In a controversial move that’s sparked global discussion on AI ethics and workplace rights, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has come under fire after it was revealed that a long-serving employee was let go and replaced by the AI system she helped build.
Kathryn Sullivan, 65, had worked at the bank for 25 years before being made redundant in July 2025.
Her final assignment involved training the bank’s new “Bumblebee AI” chatbot, including scripting and testing its responses.
What she didn’t realize at the time was that she was essentially preparing the system to replace her job.
“I was completely shell-shocked,” Sullivan told The Sun.
“We just feel like we were nothing, just a number.”
Despite acknowledging the potential of AI in modern workplaces, Sullivan emphasized the importance of regulation and worker protections.
“I support the use of AI, but there must be safeguards. There’s a fine line between innovation and exploitation,” she added.
Initially, the bank did not respond to her inquiries for over a week.
Eventually, CBA admitted that its decision to cut 45 roles had been premature and not properly assessed.
The bank apologized and offered the affected employees, including Sullivan, their jobs back.
However, Sullivan declined the offer, saying the position now felt unstable and uncertain.
A spokesperson for CBA admitted the layoffs were mishandled:
“Our initial assessment did not fully consider all relevant factors. We’ve apologized to the affected staff and recognized our process was flawed.”
Despite the controversy, CBA continues to expand its AI programs. CEO Matt Comyn recently announced a partnership with OpenAI aimed at combating fraud, scams, and cybercrime.
“Our collaboration with OpenAI shows our dedication to using advanced technology to improve customer service and security in Australia,” Comyn said.
The incident has reignited global conversations about AI ethics, job displacement, and the rights of workers who train the very systems that later replace them.
Around the world, AI is increasingly being used to handle customer service, data analysis, and administrative tasks and concerns over job losses continue to rise.
In Nigeria, where banks and fintech companies are rapidly adopting AI for customer support and fraud detection, Sullivan’s story hits close to home.
