Machines Can Write, But Should They? Small Businesses Weigh AI’s Role in Creative Work

As artificial intelligence tools become more accessible, Australia’s small businesses are moving fast—but not without hesitation. A new study by BizCover reveals that while 80% of SMEs have adopted or plan to adopt AI by 2027, nearly half are concerned it could erode creative skills and put pressure on workforce confidence.

The Australian Small Business AI Report 2025 surveyed 965 business owners and uncovered a clear paradox: AI is seen as essential by many (with 62% saying it’s important to daily operations), but it’s also viewed as a possible threat to uniquely human strengths.

“There’s enthusiasm, but it’s cautious,” explains Sharon Kenny from BizCover. “Yes, AI tools are helping SMEs work faster and smarter—but they’re also prompting tough questions about skills, privacy, and the human touch in business.”

Creative skills like writing, design and content development are particularly in the spotlight, with 49% of business owners fearing they could be diminished or undervalued by growing reliance on automation.

This concern is more than theoretical. In the marketing and communications sector, for instance, businesses are increasingly deploying generative AI for email campaigns, blogs, and ad copy—raising debates about originality, copyright, and brand authenticity.

Yet, most small businesses aren’t rushing to replace people. Only 16% said they would actively choose AI over hiring a person, and 18% rejected the idea outright. For many, AI is being used to complement—not replace—human creativity.

“SMEs are harnessing AI to speed up ideation, automate repetitive tasks and free up time for deeper work,” Kenny says. “It’s not about removing creativity—it’s about reallocating it.”

Despite fears, optimism prevails. Sixty percent of business owners see AI as a growth driver, not a job killer. They believe the shift will demand new types of talent, particularly in critical thinking, ethical use of technology, and problem-solving—areas where humans have the upper hand.

Globally, similar trends are emerging. According to PwC, AI could contribute up to US$15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, largely through productivity gains and augmented human intelligence¹.

As Australia’s small business sector embraces these changes, one thing is clear: navigating the AI era will require not only technical tools, but cultural change and ongoing upskilling.

“There’s no one-size-fits-all approach,” says Kenny. “But staying curious and ethically grounded is key for any SME navigating this AI evolution.”

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