AI voice technology may replace jobs of around 5,000 Australian voice actors

Voice actors in Australia are facing an existential threat as the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) voice cloning technology begins to replace their roles in corporate and radio settings, The Guardian reported.

The Australian Association of Voice Actors (AAVA) has raised alarms, warning a parliamentary committee that the jobs of approximately 5,000 local voice actors are at risk due to this emerging technology.

Many fear losing work in commercials, audiobooks, and video games as companies opt for cheaper AI-generated voices. The AAVA has reported that one national radio network is actively investing in technology to replace human voice actors.

As AI voice technology continues to evolve, the future of voice acting in Australia hangs in the balance, with actors calling for stronger protections and ethical frameworks to safeguard their livelihoods.