Public Sector Podcast
The Public Sector Podcast brings together live talks, interviews, and roundtable discussions with public sector leaders from around the world. It is presented by Public Sector Network, a social enterprise that helps governments connect and share best practice. Episodes explore the challenges and innovations shaping public services, with insights drawn from events and online networks. The show is aimed at public servants looking for practical knowledge and fresh perspectives.
Episodes
Dreaming Big – where playfulness meets performance - Adrian Clutterbuck - Episode 201
Join Adrian Clutterbuck,Executive Director Strategy and Transformation, Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service as he opens an honest, unpolished account of building an innovation climate at Children's Health Queensland. At its centre is the Imagination Fund: 303 staff ideas, 20 funded, and a clear lesson that the money was never the point. He shares what worked - an asthma model
From Leadership Vision to Public Value: Building a First-of-Its-Kind Digital Service Model In-House - Marco Palermo - Episode 200
Residents coming to the City of Toronto for one benefit applied for one benefit - re-entering the same details each time, and never learning about the other subsidies they qualified for. This week, Marco Palermo, Director, Human Services Integration & Transformation Social Development, Finance & Administration, City of Toronto describes how Toronto's Human Services Integration Unit flipped it: one
Connected WA: Tackling Connectivity, Capability, and Inclusion in Regional Communities
Digital connectivity in regional Western Australia remains one of the state's toughest challenges. This week, Sarah McCall, Principal Policy Officer, Office of Digital Government, Department of the Premier and Cabinet and Stephanie Milan, Manager, Regional Digital Solutions, Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development explore what it will take to shift the dial - from infrastr
AI That Supports Decisions - Not Replaces Them - Kenneth Kicia - Episode 198
AI delivers the most value when it sharpens human judgment - not when it tries to replace it. This week, Kenneth Kicia, Chief Information Officer, Florida Department of Corrections looks at how leaders can position AI as a practical decision-support layer, helping teams move faster and smarter without handing over responsibility. Kenneth breaks down which decisions benefit most from AI-assisted in
MontCo + AI: Delivering Better Public Services with Trust and Transparency - Neil Makhija - Episode 197
Montgomery County is treating AI as a practical capacity multiplier for local government—helping teams respond faster, reduce admin burden, and improve outcomes in high-volume services like elections, 911, courts, and human services. Join Neil Makhija, Commissioner, Montgomery County as he explores how counties can move beyond interest and pilots into resident-centred implementation that deliver
Building a Future-Ready Workforce and Reskilling for the AI Era: Required Skills for 2026-2030 - Episode 195
A future-ready NSW Government depends on how well public servants and AI work together, not on people or technology alone. This week, Raffaele Marcelino, Executive Director, Learning and Teaching, Tafe NSW, Jane Lin, Executive Director Data, Strategy and Performance, Department of Creative Industries, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport, Andrew Spiegelman, Head of Data & Analytics, Service NSW, Dan B
Navigating Responsible AI in Small and Medium Businesses - Lee Hickin - Episode 194
In this episode, Lee Hickin, Executive Director, National AI Centre breaks down what responsible AI actually means for small to medium enterprises in Australia—and why vague advice is one of the biggest reasons SMEs hesitate to adopt. Through the work of the National AI Centre, the talk reframes "responsible" as something practical and achievable, not a heavyweight compliance exercise. You'll hear
Beyond Technology: Transforming Government Operations - Rip Colvin - Episode 193
Government doesn't transform just by buying new tech — it transforms when it modernises operations. Join Rip Colvin, Executive Director, Florida Justice Administrative Commission as he digs into how leaders upgrade the systems, processes, and capabilities that improve execution, strengthen accountability, and ultimately deliver better public services. Rip explores how "back office" functions like
Executing the Finance Reform Program: Successfully Deploying the Whole-of-Government Finance System - Matt Moffat & Sarah Taylor - Episode 191
This week, we are joined by Matt Moffat, Program Director, Department of Treasury and Finance, Sarah Taylor, Chief Financial Officer & Executive Director, Corporate Services, Department for Correctional Services who look at what it takes to deliver a world-class Treasury capability through a generational uplift—enabling faster, more accurate, and reformed financial services that better meet modern
Building a Future - Fit Public Sector Workforce - Josie Cluer - Episode 190
