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Leadership Shifts and Tech Innovations at Westpac
The execution phase of Westpac’s Project Unite is now in progress.
Investor anxiety rises with the exit of key tech executives.
Westpac is implementing new technology solutions and adopting AI.
Leadership adjustments involve the appointment of dedicated CIO Paul Bari.
Transition in Westpac’s Leadership
Westpac has revealed it has completed the planning phase of its Project Unite, a crucial tech initiative designed to boost operational efficiency. Nonetheless, the recent exit of two senior technology figures, Scott Collary and David Walker, has generated apprehension among investors about the project’s trajectory.
Status of Project Unite
The bank has confirmed that the implementation phase of Project Unite has commenced, with the initial major customer transfer to the Panorama wealth management platform planned for the first half of 2026. Despite the shifts in leadership, Westpac reassures stakeholders of the project’s security under the supervision of Chief Transformation Officer Peter Herbert and CIO Paul Bari.
Technological Progress at Westpac
Apart from Project Unite, Westpac is vigorously investigating AI technologies to enhance operational efficiencies. Recently, the bank has broadened its Microsoft Copilot initiative to encompass 35,000 employees, with the goal of optimizing work procedures and boosting productivity.
Integration of AI and Its Effects on the Workforce
Westpac’s Chief Data, Digital and AI Officer, Andrew McMullan, highlighted AI as a key strategic facilitator that enhances skilled human capital and ethical standards. While AI offers prospects for greater efficiency, Westpac is remaining prudent regarding its potential influence on job roles, prioritizing role optimization over staff reductions.
Overview
Westpac is undergoing a critical period in its technological evolution with Project Unite, amidst shifts in leadership. Although the exit of prominent tech leaders raises uncertainties, the bank continues to advance with AI integration and technological enhancements to sustain competitiveness and operational effectiveness.
Questions & Answers
Q: What is Project Unite?
A: Project Unite is Westpac’s initiative aimed at enhancing operational efficiency by tackling system challenges and inefficiencies stemming from past mergers and acquisitions.
Q: What concerns do investors have regarding the departures of Scott Collary and David Walker?
A: Investors are apprehensive because these leaders were pivotal in the bank’s tech development, and their exits occur during a critical phase of Project Unite.
Q: In what ways is Westpac applying AI to improve its operations?
A: Westpac is utilizing AI solutions such as Microsoft Copilot to boost efficiency and decision-making, enabling employees to concentrate on high-priority tasks and better manage workloads.
Q: Will AI result in job cuts at Westpac?
A: Although AI might decrease the demand for new hires due to enhanced efficiency, Westpac is not planning on job eliminations and is instead focusing on refining current positions.
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Wesfarmers Adopts AI Throughout Its Operations
Brief Overview
Wesfarmers is adopting agentic AI to customise retail experiences.
This effort includes collaborations with Google Cloud and Microsoft.
Major brands feature Bunnings, Kmart, Officeworks, Priceline, and Blackwoods.
AI applications cover customer interaction, forecasting, and operational efficiency.
Partnerships with Microsoft and Google Cloud include tailored AI training initiatives.
Wesfarmers employs over 118,000 individuals in Australia and New Zealand.
Wesfarmers’ Approach to AI
Wesfarmers is undertaking a transformative strategy to incorporate agentic AI throughout its structure. This initiative aims to customise retail interactions and simplify operational challenges, affecting key brands such as Bunnings, Kmart, Officeworks, Priceline, and Blackwoods. The undertaking includes strategic partnerships with technology leaders Google Cloud and Microsoft, marking a shift towards a more advanced technological retail environment.
Collaboration with Google Cloud and Microsoft
The ASX-listed firm has revealed long-term partnerships with Google Cloud and Microsoft to utilise their agentic AI technologies. These alliances will improve various facets of Wesfarmers’ operations, encompassing customer engagement and design through to forecasting. Google Cloud has initiated a pilot for OnePass customers, enabling conversational searches and shopping across various retail brands.
Enhancements in Retail Through AI
Wesfarmers intends to use Google’s Gemini Enterprise for Customer Experience to create tools that make product discovery easier, deliver pertinent recommendations, and create smooth transitions from search to purchase. Additionally, AI-driven customer support agents will be developed to manage inquiries more effectively. Concurrently, Microsoft’s agentic AI services will enhance internal productivity and supply chain efficiency, along with customer-facing commerce functionalities.
