Explore every episode of the podcast Public Sector Podcast

Courts have not historically been innovators of the public service, however COVID became impetus to forgo legacy paper-based records in favor of digitised data governance. Hear from Richard Hodge, the Director of Innovation and Service Experience at the Magistrates Court of Victoria, on how this transformation has affected both performance and service levels. From catering to a diverse range of legal services to meeting the complex justice-related needs of Melbourne's culturally rich meltingpot, this is a case study in designing an authentically accessible, inclusive and equitable, human-centered user-experience for public servicing. 

Richard Hodge, Director, Innovation & Service Experience, Magistrates' Court of Victoria

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

 

How can organizations build an agile, diverse workforce in the age of AI and automation? This episode tackles that pressing question with Shakira Naraine, Chief People Officer of the Toronto Transit Commission.

Shakira delves into practical strategies for implementing successful remote work policies, leveraging AI to enhance workforce capabilities, and fostering genuine inclusivity in government organizations. She shares real-world examples from the TTC's initiatives, including their innovative mentorship program and AI-assisted recruitment process.
Tune in to discover how modern leaders are balancing technological advancement with human-centered policies to create adaptable, equitable workplaces.

Shakira Naraine, Chief People Officer,
Toronto Transit Commission

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

The Victorian Government of Australia prides itself on building a vibrant cyber economy to, not only deliver safe and reliable government services, but to make Victoria a cyber safe place to live, learn and work.

To achieve this cross-sector partnership with education providers, government entities and private tech-sector operators is a crucial building block.

David Latina, discusses how Victoria is working towards their mission of being a global cyber security powerhouse in this week's episode of the Public Sector Podcast.

David Latina, Deputy Secretary, Industry & Innovation Group, Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry & Regions

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

In a world of perpetual change, navigating digital transformation parallels the phases of societal evolution. From galvanizing momentum to the sobering reality of implementation, each stage demands strategic adaptation. Yet, sustaining innovation requires more than initial enthusiasm; it necessitates a shift in mindset towards everyday creativity.

Daphnée Nostrome, Director, Channel Strategy at the Canadian Digital Service discusses the Digital Stress Scale, and how leaders must foster divergent thinking, recognising that innovation thrives in collaboration, not isolation in this week's episode.

Daphnée Nostrome, Director, Channel Strategy, Canadian Digital Service

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

In the last 12 months Artificial Intelligence has gone from a topic relegated to tech functions to a focus of many company leaders. In fact AI, and specifically Gen AI (yes ChatGPT, we're talking about you) has become a dinner table conversation topic for people from all walks of life.

With the jump from Science Fiction films to the boardroom, knowing how to strategically, ethically and responsibly experiment with AI tools to pilot initiatives is crucial. Michael Rowell and Fawad Abro of the Australian Taxation Office discuss practical steps to build an AI-ready culture.

Michael Rowell, Deputy Commissioner, Data, Integration & Service Management & Fawad Abro, Assistant Commissioner, Enterprise Data & Analytics, Australian Taxation Office

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Globally 48% of public sector professionals agree that talent attraction and retention is their top challenge. While government can rarely compete with private sector peers monetarily, government offers its own unique value proposition - namely by appealing to talent seeking a greater sense of purpose and belonging.

By harnessing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives and by fostering environments that prioritising well-being, government stands to attract a new generation of talent eager to contribute meaningfully. Achieving DE&I though can't be done in isolation and is definitely not a 'HR Initiative.' Tracy Jones-Grant, Managing Director, Diversity & Inclusion at Halifax Regional Municipality chats to us about how to make equity, diversity and inclusion a part of your organisational transformation.

Tracy Jones-Grant, Managing Director, Diversity & Inclusion, Halifax Regional Municipality

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

Most citizens are excited by the prospect of greater digital government services and the convenience, speed and ease of self-serve platforms. However questions around government's ability to keep data safe and to use technology, like AI, in ethical ways threaten progress.

How then can government build and maintain citizen confidence as we move towards automation and self service? Daniel Ramos, GM Digital Identity at the ACCC discusses the five elements of success in this week's Public Sector Podcast.

Daniel Ramos, General Manager, Digital Identity, ACCC

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

Companies throughout the world have prioritised Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in recent years, aiming to make a good impact on society and the environment. B Corp accreditation, a globally recognised benchmark for organisations that prioritise both purpose and profit, is one effective approach to demonstrate a commitment to these principles.

Recently Public Sector Network, or PSN, was again recertified as a B Corp so we sat down with the business' Global Head of People and Purpose, Gemma Mills to chat all things social responsibility, living and practicing the B Corp ethos and how PSN is working to reduce waste in the events industry - the second biggest waste production industry ourside of construction.

