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Commonwealth Bank partners with OpenAI to deliver AI and cyber security education as new data shows nearly half of small businesses aren’t using the technology.
Commonwealth Bank of Australia has unveiled a national technology-skills initiative aimed at helping one million small businesses adopt AI, strengthen their cyber security and build broader digital capability.
The program includes practical learning modules and masterclasses designed to show business owners how to apply emerging technologies, from AI-driven efficiency tools to essential cyber-hygiene practices.
CommBank will also co-develop a suite of AI learning resources in cooperation with OpenAI.
CBA chief executive Matt Comyn said the initiative reflects the bank’s commitment to giving small businesses access to tools that are rapidly reshaping the economy.
“Small businesses are the backbone of Australia’s economy, but many tell us they don’t have the time or resources to explore how technologies such as AI could help them,” Comyn said in a December 5 statement.
“We want every small business to feel confident using digital technologies such as AI, whether they’re starting, running, or growing their business. That also means helping them build strong cyber skills to protect their data, customers, and operations as they go digital.”
The push comes as new findings from the 2025 Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA) Small Business Perspectives Report show 48 per cent of Australian small businesses are not using AI, and only 14 per cent have integrated it into their operations.
CommBank said the program aims to build confidence and practical know-how so businesses can adopt technology safely and sustainably.
COSBOA chair Matthew Addison welcomed the move, arguing that small businesses are eager to embrace new tools but often lack structured support.
“Small businesses are natural innovators and they want to use AI to save time, improve productivity and stay competitive,” Addison said.
“With the right practical support, the benefits for productivity, competitiveness and the broader economy are enormous.”
OpenAI’s chief strategy officer Jason Kwon said the partnership will help expand access to hands-on AI education.
“Thousands of Australian businesses already use ChatGPT to improve efficiency and customer service. AI will be as essential to small business as the internet or mobile banking,” Kwon said.
David Hollingworth has been writing about technology for over 20 years, and has worked for a range of print and online titles in his career. He is enjoying getting to grips with cyber security, especially when it lets him talk about Lego.
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