Expanding AI Functionality
The collaboration with Microsoft will considerably expand Wesfarmers’ capabilities with Azure OpenAI, M365 Copilot, and Copilot Studio throughout its retail brands. Wesfarmers aims to more than double its usage of Microsoft 365 Copilot, improving team productivity and operational effectiveness. Custom AI training programs offered by both Google and Microsoft will further enhance the competencies of Wesfarmers’ workforce.
AI Strategy Across Multiple Vendors
By adopting a multi-vendor AI strategy, Wesfarmers mitigates dependence on a single platform, ensuring adaptability and innovation. The company is also working with OpenAI, integrating the ChatGPT Enterprise chatbot across its departments. As one of Australia’s largest private employers, Wesfarmers caters to millions of customers in Australia and New Zealand, using AI to revolutionise its retail operations.
Conclusion
Wesfarmers’ plan to integrate agentic AI throughout its operations represents a critical advancement in enhancing retail customer experiences and operational efficacy. Through strategic partnerships with Google Cloud, Microsoft, and OpenAI, Wesfarmers is poised to transform its approach to customer engagement, forecasting, and internal productivity.
Q&A Section
Q: What is the main goal of Wesfarmers’ AI initiative?
A: The main goal is to tailor retail experiences and lessen operational complexity across its key brands.
Q: With which firms is Wesfarmers collaborating for its AI strategy?
A: Wesfarmers is collaborating with Google Cloud, Microsoft, and OpenAI.
Q: How will AI technology affect the customer experience at Wesfarmers?
A: AI will improve product discovery, offer suitable recommendations, and provide effective customer support via AI agents.
Q: What advantages does a multi-vendor AI strategy provide for Wesfarmers?
A: A multi-vendor approach enables Wesfarmers to utilize a variety of technologies and avoid reliance on a single platform, promoting innovation and flexibility.
Q: How will Microsoft’s AI solutions be applied by Wesfarmers?
A: Microsoft’s AI services will enhance internal productivity, supply chain processes, and customer-facing commerce solutions.
Q: What is the extent of Wesfarmers’ AI-driven pilot initiative with Google Cloud?
A: The pilot initiative permits OnePass customers to conduct conversational search and shopping across multiple retail brands within one platform.
Q: Which operational areas will benefit from Google’s AI capabilities?
A: Google’s AI will aid in decision-making, automate routine activities, and analyse data across operations, marketing, finance, and customer support.
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Quick Overview
Australia’s EV sector experienced a 38% uptick in sales during 2025, totaling 156,958 units.
Medium SUVs and electric Utes are the top performers in EV sales.
Electric vehicles are nearing price equivalence with petrol cars, particularly in the Medium SUV category.
BYD Shark ranks among the best-selling electric Utes in Australia.
Expansion of infrastructure and increasing corporate fleet adoption are crucial for future EV advancement.
Projections suggest a 15% market share for electric vehicles by 2026.
2025: A Year of Major Expansion
In 2025, Australia’s electric vehicle (EV) market experienced notable expansion, with a 38% increase in sales from the prior year. The total units sold reached 156,958, fueled by a broader array of models and declining prices. Medium SUVs, a prominent category in the market, saw their proportion rise from 16% to 27%, primarily due to a surge in model offerings, which escalated from 30 to 45 choices.
The Surge of Electric Utes
Electric Utes rose to prominence in 2025, with sales skyrocketing from 362 units in 2024 to 20,622 units in 2025, making up 8% of the segment. The BYD Shark spearheaded this growth, capturing a 7% market share and becoming the fourth best-selling Ute overall. This reflects an increasing acceptance of electric vehicles among Australian tradespeople and outdoor adventurers.
Price Equivalence and Consumer Preferences
The shrinking price difference between EVs and internal combustion vehicles is making electric alternatives more attractive. Medium SUVs are now seeing an EV price premium of merely 18-22%, easing the transition for families enhancing their primary vehicles. The financial advantages of EV ownership, including lower fuel and maintenance expenses, further improve their allure.
Outlook for 2026
The perspective for 2026 remains optimistic, with Medium SUVs likely continuing to propel EV sales due to a broader variety of models and competitive pricing. The market is tilting towards mainstream acceptance, as an increasing number of passenger vehicles and light commercial vans reach price equivalence with conventional vehicles on a life-cycle cost basis. Fleet adoption is also predicted to increase as managers recognize the long-term financial advantages of EVs.
Obstacles and Prospects
Despite favorable trends, hitting the Australian Energy Market Operator’s target of 240,000 sales by 2026 poses a challenge. The Federal Government’s approach regarding Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) exemptions is critical to sustaining progress towards 2035 emissions objectives. Nonetheless, advancements in the industry, like enhanced public charging infrastructure and corporate fleet transitions, are expected to accelerate EV adoption.