This week we sit down with Josie Cluer, Global Government & Infrastructure Workforce and Citizens Leader, EY, Alexander Evans, Associate Dean for Strategic Development, School of Public Policy, London School of Economics, Robyn Scott, CEO & Co-Founder, Apolitical and Kate Delgado-Kizer, EY Global Government & Infrastructure Sector Insights Senior Analyst who focus on the growing pressure governmen
Accessibility and Inclusion by Design: Closing the Digital Divide - E189
This week, our episode marks a timely moment—20 years since New Zealand signed the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)—and Victoria Wray, Manager Agency Standards and Integration, Department of Internal Affairs and Shu Run Yap, Principal Advisor, Operations and Delivery Strategy & Enablement, Whaikaha - Ministry of Disabled People use it as a lens to discuss accessibi
Next Generation Policing in South Australia – How Technology and Data is Enhancing Frontline Response and Building Safer Communities - Vaiju Joshi - Episode 188
Vaiju Joshi, Portfolio Director, Mobility Transformationn, SA Police looks at next-generation policing at SA Police and how technology can better support frontline work — with the bigger goal of safer communities. It highlights the realities officers face across metro and regional areas: long distances, constant context switching, limited connectivity, and heavy admin. It then outlines SAPOL's "mo
Navigating the Digital Frontier: GNB's Approach to AI and Innovation - Tony Daye - Episode 187
As governments accelerate AI and emerging tech adoption, Tony Daye, Chief Digital Officer, Finance and Treasury Board, Government of New Brunswick explores why trust, transparency, and governance are now just as critical as innovation itself. Featuring insights from the Government of New Brunswick, it highlights how embedding accountability and ethics into day-to-day decision-making helps agencies
Q&A with Arizona Secretary of State's CISO Michael Moore - Episode 186
Join Michael Moore, CISO for the Arizona Secretary of State's Office, as he discusses how cybersecurity in government is becoming a leadership and public trust issue—especially in elections, where cyber risk overlaps with physical threats, misinformation, operational logistics, and legal pressures. Referencing a cyber incident he attributes to Iran, he outlines what agencies need now: stronger fun
Quantum Encryption & Government Readiness: Preparing for a Post-Quantum Future - Michael Watson & Glenn Schmitz - Episode 185
As quantum technologies evolve, the encryption protecting government systems, critical infrastructure, and citizen data is facing emerging risk. This episode brings together Michael Watson, Chief Information Officer of the Commonwealth, Virginia Information Technologies Agency and Glenn Schmitz, Chief Information Security Officer, Virginia State Corporation Commission to unpack what the post-quant
EY global research: The intelligence layer - how agentic AI can connect the infrastructure industry - Steve Lewis - Episode 184
In this week's episode, Steve Lewis (EY Global Infrastructure Technology Leader and Head of Infrastructure Advisory, Hong Kong) unpacks why decades of digital investment still haven't closed the productivity gap in infrastructure delivery—and why agentic AI could change the equation by surfacing better insight earlier, improving decision-making, and helping teams manage risk and complexity with mo
Trust That Outlives Technology: Protecting Public Data in the Quantum Era - Sandeep Taileng - Episode 183
This week, Sandeep Taileng, Co Chair - National Committee For Information Access & Protection Requirements and Information Security Leader, State Trustees (Victoria) explores why quantum readiness is no longer a future problem, but a responsibility we need to act on today. Sandeep discusses the growing risk of "harvest now, decrypt later" attacks, and why organisations must start making technology
Enabling Seamless Mobility Through Digital Government: Transporting Services into the Future - Erika-Kirsten Easton - Episode 182
Mobility is becoming a digital service challenge, not just a transport one. As expectations rise, agencies need connected, secure, user-friendly experiences that make it easier for people and industry to interact with government. In this week's episode, Erika-Kirsten Easton, Chief Data Officer and Director General, Enterprise Service, Data and Architecture, Transport Canada shares how they are mo
Securing Innovation Without Stalling It - Ian Pham - Episode 181
How do you move fast in the public sector without compromising security or compliance? In this episode, Ian Pham, Chief Information Security Officer, Victorian Managed Insurance Authority explores how organisations can embed cyber risk thinking into digital services and emerging tech from day one — enabling innovation that's both bold and secure. Ian also discuss why the real transformation happen
Confident AI Adoption in the Public Sector - Sam Jones - Episode 180
