Regional Tourism Operators Unfazed by AI Automation Risk

Luke Gnocco, founder of Poseidon Adventure operating in Townsville and Brisbane, remains unconcerned about artificial intelligence replacing his staff because electronics and water do not mix well. His marine tourism company runs guided walks on Magnetic Island, personal watercraft trips, and coral viewing expeditions. Most employees possess marine science backgrounds and deep passion for the ocean. Gnocco notes that human connection and hands-on guidance remain fundamental to the job. He believes that tourism products rooted in Australian nature and waterways cannot be substituted by technology. Recent findings from the policy consultancy SGS Economics and Planning indicate that roughly thirty per cent of tasks across regional Queensland face exposure to artificial intelligence automation. Principal Alison Holloway explains that urban centers house most professional services and office roles, making city jobs far more vulnerable. Brisbane leads with nearly forty per cent of tasks at risk, followed by the Gold Coast at thirty-seven point one per cent, the Sunshine Coast at thirty-six point four per cent, Cairns at thirty-six per cent, Townsville and Rockhampton at thirty-five point six per cent, and Mackay at thirty-four point nine per cent. Holloway attributes the Gold Coast figure to administrative office duties within its tourism sector. The study utilized data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics alongside research by Jobs and Skills Australia. Jobs requiring physical presence, nursing, or care work show lower vulnerability, while finance and office positions face higher disruption.

Context

Artificial intelligence tools are increasingly capable of handling digital and desk-bound tasks, while physical and outdoor labor remains difficult for software to replicate. Regional economies that rely heavily on outdoor environments and direct human contact often experience different economic shifts during technological changes compared to urban office districts.