The Public Service Association (PSA) is questioning the Government’s claim that artificial intelligence can replace thousands of public service workers, saying New Zealanders remain unconvinced that technology can deliver the same level of public service.
The union says a majority of New Zealanders reject the idea that AI can replace the work currently carried out by public servants, arguing there is little publicly available evidence to support suggestions that as many as 9,000 public sector roles could be eliminated through increased use of artificial intelligence.
The PSA is calling on the Government to explain the evidence behind its plans, saying New Zealanders deserve greater transparency about how decisions affecting the public service are being made.
According to the union, large-scale job cuts risk reducing the quality and accessibility of frontline public services, with concerns that fewer staff could lead to longer waiting times, reduced support for vulnerable communities and increased pressure on the remaining workforce.
The PSA says artificial intelligence has the potential to improve productivity and assist public servants, but argues it should complement workers rather than replace them, particularly in roles that rely on professional judgement, public trust and direct engagement with communities.
The concerns come as the union launches an election campaign aimed at influencing the outcome of the 2026 General Election.
The PSA says the campaign is focused on protecting quality public services and ensuring future governments invest in a capable public sector that can respond to the needs of New Zealanders.
Among the union’s priorities are rebuilding public services after recent job losses, strengthening healthcare and education, addressing the cost-of-living pressures facing working families, supporting fair employment conditions, and ensuring greater investment in essential public infrastructure and services.
The PSA argues these issues will be critical in determining the future of the public service and the quality of services available to communities across Aotearoa.
The Government has maintained that adopting new technologies, including artificial intelligence, can improve efficiency across the public sector while helping deliver better value for taxpayers.
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