This week, Sam Jones, Executive Director Corporate Services, Office of Public Prosecutions Victoria explores the rise of the "cybernetic colleague": using AI to expand organisational capacity and take repetitive work off people's plates, so teams can focus on more strategic, human, and high-value tasks. It looks at what this shift means in practice, and how leaders can set teams up to adopt AI con
Beyond the Firewall: The Human Element in Cybersecurity - Corina Hernandez-Muñoz - Episode 179
In this episode, Corina Hernandez-Muñoz, Head, Cyber Behaviour and Culture | Enterprise Information Security (EIS), Export Development Canada explores why effective cybersecurity depends just as much on people as it does on technology. As digital threats become more complex, organisations are recognising that strong systems alone aren't enough — building awareness, shared responsibility and a cult
Strengthening Cyber Resilience in Tennessee: What's Next for 2026 - Aimé Nsengiyumva - Episode 178
In this episode, Aimé Nsengiyumva, Deputy-Chief Information Security Officer, Department of Finance and Administration, State of Tennessee shares how the state is strengthening its cybersecurity posture as threats become more complex. The keynote reflects on recent progress and explains how Tennessee is aligning with growing federal momentum to better protect both state and local government system
Extending Governance Reach. Elevating Quality. Powered by AI - Cassandra Bisset - Episode 177
This week's episode brought to you by Objective, features Cassandra Bisset, VP Strategy, Objective who looks back at the Innovation Showcase in Victoria, Australia. Cassie explains how quickly AI has shifted from "emerging" to urgent, with public sector teams under pressure to adopt while managing trust, risk, and tight budgets. The key message is "readiness over hype". With many AI projects fa
Making AI Work in Government: The System Behind the Scale - Dan Roelink - Episode 176
This week, Dan Roelink, Director, Office for AI, Digital.NSW, NSW Department of Customer Service explores why the biggest barrier to AI in government is no longer understanding the technology, but removing the organisational and system "friction" that prevents safe, lawful, and scalable adoption. From an inside-government perspective, Dan looks at what it takes to move beyond pilots and experime
Scaling Ethical AI in Higher Education and Public Systems - Dr Robbie Melton - Episode 175
This week Dr Robbie Melton, Vice President SMART AI Technology Innovations, Tennessee State University explores how AI is changing both education and government, and what it takes for institutions to move beyond experimentation into responsible, practical adoption. The conversation focuses on embedding intelligent tools across curriculum, student services, and institutional strategy in ways that i
Delivering Measurable Public Impact in Georgia - Tricia Pridemore - Episode 174
Listen in this we as we sit down with Tricia Pridemore, Commissioner, Georgia Public Service Commission, who explores how public sector organisations can move beyond experimentation and turn innovation into measurable, lasting impact. Rather than focusing on pilots alone, the Tricia highlights what it takes to scale initiatives across agencies and embed people-centred outcomes into everyday operat
AI vs. AI: Navigating California's new frontier in defending innovation, trust, and the digital state - Thea Mann - Episode 173
Join Thea Mann, Chief Information Security Officer, Office of Data and Innovation, as she examines California's position at the forefront of global innovation — and at the centre of an increasingly complex cyber threat landscape. As artificial intelligence becomes a tool for both defence and attack, the conversation explores how speed, adaptability and strategic foresight will determine who stays
Accelerating Digital Service Innovation through Whole of Government Digital Platforms - Alberto Delgi Esposti - Episode 172
Listen in this week as Alberto Delgi Esposti, Chief Technology Officer, Office of Digital Government, Department of Premier and Cabinet WA explores how Western Australia is transforming service delivery through whole-of-government digital platforms, including ServiceWA, the WA Identity Gateway and WA.gov.au. It highlights how these connected platforms are reducing duplication, simplifying access a
Interview with IBM's Rob Wilmot - Episode 171
In this episode, we catch up with Rob Wilmot, General Manager and Managing Partner, IBM Consulting Canada about why AI is being positioned as a major productivity lever for government, particularly in Canada. Rob outlines the opportunity to move from pilots to real impact by applying AI to practical, high-volume processes and improving citizen experiences. The conversation also covers what it tak
Bridging the Gap: Strengthening Collaboration Across Technology, Program, and Leadership - Sarah Soto-Taylor, Chris Given - Episode 170
