Artificial Intelligence in Bendigo: What Workers, Job Seekers and Professionals Need to Know

By the end of 2026, it's estimated that over 30% of jobs in Bendigo will be impacted by artificial intelligence, according to a report by the City of Greater Bendigo.

This matters now because the integration of AI into various sectors is happening at an unprecedented pace, affecting not just manufacturing and logistics but also service-oriented industries like healthcare and finance. The ability to understand and work with AI systems will become a critical skill for workers, job seekers, and professionals across the board. For instance, the Bendigo Hospital is already exploring the use of AI in patient care, and the La Trobe University is offering courses in AI and machine learning.

In Bendigo, several organisations and initiatives are addressing the need for AI literacy and upskilling. The Bendigo Tech School, located on McCrae Street, offers workshops and training programs in AI and data science for students and professionals. Similarly, the Bendigo Innovation Centre on Mundy Street provides resources and mentorship for startups and small businesses looking to leverage AI in their operations. The City of Greater Bendigo's Economic Development Department has also launched the 'Bendigo AI Hub' program, which aims to foster collaboration between local businesses, academia, and government to drive AI adoption and innovation.

Understanding the Local Impact

Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that between 2020 and 2025, the number of jobs in the tech sector in Bendigo increased by 25%, with the average salary for tech professionals rising to over $83,000 per annum. Furthermore, a survey conducted by the Bendigo Business Council found that 60% of local businesses are planning to invest in AI solutions within the next two years, with 40% citing improved efficiency and productivity as the primary motivation. As of June 2026, the Bendigo AI Hub has supported 15 local businesses in implementing AI solutions, resulting in a combined cost savings of $1.2 million.

For workers, job seekers, and professionals in Bendigo, the key takeaway is that acquiring AI skills is no longer a niche requirement but a mainstream necessity. This includes not just technical skills like programming and data analysis but also soft skills like critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. The good news is that there are numerous resources available locally, from the aforementioned Bendigo Tech School and Innovation Centre to online courses and professional networks like the Bendigo AI Meetup group, which meets monthly at the Old Church on the Hill in Hargreaves Street.