI 

Employers now expect graduates to have a solid working knowledge of AI tools, regardless of what you studied. Learn how to use them well and you'll turn a threat into an advantage. 

The graduates who thrive won't be the ones who ignore AI. They'll be the ones who understand it. 

Sources: International Labour Organization, Generative AI and Jobs, 2025. Jobs and Skills Australia, Our Gen-AI Transition, 2025.