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Australia’s AI boom: 57% of nation to embrace artificial intelligence in 2026

Reviewed by expert, Sarah Orr
3 min read
21 Jan 2026
computer-use

Boring life admin could become a thing of the past, with new research from Compare the Market revealing Australians are turning to AI in droves to streamline tasks like budget setting and grocery planning this year.

In a nationally representative survey of 1,010 Australians, 57.1% said they would let AI help them in at least one way or more this year, with young people leading the charge.*

Eight in 10 Gen Z respondents planned to use artificial intelligence to speed up household tasks and life admin, compared to 73% of Millennials, 54% of Gen X and just 34% of Baby Boomers.

A quarter of Australians (25.1%) said they’d use AI tools to help them budget better, while 16.9% said they would use AI to choose cheaper groceries.

Other popular uses include:

  • Holiday planning (11.2%)
  • Investigating health issues (9.8%)
  • Organising social events and recreational activities (7%)
  • Streamlining processes at work (7.7%)
  • Eating healthier (14.5%)

Compare the Market’s Sarah Orr said 2026 was the year many would embrace the technology as part of their everyday lives.

“There are fears about the rapid pace of change and the impact more advanced models could have on careers, relationships and the places where we derive our sense of purpose and meaning,” Ms Orr said.

“Existential dread aside, most people are happy to use AI in its more harmless forms to make life a bit easier and get stuff done fast.

“Our research shows Australians are using these tools to map out budgets, plan cheaper and healthier meals, and even create holiday itineraries. With so many tools available for free or at a low cost, it seems like a bit of a no-brainer.

“But just like humans, AI doesn’t always get it right. Don’t assume all the information you’re getting back is correct. Current models remain prone to so-called ‘hallucinations’ and consumers should be extra careful while seeking information about their finances and health.”

With just under 1 in 10 (9.8%) admitting they would use AI to avoid seeing a GP or specialist, Ms Orr warned that information provided by chatbots should complement rather than replace professional advice.

“AI can point you in the right direction, but only a doctor can test and diagnose serious health issues,” Ms Orr said.

“If you have health concerns, consider using AI for some initial research, then verify with a professional.”

*Compare the Market survey of 1,010 Australian adults, conducted December 2025.

For more information, please contact: 

Phillip Portman | 0437 384 471 | [email protected]

Compare the Market is a comparison service that takes the hard work out of shopping around. We make it Simples for Australians to quickly and easily compare and buy insurance, energy, and home loans products from a range of providers. Our easy-to-use comparison tool helps you look for a range of products that may suit your needs and benefit your back pocket.

 

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avatar of author: Phillip Portman

Written by Phillip Portman

When he’s not busy writing, Phillip can usually be found at the movies, playing with his Italian Greyhound Wilma, hanging out with his cockatiel Tiki, or talking about everything pop culture. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Journalism and has previously written about health, entertainment, and lifestyle for various publications. Phillip loves to help others and hopes that people learn something new from his articles.

[email protected]

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