Leading the Charge in 2026
BYD is projected to continue as a major figure in Australia’s EV market in 2026, with models such as the Sealion 7 and Shark 6 possibly becoming top sellers. New competitors like the Toyota Hilux BEV, Kia EV4, and Hyundai Elexio are set to further diversify the market, providing a range of options to meet various budgets and preferences.
Conclusion
Australia’s electric vehicle market stands on the threshold of a significant transformation, with sales anticipated to achieve a 15% share of the new car market by 2026. Key elements such as price declines, a greater variety of models, and improved infrastructure are propelling this shift. While obstacles linger, particularly in meeting government benchmarks, the move towards widespread EV adoption is unmistakable.
Q: What fueled the expansion of the EV market in 2025?
A:
The expansion was chiefly initiated by enhanced model availability and price drops, especially within the Medium SUV and Ute categories.
Q: Which segments are at the forefront of EV sales?
A:
Medium SUVs and electric Utes lead the segments, with significant growth noted in 2025.
Q: How is the pricing difference between EVs and traditional vehicles evolving?
A:
The pricing difference is shrinking, particularly in Medium SUVs, where the EV premium is currently just 18-22% compared to petrol versions.
Q: What are the main challenges for achieving the 2026 sales target?
A:
Aiming for the 240,000 sales target by 2026 will be challenging, with government policies on FBT exemptions playing a vital role.
Q: What is the significance of infrastructure in EV adoption?
A:
Enhanced charging infrastructure is crucial for alleviating range anxiety and supporting the next wave of EV adopters.
Q: Which new models are anticipated to influence the market in 2026?
A:
Upcoming models like the Toyota Hilux BEV, Kia EV4, and Hyundai Elexio are expected to significantly shape the market landscape.
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Brief Overview
Fibre has taken the lead in NBN Co’s network, now covering 35% of the total footprint.
A 24% growth in fibre connections was noted over the previous year.
Fibre installations are occurring at a rate of 47,000 per month.
The move from copper lines to fibre continues, particularly in rural regions.
NBN Co is on course to meet its financial objectives for 2026, despite a worldwide fibre scarcity.
The Rise of Fibre in NBN Co’s Network
Fibre has positioned itself as the predominant broadband technology within NBN Co’s network, reflecting a crucial achievement in the company’s infrastructure development. By the conclusion of 2025, 2.99 million premises will be connected, with fibre making up 35% of the network area. This transition signifies a 24% annual improvement, with 570,000 new fibre connections established.
Capital for Fibre Enhancements
Under CEO Ellie Sweeney’s guidance, NBN Co has expedited its fibre enhancement efforts, converting 287,000 premises to full fibre in just the past six months. This initiative has enabled over a million premises to be switched from obsolete copper lines, with 26% of the upgrades taking place in regional settings.
Operational Performance and Financial Projections
As of December 2025, 41% of premises were subscribed to plans providing speeds of 100Mbps or higher, while 31% accessed 500Mbps or greater. Despite stagnant overall connection growth, NBN Co’s financial health remains strong, exhibiting a 5% rise in average residential revenue per user and a 23% decrease in statutory losses.
Government Assistance and Upcoming Objectives
NBN Co’s upgrade strategies have gained from governmental support, with an additional $3 billion allocated to finalize the overbuild of 622,000 fibre-to-the-node locations. The goal is to have 95,000 of these locations eligible for upgrades by December 2026.
Challenges in the Global Fibre Market
Although a global fibre optic cable shortfall presents difficulties, NBN Co remains optimistic about the resilience of its supply chain. The company’s operating officer, John Parkin, reassures that the fibre rollout will continue smoothly, regardless of external market challenges.
Conclusion
NBN Co’s commitment to fibre connectivity is transforming Australia’s broadband environment. With considerable financial investments and governmental support, the organization is enhancing network dependability and speed, reinforcing fibre as the foundation of Australia’s digital future.
Q&A Section
Q: What proportion of NBN Co’s network is comprised of fibre?
A: Fibre currently constitutes 35% of NBN Co’s network footprint.
Q: What strategies has NBN Co implemented to boost fibre connections?
A: NBN Co has fast-tracked its fibre upgrades, contributing 287,000 new connections in the past six months and moving over a million premises away from copper lines.
Q: What are the financial expectations for NBN Co?
