Atlassian CEO explains AI-driven layoffs in video message

Atlassian cut about 1,600 jobs, roughly 10% of its workforce, as it pivots more aggressively toward AI. CEO Mike Cannon-Brookes addressed employees in a four-minute video explaining the layoffs.

In a message on the company's blog he called the decision difficult but necessary as AI reshapes how software companies operate. He said he is "deeply sorry for the disruption" the layoff creates in their lives, and that the shift is not simply about cutting costs but about changing the mix of skills the company needs to build products for the AI era.

About 30% of the affected roles are based in Australia. The Australian-American software firm was founded in 2002 by Cannon-Brookes and Scott Farquhar, both of whom are ranked among Australia's 50 richest people by Forbes.

The cuts come amid a wider shift across the tech industry as companies restructure for the AI era. Last month Block slashed nearly half its workforce, citing productivity gains from AI.

Australia

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