Microsoft commits $25 billion to train three million Australians in AI skills
Microsoft will train three million Australians in artificial intelligence by 2028 as part of a $25 billion investment in the country's AI infrastructure, cyber defence and workforce development through 2029. The company announced the initiative in Sydney on 24 April alongside Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The skilling drive targets three sectors: schools, workplaces and community organisations. In schools, Microsoft is rolling out Elevate for Educators, a free programme for teachers and school leaders to use AI responsibly in classrooms.
The company is partnering with youth platform Anyway to deploy an AI-powered Career Coach to up to 1,000 schools. The tool provides students with personalised guidance on study and work decisions at critical transition points.
For non-profits and social impact organisations, Microsoft is expanding Elevate for Changemakers, which offers AI readiness credentials and practical training focused on safe, community-aligned AI use.
What this means for HR leaders
The scale of this commitment signals that AI skills will become a baseline employment requirement across sectors. HR teams will need to assess workforce readiness and identify upskilling gaps within their own organisations.
Microsoft achieved its earlier goal of training one million people across Australia and New Zealand by the end of 2025 ahead of schedule. The new three-million target by 2028 reflects accelerating demand for AI-capable workers.
Albanese said the package aligns with the Federal Government's National AI Plan. "We want to make sure all Australians benefit from AI," he said. "Microsoft's long-term investment in our national capability will help deliver on that plan - strengthening our cyber defences and creating opportunity for Australian workers and businesses."
Infrastructure expansion
Microsoft will expand Azure AI supercomputing and cloud infrastructure across Australia, including deploying advanced AI processors. The company plans to increase its local cloud footprint by more than 140% by 2029.
The company is also deepening work with the Australian Signals Directorate through the Microsoft-ASD Cyber Shield programme, extending coverage to additional federal agencies to improve security configuration and threat visibility across critical government systems.
Satya Nadella, Microsoft chairman and chief executive, said the investment reflects confidence in Australia's position in global AI growth. "Australia has an enormous opportunity to translate AI into real economic growth and societal benefit," he said.
For HR professionals, understanding AI for Human Resources is increasingly essential. HR executives may also benefit from exploring an AI Learning Path for CHROs to develop strategic workforce planning and talent management skills in an AI-driven environment.
Your membership also unlocks:
