Telstra Offshores AI Roles; Jobs Cut as Tech Work Shifts to India

In a strategic move to accelerate its digital transformation, Australian telecommunications giant Telstra has announced the cutting of 209 jobs from its Data and AI joint venture with Accenture.

The decision was revealed on February 10, 2026.

It involves shifting a significant portion of artificial intelligence and data operations to India to leverage global expertise and streamline the technology roadmap.

The Role of the Telstra-Accenture Joint Venture

The layoffs primarily impact the $700 million joint venture (JV) formed between Telstra and Accenture in early 2025.

This partnership was established to modernize Telstra’s data platforms and embed “responsible AI” into its core services.

By moving these roles to its “specialist hub” in India, the JV aims to tap into Accenture’s global capabilities and vast talent pool.

Management stated that the restructuring is designed to deliver the company’s AI roadmap more quickly.

They also aim to achieve long-term cost efficiencies and enhance the overall customer experience.

Strategic Pivot Toward “Agentforce” and Automation

This workforce reduction is part of a broader, multi-year strategy led by CEO Vicki Brady to create a leaner, AI-first organization.

In May 2025, Telstra predicted its workforce would shrink by 2030 due to “AI efficiencies.”

The company is increasingly relying on “Agentforce.” These are autonomous AI agents that work alongside human staff to manage complex data and customer service tasks.

While unions have expressed concern over the offshoring of high-tech roles, Telstra maintains that the shift is necessary to remain competitive in a sector where automation is rapidly becoming the standard for operational excellence.

Impact on Employees and Support Measures

The 209 job cuts come on the heels of a massive restructuring in 2024. During that period, Telstra eliminated 2,800 roles from its enterprise business.

For the currently affected staff, the company has promised support through redeployment opportunities within Telstra or Accenture.

The company will provide career transition programs and retrenchment benefits to those whom it cannot place in new roles.

Telstra is cutting 209 local jobs.

Furthermore, the company’s commitment to India underscores the country’s growing status as a critical global hub for high-end AI development and data science.

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