A: NBN Co is on target to achieve its 2026 financial goals, anticipating revenues between $5.8 billion and $6 billion and an EBITDA of $4.2 billion to $4.4 billion.
Q: Is NBN Co impacted by the global shortage of fibre?
A: According to NBN Co’s COO, John Parkin, the company does not foresee its fibre optic supply chain being affected by the global shortage.
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Telstra’s Strategic Outsourcing: Effects and Consequences
Brief Overview
Telstra intends to offload 442 tech positions to Infosys.
209 further positions in a collaboration with Accenture are impacted.
This initiative seeks to upgrade offerings for business clients.
Discussions have commenced with employees affected.
The union raises issues about skill depletion and data protection.
Telstra’s Alliance with Infosys
Telstra has revealed intentions to transfer up to 442 tech roles to Infosys, as part of a strategy to enhance its services for enterprise and mid-market clients. This choice follows a strategic alliance proposition aiming to develop smarter, more cohesive digital systems. The shift is projected to streamline operations and improve client interactions, though it entails major alterations for the telecom’s workforce.
Discussions with Affected Employees
The telecom has commenced discussions with the staff impacted by this initiative. Most of these positions fall within Telstra’s enterprise services division, which has been undergoing a reorganization. The company has indicated that if the outsourcing proposal goes ahead, some positions will migrate to Infosys, whereas others will be rendered obsolete.
Union Worries
The Communications Workers Union has voiced concerns regarding the offshoring of these positions, characterising it as a “hollowing out” of Australian expertise. The union also pointed out possible threats to data security due to the engagement of overseas personnel. According to the union, the strategy to create a new Australian subsidiary by Infosys seems to be a way to alleviate resistance against offshoring sensitive information.
Broad Implications Across Telstra
This outsourcing not only influences Telstra’s enterprise services but also other sectors of the organization, including its consumer division. The telco’s aim is to optimize operations, cut down on duplicated efforts, and bolster accountability to enhance frontline and customer engagement.
Additional Effects from Accenture Joint Venture
In a related matter, 209 positions in Telstra’s partnership with Accenture are also slated for offshoring. This decision further highlights Telstra’s strategy to utilize global resources to propel its digital transformation goals.
Conclusion
Telstra’s choice to join forces with Infosys and offshore numerous technology roles signifies a considerable transition in its operational approach. While aimed at modernization, this action has triggered concerns surrounding job stability and skill retention within Australia. The company continues to engage with affected personnel and stakeholders to navigate the impending changes.
Common Questions
Q: Why is Telstra offshoring positions to Infosys?
A: Telstra seeks to enhance its enterprise and mid-market services via a strategic alliance with Infosys, involving the offshoring of roles to optimize operations and elevate customer experiences.
Q: How many positions are affected by this action?
A: Around 442 technology roles are anticipated to be offloaded to Infosys, with an additional 209 positions impacted within a joint venture with Accenture.
Q: What concerns have the unions expressed?
A: The union is worried about the loss of skilled jobs in Australia as well as potential data security threats linked to outsourcing to overseas firms.
Q: How is Telstra responding to these concerns?
A: Telstra has initiated discussions with affected employees and is aiming to set up a new Australian subsidiary with Infosys to minimize negative reactions.
Q: What benefits are expected from this outsourcing decision?
A: The outsourcing is anticipated to simplify operations, improve customer experiences, and modernize Telstra’s digital infrastructure.
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Service NSW Digital ID Pilot Initiative
Service NSW Digital ID Pilot Initiative
Quick Overview
Service NSW introduces a pilot program for digital ID to facilitate straightforward identity verification.
Participants can utilize smartphones to authenticate identity through biometric features.
The initial launch focuses on participants of the NSW toll rebate program.
The program is expected to grow to encompass additional services in the future.
NSW Digital ID improves privacy by minimizing unnecessary sharing of personal data.
A New Dawn in Digital Identity
Service NSW has commenced a trailblazing venture with the launch of a digital ID pilot initiative. This effort aims to revolutionize the way NSW residents verify their identity when utilizing online state government services.
This pilot, aimed at individuals aged 16 and above, permits participants to authenticate their identity via their smartphone camera. The process involves matching biometric facial attributes with conventional identity documents such as driver’s licenses, passports, and birth certificates.
Privacy and Security at the Core
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib highlighted the privacy advantages of the new framework, asserting it diminishes the requirement for excessive sharing of personal information. Once the digital ID is generated, paper-based documents are not retained, thereby ensuring better privacy and security.