This week, we are joined by Sarah Soto-Taylor, Deputy Secretary of Strategic Development, California Government Operations Agency and Chris Given, Deputy Secretary for Technology and Innovation, California Government Operations Agency who explore why cross-functional collaboration is essential for turning innovation into real-world impact. By bringing technologists and programme leaders into the s
Government Response to Data Breaches: Privacy Lessons Learned and Best Practices - Arilea Sill, Kathy Hartlen - Episode 169
As data breaches become more common, governments need to be ready to respond quickly, clearly and in a way that protects public trust. Join Arilea Sill, Chief Information Access and Privacy Officer, Province of Nova Scotia and Kathy Hartlen, Manager, Privacy Program, Province Nova Scotia as they delve into how the way an agency handles a breach can either undermine confidence or strengthen long-t
Future-Forward Georgia – Innovation with Integrity - Shawnzia Thomas - Episode 168
In this episode, Shawnzia Thomas, State Chief Information Officer and Executive Director, Georgia Technology Authority explores how Georgia is advancing digital transformation by weaving innovation into the fabric of everyday government operations. Shawnzia highlights how leaders are moving beyond pilots and positioning technology as a core driver of smarter, more responsive governance — with a cl
Making Digital Security Everyone's Business – Uplevelling Awareness and Skills Across the Organisation to Navigate the Modern Digital World - Peter Floyd - Episode 167
Tune in this week to hear Peter Floyd, Chief Digital Officer at the Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers, as he shares a practical and people-focused approach to making cyber security everyone's business. He explains why most cyber risk comes from everyday behaviours—not technology—and how organisations can lift awareness and capability across the workforce without extra budget or
Striking the Balance Between Risk and Tech Innovation - David Shanks - Episode 166
In our latest episode, David Shanks, Deputy Commissioner of Enterprise and Integrated Integrity Services at Inland Revenue New Zealand, explores how governments can strike the right balance between embracing technological innovation and managing risk. Drawing on personal experience across regulation, digital policy and emerging technology, he reflects on the opportunities AI presents — and the ver
Progress on the Digital Government Strategic Plan: Advancing Wave 3 Goals - Sarah Tuneberg - Episode 165
In this episode we hear from Sarah Tuneberg, Director, Colorado Digital Services, as she unpacks what Wave 3 of the Digital Government Strategic Plan means in practice for agencies. She walks through key milestones, reflects on lessons learned from recent digital transformation efforts, and discusses how governments can move past long-standing challenges to deliver more innovative, citizen-focused
From IM/IT Reform to Citizen-Centric Government: The Journey to Connected Services BC - Shannon Salter - Episode 164
In this episode, Shannon Salter — Deputy Minister to the Premier, Cabinet Secretary and Head of the BC Public Service — shares British Columbia's vision to make government feel simple, human and connected by 2030. She outlines how "Connected Services BC" aims to redesign services around real life events, so people experience one coordinated system rather than navigating multiple ministries and pro
Strength in diversity: Unlocking cyber security's full potential - Episode 163
This episode features The Hon. Victor Dominello, Chief Executive Officer, Future Government Institute, Jacqui Loustau, AWSN Executive Director, Australian Women in Security Network, Shyvone Forster, Director - Cyber Operations, Department of Home Affairs who explore how embracing diversity across skills, backgrounds and ways of thinking can significantly strengthen cyber resilience. The discussio
Bridging the Digital Skills Gap in Government - Jennifer Dobell - Episode 162
In this episode, we hear from Jennifer Dobell, Chief Operating Officer at the Australian Financial Security Authority (AFSA), as she shares practical, hard-earned insights on closing the digital skills gap in government. Drawing on her experience leading major national and state workforce strategies, Jennifer breaks down what it really takes to align organisational goals, tech strategy, and workfo
Visionary Leaders: Future-Proofing Public Services: Digital Priorities and the Road to 2032 - Episode 161
What does Aotearoa need to build a truly future-ready public service? This episode brings together Karl Le Quesne, Chief Electoral Officer, Electoral Commission, Glenys Talivai, Chief Executive Officer, Public Trust, Megan Main, CEO, ACC, NZ, Jo Healey, VP, Customer, Fujitsu to examine the core elements shaping government to 2032 — from innovation and iwi partnership to the rise of AI and the ev
Trust, Technology & Rights in the Digital Age - Michael Harvey - Episode 160
In this episode, we are joined by Michael Harvey, Information and Privacy Commissioner, Government of British Columbia. Commissioner Harvey shares his insights on what it means to take a rights-first approach to innovation — exploring how embedding privacy from the outset can strengthen public trust, enhance digital service delivery, and ensure that innovation in government remains both responsibl
