WiseTech Drops the First AI Bomb as Software Giant Slashes 2000 Jobs in AI Push
Australian Financial Review
ENRICHED
Details
- Date Published
- 25 Feb 2026
- Priority Score
- 2
- Australian
- Yes
- Created
- 25 Feb 2026, 04:30 am
Description
Rapid, large-scale deployment of artificial intelligence is happening, with the companies most at risk of disruption leading the charge.
Summary
WiseTech's strategic pivot towards AI underscores a significant shift in the tech industry, aligning with the broader trend of incorporating artificial intelligence to remain competitive. The company's decision to lay off 2000 employees highlights the transformative impact AI can have on workforce dynamics, raising questions about the socio-economic consequences of such deployments. The article does not directly address existential or catastrophic risks but contributes to the discourse around the rapid adoption of AI and its implications for global business practices. WiseTech's case may prompt policymakers in Australia and beyond to consider regulations that balance innovation with potential societal impacts.
Body
TechnologyChanticleerPrint articleFeb 25, 2026 – 12.10pmIt’s only a few years since Richard White, the founder and executive chairman of logistics software group WiseTech Global, was a little sceptical about the rush of software companies claiming they were artificial intelligence businesses.But watching your share price plunge almost 60 per cent in six months has a way of focusing the mind. White is now so committed to WiseTech’s future as an AI-powered company that he’s let his AI agents write a 975-word “credo” that explains their vision for the business and their role.Loading...James Thomson is senior Chanticleer columnist based in Melbourne. He was the Companies editor and editor of BRW Magazine. Connect with James on Twitter. Email James at j.thomson@afr.comSaveLog in or Subscribe to save articleShareCopy linkCopiedEmailLinkedInTwitterFacebookCopy linkCopiedShare via...Gift this articleSubscribe to gift this articleGift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe.Subscribe nowAlready a subscriber? LoginLicense articleFollow the topics, people and companies that matter to you.Find out moreRead MoreChanticleerEarnings seasonAISoftwareWisetech GlobalRichard WhiteOpinionFetching latest articles