Telstra, whose CEO Vicky Brady has been bragging for months about their use of AI, is set to sack hundreds of people this week in a move that is a shock to unions.

The carrier who appears to more interest in their share price and the reaction of investors has been struggling on multiple fronts with the Company now punting on artificial intelligence technology to help them cut jobs and automate processes.

According to the Australian the cuts could come as soon as later today as the Company moves to another five-year strategy.

When told of the cuts they were described as “very distressing” by Treasurer Jim Chalmers and a “national disgrace” by the Communications Workers Union.

What’s not known is how Telstra management will maintain service levels for its premium-paying customers despite employing fewer staff while also cutting back on resources and services.

Telstra senior PR Management are well known for not responding to journalists over issues that impact the perception of the Company and its tainted brand image including when they have been fined million for ripping off consumers.

Telstra employs about 31,000 full-time workers globally.

The cuts are expected to be made across all departments and among management.

A Telstra spokeswoman declined to comment.

Last year the carrier slashed 2800 workers, a move chief executive Vicki Brady said at the time would save up to $350 million and help the telco stay competitive amid rising inflation and energy costs.

In recent months the Company has also moved to lift the price of their services including for mobile and NBN plans.