Data-Driven Corrections: Turning Operational Data into Actionable Insights - Sylvester Hubbard III - Episode 159
In this insightful episode of the Public Sector Podcast, Sylvester Hubbard, Director of Enterprise Application Services at the Virginia Department of Corrections, takes listeners inside the complex world of data-driven corrections. He explains how the Department manages vast amounts of data—from inmate management and facility security to re-entry programs and workforce operations—and the challenge
Public Affairs in the Age of AI - Elliot Stein - Episode 158
When a pre-ransomware cyberattack hit St Vincent's Health Australia, Acting National Director of Corporate Affairs and Communications Elliot Stein found himself leading through uncertainty. In this episode, he takes us inside the tense 72 hours that followed—where every decision, from going public early to engaging government partners, was guided by one principle: trust. Elliot also reflects on t
Estonia's vision for a data and AI driven society: leading the world in data economy - Ott Velsberg - Episode 157
In this episode, we explore alongside Ott Velsberg, Government Chief Data Officer, Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications, how Estonia—a global pioneer in digital transformation—is redefining what's possible with data and artificial intelligence. As one of the most digitally advanced nations in the world, Estonia is moving beyond e-governance to integrate AI across its economy, p
Securing the Queensland Olympics as the world descends - Dr David Tuffley - Episode 156
This episode featuring Dr David Tuffley, Senior Lecturer Senior Fellow | Higher Education Academy School of Information & Communication Technology Institute of Integrated & Intelligent Systems (IIIS), Griffith University, dives into the high-stakes world of cybersecurity at major sporting events, where protecting critical systems like ticketing, broadcasting, and athlete data is non-negotiable.
Creating the Tech Foundation to Enable Modern Digital Service Delivery: Unpacking Emerging 2026 Priorities - Jarrod Cowley-Grimmond - Episode 155
Speaking from the perspective of a non-technologist, Jared Cowley Grimmond, Deputy Director General for Water Resource Management, shares the Department's ongoing digital transformation journey in Queensland. He highlights the importance of getting the foundations right—modernising legacy systems, moving to cloud platforms, and creating online portals—while ensuring services remain accessible for
Insights from a Digital Transformation Advisor - Michelle Simpson - Episode 154
In this episode, we catch up with Michelle Simpson, Strategic Technology Advisor, Office of Digital Government, Department of Premier and Cabinet WA as she dives into the biggest hurdles agencies are facing right now—and more importantly, how to tackle them head-on. From the power of transparency and smarter vendor management, to making the most of the Assurance Review and other Digital Government
Building the Shield: AI and Automation in Public Sector Transformation - Dan Wilkens - Episode 153
Join Amanda Garcia and Dan Wilkins, CISO for the Arizona Department of Economic Security, as they explore the intersection of AI, automation, and collaboration in public sector cybersecurity. Dan shares practical strategies for building a proactive defense, leveraging emerging tech, and fostering the partnerships essential for resilience in an evolving threat landscape. Dan Wilkens, Chief Inform
AI Unlocked: From Data to Government Insights - Dony Alex - Episode 152
In this episode, Dony Alex, Director of the Data Centre of Excellence with the Government of Alberta, discusses how sustainable data platforms and federated ecosystems can transform siloed information into AI-ready products. He explores the challenges of data governance, the balance between innovation and responsible controls, and how generative AI is democratizing access to insights. Tune in to d
Cyber-resilience, fostering skills development and supporting diversity - Stephen Woods - Episode 151
In this episode, Stephen Woods from the WA Department of Justice explores why cyber resilience is essential for protecting sensitive public data and services. He breaks resilience into four stages—anticipate, withstand, recover, and adapt—emphasising that cyberattacks are inevitable, but preparation and testing make the difference. From regional connectivity challenges to incident simulations like
Revolutionizing Citizen Engagement: Digital Tools and Trust in Government - Jocelyn Baker - Episode 150
In this episode of Public Sector Podcast, we chat with Jocelyn, the Deputy Minister for Environment and Climate Change in Manitoba, about the transformative role digital tools are playing in reshaping government-citizen relationships. From co-creation of policies to fostering two-way communication, Jocelyn shares how Manitoba is using digital platforms like Engage EMB to create more inclusive, tra
