New Delhi, August 4, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Australian flag carrier Qantas is considering outsourcing up to 1,000 corporate roles to India as part of a wider cost-cutting and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven transformation programme, according to a media report.
According to an analysis by The Australia Today, the initiative, internally referred to as Project iQ, is being discussed with consulting firm Accenture and could involve shifting functions such as marketing, finance, human resources and other back-office operations to India.
Qantas has confirmed that it is in the early stages of discussions with Accenture but clarified that no final decision has been taken on the proposed restructuring.
The report said the airline is looking to expand the use of AI and automation to improve operational efficiency, lower costs and modernise its business processes.
Project iQ is reportedly being overseen by Qantas Chief Technology, AI and Transformation Officer Rachel Yangoyan, with the involvement of Chief Executive Vanessa Hudson and other senior executives.
The proposal has sparked concern among labour unions in Australia. The Australian Services Union (ASU), which represents a large number of Qantas corporate employees, has expressed apprehension over the possible impact on local jobs and urged the airline to uphold its commitment to Australian employment.
According to the report, the union warned that replacing experienced staff with offshore operations and AI-enabled systems could affect service quality and reduce institutional expertise.
Qantas, however, said its technology strategy is not focused solely on reducing workforce numbers. The airline stated that it has added thousands of jobs in Australia in recent years, including pilots and engineers, and expects recruitment in operational roles to continue.
Chief Executive Vanessa Hudson has previously said AI has the potential to improve aircraft maintenance, customer experience and operational performance across the aviation sector.
The reported move comes amid a broader trend of Australian companies exploring offshore operations and AI-enabled transformation. Companies including Woolworths, Officeworks and Telstra have also adopted offshore service models and technology partnerships in recent years.
According to the report, a final decision on Project iQ, including the number of positions that may be outsourced, is expected later this year.
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