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Sydney, November 4, 2026 – Canva, the Australian design software company, said on Wednesday that a restructuring would affect 1,271 employees, or about 22 percent of its workforce, as slowing growth and artificial intelligence reshape the software industry.
The figure includes workers who will lose their jobs, change roles or relocate.
Chief executive Melanie Perkins did not disclose how many would be dismissed.
In a message to staff, Ms. Perkins said Canva’s growth had slowed for the first time in a decade and that small adjustments would not prepare the company for its next phase.
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She called the changes the hardest moment in its 13 year history.
The overhaul is intended to make the business leaner and give smaller teams broader responsibility.
Canva plans to combine its product, growth and platform groups, reduce management layers and consolidate specialised roles that, Ms. Perkins said, had fragmented ownership and slowed decisions.
Sydney will become the main base for more product teams.
Most hybrid employees are expected to work in the office two or three days a week from January, while some staff will be asked to consider relocating.
The announcement reflects a wider shift in technology.
Generative artificial intelligence is making it easier for individuals to produce designs and digital content with fewer specialised tools.
Software companies are reassessing staffing needs as new AI services challenge established business models.
Founded by Ms. Perkins, Cliff Obrecht and Cameron Adams, Canva has grown into a global platform used by hundreds of millions.
But its expansion now faces a more difficult environment as technology companies weigh AI’s commercial promise against the cost of developing it.
Canva said departing employees would receive at least six months of salary, alongside career and wellbeing support.
It also plans to offer eligible former staff grants of $10,000 to help start businesses or community projects.
The restructuring comes as Canva prepares for its next stage of growth. Its challenge will be to simplify operations while sustaining its appeal in a crowded market.
The changes show how artificial intelligence is altering not only the products technology companies sell, but also how they organise their work.
Competition continues to intensify rapidly across global markets.
