# Australian Public Services Expand Workplace AI Use

The Mandarin’s 2026 Frank and Fearless survey found that 71% of public servants use AI at work, up from 28% in 2024. Reported adoption was higher among Commonwealth respondents (74%) than state respondents (66%). The survey highlights concerns about safe and effective use, but identifies no specific procurement, contract, or solicitation; it signals a potential market need rather than an announced buying opportunity.

- The adoption figures may inform suppliers’ assessment of demand for public-sector AI governance, workforce training, and assurance services.
- Companies serving Commonwealth and state agencies can use the reported adoption gap to tailor offerings to differing levels of AI use, while recognizing that the survey does not establish agency requirements or funding.
- Procurement teams can treat safe and effective AI use as a planning consideration; the signal provides no procurement timeline or actionable solicitation details.

**Jurisdictions:** international
**Industries:** Information Technology
**Topics:** Artificial Intelligence
**Published:** October 25, 2026

### Government Entities
- Australian Government (Commonwealth public service)
- Australian state governments (state public services)

### Sources
- [Frank and Fearless 2026: Most public servants using AI at work](https://www.themandarin.com.au/322881-frank-and-fearless-2026-most-public-servants-using-ai-at-work) - The Mandarin