Generative AI has sparked excitement, fear, and a whole lot of uncertainty.

Are we on the cusp of a new industrial revolution - or stuck in a national holding pattern?

In this episode of Change Happens, Jenelle sits down with two of Microsoft Australia’s top AI leaders: Sarah Carney, National Chief Technology Officer, and Tim Allen, National Skills Director. Together, they explore the reality behind the AI hype and offer a clear-eyed view on how Australia can move from hesitation to transformation.

In this conversation, Tim and Sarah share:

• Why we’re in a ‘collective limbo’ when it comes to AI adoption
• What Australia risks by holding back - and what we gain by leaning in
• Why we need to build AI literacy across industries, from nurses to sales teams
• Why leaders must make space to “play” with AI, and how that can lead to scale
• The growing importance of coaching, clarity, and communication as core leadership skills
• How AI can enhance, not replace, our humanity at work and home

Host: Jenelle McMaster, Deputy CEO and People & Culture Leader at EY
Guests: Tim Allen and Sarah Carney, Microsoft Australia