Advancing Digital Government in Virginia: AI, Data Integration, and Tools for Enhanced Citizen Services - Robert (Bob) Osmond - Episode 149
Virginia is leading the charge in digital transformation—leveraging AI and emerging technologies to streamline government operations, tackle complex data challenges, and improve public service delivery. In this episode, we're joined by Robert (Bob) Osmond, Commonwealth Chief Information Officer, Virginia IT Agency whoexplores how the state is using innovation to create more efficient, transparent,
Trends in Cybercrime with NSW Police - Matthew Craft - Episode 148
In this episode, Matthew Craft, Detective Superintendent, NSW Police Force examines the evolving landscape of cybercrime in 2025—what's changed, what's emerging, and what organisations need to know to stay ahead. From rising threat trends to response readiness, the discussion also highlights the importance of national and international cooperation in combating cyber threats. Whether you're in gov
Data Discipline Is The Foundation of Government Innovation - Josh Wagner - Episode 147
In this episode of Public Sector Podcast, we are joined by Josh Wagner, Arizona's State Chief Data and Analytics Officer, as Arizona drives forward with data modernization, AI governance and cross agency innovation. Josh will dive into the strategies shaping Arizona's data-driven future and the lessons other jurisdictions can take from their journey. This includes connecting the dots on how data i
From Legacy Systems to AI Enabled Technology | Victorian Public Sector's Technology Transformation Journey - Emily Mailes - Episode 146
In this episode, Emily Mailes, Chief eHealth Strategy Officer at the Victorian Department of Health, joins us for a fireside chat on navigating digital transformation in healthcare. She shares how Victoria is tackling outdated systems, adopting AI, and reshaping its digital strategy to improve patient care and system efficiency. From managing billion-dollar IT backlogs to building interoperable p
Conversations with City CIOs & CITOs - Jan Bradley & Scot Barker - Episode 145
In this episode, we sit down with two visionary leaders driving innovation in municipal government: Jan Bradley, Chief Information Technology Officer (CITO) of Calgary, and Scot Barker, Chief Innovation Officer (CINO) of Burlington, Vermont. From AI adoption and cybersecurity to legacy system modernization and equitable digital access, they share candid insights on: Balancing innovation with risk
How to be Agile in Government Procurement: The Test and Buy Innovation - Mark Lenzner - Episode 144
This episode features Mark Lenzner, Executive Director, ICT / Digital Sourcing, Digital.NSW, NSW Department of Customer Service, who explores how the Test and Buy Innovation model is transforming public sector procurement. Learn how agencies can adopt more agile, outcome-focused approaches to tackle community challenges—by prioritising the problem rather than prescribing the solution. From foster
Customer-Obsessed Cyber Security - Joshua McKenzie - Epsode 143
In this episode, we hear from Joshua McKenzie, Manager, Cyber Governance, Risk and Assurance, Parliament of NSW who explores how government service providers can strike the right balance between compliance, cost-effectiveness, and risk management—without compromising on safety or service delivery. Listeners will gain insights into prioritising tasks through a people-centric lens, applying threat-b
OPOR by Design: Building Resilient and Trusted Health Systems - Jamey Martell - Episode 142
In our latest episode, Jamey Martell, Senior Director, One Person One Record, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Dr. Julie Maranda, Chief Medical Information Officer, One Person One Record, Nova Scotia Health Authority highlight that as healthcare systems go digital, trust and security must be built in from the start. Our healthcare leaders from Nova Scotia Health and its OPOR (One Person One Record) s
Practical Application of AI - How Do You Get the Right AI Tools, What Do These Look Like in Action, And How Do You Embed Them to Serve? - Nicholas Davis - Episode 141
This episode, Nicholas Davis, Co-Director, UTS Human Technology Institute takes listeners on a deep dive into the transformative world of Artificial Intelligence and the essential guardrails needed to ensure its safe, ethical, and effective application. Drawing on global best practices, emerging domestic trends, and state-level strategies, the conversation explores how NSW and the broader Australi
The Future of Ontario: Digital Twins, Secure ID, and Citizen-Centric Innovation - Infrastructure Ontario - Episode 140
The future of government is being rewritten—and it's digital. In this insightful episode, we sit down with Aneesh Joshi and Omar Shabbir from Infrastructure Ontario (IO) to explore how cutting-edge technologies like Digital ID systems, AI, and Digital Twins are revolutionizing public services. From eliminating bureaucratic silos to creating seamless, citizen-centric experiences, Aneesh (Technology
