Artificial intelligence is often described in apocalyptic tones.

Depending on who you listen to, it is either about to take every job, or end work as we know it.

But there's a less dramatic, and more useful, way of looking at the future.

Across advanced economies, the real problem isn't too few jobs, but too few workers. Populations are ageing, birth rates are falling , and shortages are widespread.

From hospitals to construction sites, demand for human expertise is growing. AI can help meet it - if we get the choices right.

The Productivity Commission has found that AI could underpin a new wave of productivity growth in Australia.

That's not an abstract number on a spreadsheet. It's a reminder that technology, used wisely, can lift living standards.

MIT economist David Autor ar

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