The Nub

The Productivity Commission’s second interim report of its 5-year Productivity Inquiry examines the role data and digital tools and applications can play in Australia’s continued prosperity.

Why Does it Matter

“Digital technology and data have already transformed our economy and society, but we have not yet tapped into their full potential,” Commissioner, Dr Stephen King said. Technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotic automation and big data analytics could revolutionise how businesses operate and help lift Australia’s productivity growth by reducing costs, improving the quality of goods and services, and increasing product choice for consumers.

What Next

Other tech companies are ready to attract any disgruntled workers. According to data from ZipRecruiter, the percentage of job openings in the tech sector offering fully-remote conditions has jumped — from 12 per cent in 2019, to 39 per cent so far in 2022. Among the beneficiaries are companies like Oyster, a HR platform, which helps companies manage remote workforces — including its own. Tony Jamous, Oyster’s chief executive, said the muddled picture at some big tech firms was a “crisis of leadership” due to fears over losing control.