Diversity in Cyber Security: Insights on the retention of women in the workplace - Jacqui Loustau - Episode 139
This thought-provoking episode invites Jacqui Loustau, AWSN Executive Director, Australian Women in Security Network, Professor Matthew Warren, Director of the RMIT Centre of Cyber Security Research and Innovation, RMIT who tackle the pressing issue of diversity in Australia's cybersecurity sector, featuring Jacqui Loustau and Professor Matthew Warren. They discuss the current under-representation
Space - The Final Frontier: A Case Study on Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital - Stewart Wong - Episode 138
In this engaging episode, we hear from Stewart Wong, Vice President of Strategy, Sustainability and Communications, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, as he takes us on a creative and candid journey through one of the hospital's most ambitious challenges: space optimisation during rapid growth. Blending Star Trek metaphors with real-world strategy, Stewart shares how Holland Bloorview
Teams, Talent and Diversity | How to Recruit, Retain and Build Top Teams - Natalie Bekis - Episode 137
In our latest episode, Natalie Bekis, Assistant Secretary Health Workforce Planning and Strategies Branch, Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, Fiona Notley, Chief Operating Officer, and Vice President, RMIT delve into the pressing issue of the technology skills shortage in Victoria, unpacking the challenges and opportunities that come with building a resilient, future-ready w
Shared Ambitions, Different Roads: Lessons from Nova Scotia's Integrated Approach to Modernizing Healthcare - Krista Jangaard - Episode 136
This episode features Dr. Krista Jangaard, President and CEO of IWK Health Centre in Nova Scotia, sharing how her organisation is navigating one of the most ambitious healthcare transformations in the province's history. Dr. Jangaard reflects on what it means to modernise health systems in a time of volatility and opportunity—from integrating digital tools like "YourHealthNS" and a provincial heal
Determining & Detailing Your 2025 Strategic Plan - Episode 135
In this panel discussion, leaders from Colorado public sector sit down together and discuss what their priorities are in 2025 and beyond, and how to ensure they are successful. Heather Weir, Senior Director of Strategy, Performance and Admin Office, Colorado Governor's Office of Information Technology Andrea Day, Senior Information Technology Director, Customer Office, Colorado Governor's Office
Moving Forward - An Update on NextGen Pay and HR for the Government of Canada - Episode 134
In this candid and compelling episode, Alex Benay and Karen Figuerola share an unfiltered look at the cultural and systemic issues behind Canada's HR and pay challenges—and the bold transformation underway to fix them. From the $7 billion Phoenix failure to the rollout of Dayforce, Alex explains why fixing the tech alone isn't enough. True change, he argues, starts with shifting behaviours, embrac
Journey from E-Government to Digital Government and Next Steps - Barry Lowry - Episode 133
In this episode of Public Sector Podcast, Ireland's Government Chief Information Officer shares the country's journey from traditional e-government to a bold, citizen-centred digital transformation. With a focus on inclusion, trust, and user-first design, Ireland is rethinking how government services are delivered—one life event at a time. Discover how Ireland is building shared infrastructure, ad
Ohio's Local Government: Challenges and Opportunities in Innovation and Technology - Kimberly Roy Wilson - Episode 132
Join us in this insightful podcast as we sit down with Kimberly Roy Wilson, Commissioner, Information Technology & Services Division, City of Cleveland, to explore Ohio local government's challenges and opportunities in innovation and technology. Kimberly Roy Wilson Commissioner, Information Technology & Services Division, City of Cleveland For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.c
AI and Data Analytics: Shaping the Future of Public Services - Ima Okonny - Episode 131
In this episode, Ima Okonny, Chief Data Officer, Assistant Deputy Minister, Employment and Social Development Canada shares how one of Canada's largest federal departments is using data, AI, and innovation to deliver more inclusive and responsive public services. The conversation explores the importance of building a strong data foundation, developing ethical and transparent AI practices, and ensu
Maximizing the Impact of Technology, Data, and AI Applications - Sophia Mohr - Episode 130
Join us in this insightful podcast as we sit down with Sophia Mohr, Chief Innovation and Technology Officer, Central Ohio Transit Authority, to explore how to maximize the impact of technology, data and AI applications in public sector. Sophia Mohr, Chief Innovation and Technology Officer, Central Ohio Transit Authority For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co
