Qantas is pursuing a strategic review of offshore outsourcing and AI-driven modernization that could affect Australian jobs and the airline’s operations, with a focus on back-office functions and efficiency gains.

The updating publication notes were made on August 4, 2026, with the story originally issued a few minutes earlier.

Qantas reported a flat first-half statutory profit after tax of $925 million and is set to unveil full-year results later in August, while the carrier has recently hired thousands of Australian operational staff and opened a new technology hub in Adelaide creating about 400 roles.

There has been ongoing debate over automation and restructuring, including leadership reductions at headquarters in 2024.

The airline emphasizes that it is exploring technology and AI to modernize operations and improve outcomes for customers and staff, but says no formal agreement or decisions have been made yet, including with Accenture.

There is no binding agreement with Accenture and no decisions have been reached, as Qantas continues its modernization drive.

A decision later this year will determine whether to outsource or cut roles in marketing, finance, human resources, and other back-office functions as part of cost-cutting and AI-driven overhaul.

Any outsourcing would target back-office roles to accelerate efficiency, with details on scope and timing to be announced.

The final decision on outsourcing and job reductions is expected later in the year.

The report originates from The Sydney Morning Herald and is categorized under National news.

Unnamed sources briefed on the matter suggest the situation is fluid and subject to internal discussions and approvals.

Qantas is reportedly considering outsourcing up to 1,000 roles to India in a deal with Accenture under the project codenamed iQ, with discussions advancing toward faster AI deployment.