The system will gradually broaden to include additional services, initially centering on the state’s toll rebate program. Verification information will be cross-checked with data from state, territory, and federal entities, including the Attorney-General’s Department and Services Australia.
Simplifying Government Engagement
Greg Wells, managing director of Service NSW, underscored the ease of the digital ID framework, which aims to enhance interaction with government services. The digital ID will be merged into residents’ existing MyServiceNSW accounts, providing a cohesive user experience.
While the pilot currently aims at a specific demographic, it is anticipated to extend to a broader audience, allowing more residents to take advantage of streamlined identity verification methods.
Conclusion
The Service NSW Digital ID pilot initiative is a notable breakthrough in digital identity verification. By facilitating secure and effective identity confirmation, the system is poised to bolster privacy, lessen bureaucracy, and enhance user experiences across government services.
Q: What is the Service NSW Digital ID pilot initiative?
A: It’s a new program by Service NSW that allows residents to verify their identity digitally using biometric data from their smartphones.
Q: Who is eligible to join the pilot initiative?
A: Residents of NSW over the age of 16 are encouraged to volunteer for participation.
Q: Which services will initially utilize the digital ID?
A: The first phase focuses on participants of the state’s toll rebate program, with intentions to broaden the range of services later.
Q: In what way does the digital ID improve privacy?
A: It enables users to only disclose essential information, thus reducing the necessity to over-disclose personal information.
Q: Will my documents be kept after the digital ID is established?
A: No, paper-based documents will not be retained once the digital ID is established.
Q: How will the digital ID be incorporated into current services?
A: The digital ID will be integrated into residents’ MyServiceNSW accounts, facilitating easier access to a variety of government services.
Q: What are the future plans for the pilot initiative?
A: The initiative aims to gradually expand to encompass a greater array of services and users throughout NSW.
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Telstra and Accenture Joint Venture Suggests Workforce Modifications
Quick Overview
The joint venture of Telstra and Accenture suggests eliminating 209 positions.
Some roles will be discontinued, while others will be transferred to India.
This initiative aims to upgrade Telstra’s data and AI systems.
A consultation period has commenced with the employees affected.
The venture strives to enhance cost efficiencies and customer satisfaction.
Restructuring the Workforce of Telstra and Accenture Joint Venture
Overview of the Joint Venture
Last January, Telstra and Accenture revealed a seven-year joint venture aimed at transforming Telstra’s data and AI functionalities. The venture was anticipated to optimize Telstra’s AI and data systems, enhancing efficiency and developing advanced AI capabilities.
Workforce Modification Proposal
The joint venture is now proposing a reduction of roughly 209 roles. While some positions will be phased out, others will transfer to the joint venture’s team based in India. This strategy is intended to utilize Accenture’s global expertise and its specialized center in India to accelerate Telstra’s AI development initiatives.
Effects on Australian Personnel
A consultation phase has been launched for the Australian staff impacted. The schedule for this consultation is currently uncertain. Should these modifications advance, the joint venture intends to provide support to affected workers by presenting redeployment options at Telstra or Accenture, along with career transition programs and severance packages.
Response to Underperformance Allegations
In spite of allegations of underperformance in specific fields, such as AI-enhanced experiences and data platform competencies, the joint venture’s spokesperson asserted that substantial advancements have been achieved. Notable accomplishments include decommissioning outdated platforms, instituting responsible AI governance, refining data architecture, and tapping into global innovation through a Silicon Valley hub.
Conclusion
The Telstra and Accenture joint venture is proposing notable workforce adjustments, concentrating on boosting AI capabilities by relocating some roles to India. This initiative is part of a wider strategy to enhance operational efficiencies and provide a better customer experience. Although encountering some criticism, the venture underscores its accomplishments in modernizing Telstra’s data and AI framework.
Q: What is the main objective of the Telstra-Accenture joint venture?
A: The main objective is to modernize Telstra’s data and AI systems, develop advanced AI tools, and enhance operational efficiencies.
Q: How many jobs are suggested for elimination in the joint venture?
A: Approximately 209 positions are suggested for elimination.
Q: Will there be assistance for those impacted?
A: Yes, impacted employees will be provided with redeployment options and access to career transition services and severance benefits.
Q: Why are certain roles being relocated to India?
A: The roles are being relocated to utilize Accenture’s global expertise and specialist unit in India to fast-track the AI development plan.
Q: Has the joint venture confronted any hurdles?
A: There have been claims of underperformance in particular areas, but the joint venture insists that considerable progress has been made.
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