The 2025 Cyber Security Landscape in SA: Navigating the Year Ahead - Darren Van Sommeren - Episode 129
In this episode, Darren Van Sommeren discusses the future of cybersecurity in South Australia heading into 2025. He outlines the rise in sophisticated cyber threats, driven by geopolitical instability, and calls for collaboration over fear as the key to resilience. Darren also unpacks how AI is reshaping the threat landscape, from deepfakes to phishing, and highlights the need for proactive defenc
Advancing SA's Defence Capabilities: Fostering a Vibrant Defence and Space Research and Innovation Ecosystem - Matt Opie - Episode 128
In this episode, we join Matt Opie in a deep dive into the future of defence innovation and workforce development in South Australia. This episode explores key defence and space sector priorities for 2025 and beyond, strategies to build a skilled workforce pipeline, and how to accelerate innovation within SA's defence ecosystem. Matt also discusses the power of collaboration between industry, gove
'Future Health': Driving Service Excellence and Intuitive Interactions to Build Trust and Deliver the Next Generation of Health Care - Susan Pearce - Episode 127
Join Susan Pearce as she explores the future of personalised, digitally enabled healthcare in New South Wales, unpacking key successes and priorities for 2025. In this episode, she discusses how value-based care is transforming patient outcomes, the importance of integrating digital tools with human connection, and how collaboration and partnerships are driving innovation across the healthcare sec
Workforce Challenges in Canadian Healthcare - Danielle Sanagan - Episode 126
In this episode, Danielle from Trillium Health Partners discusses strategies for addressing workforce challenges in Canadian healthcare. She shares insights on optimizing staffing models through flexible work arrangements and task delegation, while balancing cost control and preventing burnout. Danielle highlights the importance of training and upskilling initiatives, which have improved staff ret
Adopting Zero Trust Strategies to Strengthen Cybersecurity - Jennifer Franks - Episode 125
In this episode Jennifer Franks reveals how Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) is revolutionising cybersecurity in government. Unlike traditional security models, ZTA eliminates implicit trust by enforcing continuous verification, strict identity authentication, and least privilege access, ensuring robust protection against unauthorised access and data breaches. The discussion highlights critical gaps
What's Next for Georgia's Information Technology? - Nikhil J Deshpande - Episode 124
In this episode of Public Sector Podcast, we explore how AI is transforming digital government services. The Georgia Technology Authority is leading the way by developing an AI governance framework that focuses on responsible and ethical AI adoption. Key initiatives include workforce training, operational efficiencies powered by AI, and strategic partnerships to ensure transparent and equitable im
Driving Innovation: Uruguay Path to Digital Transformation - Herbert Paguas - Episode 123
Herbert Paguas explores how Uruguay's government has used digital technology to improve public services and what others can learn from their approach. He looks at the challenges they faced during their digital transformation, how they tackled them, and the impact on economic growth, social inclusion, and citizen engagement. Uruguay's journey offers valuable insights into building a more connected
Government Procurement Innovations - Angela Shell - Episode 122
Here, Angela Shell dives into ways to make procurement more efficient, sustainable, and inclusive. She covers how technology is improving transparency, strategies for choosing eco-friendly products, and ways to get the most value from group purchasing agreements. Angela also looks at how to create more opportunities for diverse suppliers, like small and minority-owned businesses, and explores inno
Trust through listening: learn about how the NSW Government is using data and insights to make services easier to access, more effective and more trusted by the community - James Bates - Episode 121
Join James Bates as he delves into the best ways to reach citizens and earn their trust in public services - through listening and acting on feedback. James walks through the huge improvements NSW government has made in collecting data and using it successfully to learn about its citizens, comparing the process from pre to post-pandemic arenas and how current behavioural data sets prove that when
Quality & Speed - Bias for Action - Prashant Bakshi - Episode 120
Every project, big or small, comes with the risk of not meeting its goals in terms of value, cost, or timing. Join Prashant Bakshi as he shares insights on finding the right balance between quality and speed. Customers often prefer a product that's "good enough" if it's delivered on time, but many projects miss this expectation by over-focusing on quality. On the flip side, some projects are compl