Gemma Mills, Global Head of People & Purpose, Public Sector Network

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

Community safety is the cornerstone of social cohesion, fostering trust and unity among residents. When people feel secure in their environment, they are more likely to engage positively with one another, leading to stronger bonds and collaborative efforts that enhance overall well-being, resilience, and shared prosperity within the community.

In this week's epsidoe of the Public Sector Podcast Mayor Mike Savage discusses the importance of developing specific community safety units - outside of emergency service units - and the outcomes of incorporating a Municipality-wide public safety strategy on crime rates.

Mayor Mike Savage, Halifax Regional Municipality.

 

Markus shares the nine focus point on how to build a future ready public sector of leadership and service-focused excellence: Visionary leadership, citizen-centric approach, talent acquisition and development, technological innovation, collaborative partnerships, agility and flexibility, accountability and transparency, diversity inclusion, and performance measurement and improvement.

Markus Chambers, Deputy Mayor, City of Winnipeg & Chair of Innovation and Economic Development and Chair Winnipeg Police Board City Councillor, City of Winnipeg.

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

Over the next ten years, automation is expected to affect half of Canadians' jobs. In this episode, Simone Atungo, Assistant Deputy Minister of Workforce Policy and Innovation Division at the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development, explores the profound impact of automation on the future of work. Simone discusses how the adoption of automation is transforming workplaces and changing the skills required for workers, highlighting the need for workers to upgrade their skills or acquire new ones to adapt to these changes.

Tune in to learn about the strategies and actions being taken by Ontario's Ministry of Labour to ensure a smooth transition for both employers and employees in navigating this digital transformation.

Simone Atungo, Assistant Deputy Minister of Workforce Policy and Innovation Division (Employment), Ontario Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Compared to Australia and other OECD countries, the state of Victoria has the highest access to afterhours care, is comparably one of the top three in care-coordination, one of the highest in follow-up care and lowest in costs. With the aim of becoming the best in the world, eHealth was established in 2024 with a vision to drive excellence in analytics and digital tech to deliver world-class healthcare. Tune in for a snapshot from Lance Emerson, Deputy Secretary, eHealth, Victoria Department of Health into how the health sector is using advanced analytics, AI, digital twins and machine learning to transform Victoria and beyond.

Lance Emerson, Deputy Secretary, eHealth, Victoria Department of Health.

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

Innovation can pose a lot of challenges to the public sector. How can state government innovate at the pace of industry? When new technologies can pose a risk as much as an opportunity, how can government respond with innovation in risk-adverse environments? What does it mean to lead innovation strategies from the ground-up?   In four short stories from across NSW, hear how leadership is working collaboratively across government, responding to the changing expectations of customers and taking innovative solutions from the frontline to scale organisation-wide.   Andrew George, Chief Executive Officer, WaterNSW Megan Stiffler, Deputy Commissioner, Fire & Rescue NSW John Cleland, Chief Executive Officer, Essential Energy Alexandra Geddes, Executive Director, Programs & Innovation, NSW Environment Protection Authority.   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

In recent research conducted by the Office of Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC), 89% of Australians wanted Government to pass more legislation that protects their personal information. In this modern data economy, Carly Kind, Privacy Commissioner with OAIC likens our daily interactions with online privacy allowances as "death by a thousand cuts".    In her keynote session at Innovate Australia Carly outlines how modern, technologically neutral, robust regulatory protections alongside a new Digital Identity system are key to ensuring business and government can safely innovate and strengthen public trust.   For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co  

Workforce planning is a massive juggling act at any time. But throw into the mix a dispersed workforce of thousands that needs to scale up and down swiftly and literal life or death situations and the challenge seems neigh on impossible.

Fire & Rescue NSW have taken steps to streamline and optimise their workforce planning initiatives in recent years in a bid to best manage the task. We chat to Jeremy Fewtrell, Commissioner with Fire and Rescue NSW to learn how the power of leadership, Diversity and Equity initiatives, and a navigation of workplace culture is helping to ensure the agency is ready for - literally - anything.

Jeremy Fewtrell, Commissioner with Fire and Rescue NSW

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

In an era fuelled by the promise of AI, the UK public sector stands at the cusp of transformation. Embracing the hype surrounding AI, government leaders navigate the delicate balance between innovation and risk. While the potential benefits are tantalising, the path forward requires a nuanced approach, considering factors like organisational culture, digital maturity, and the ever-present spectre of unintended consequences.

Mike Hill, Chief Data & Information Officer with the UK Cabinet Office discusses how the UK government aims to unlock AI's full potential to revolutionise public services and citizen outcomes.

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

The Office of Data and Innovation (ODI) in California is spearheading initiatives to enhance data usability and democratization.

Through accelerators like the Data Science Accelerator and Modern Data Stack Accelerator, ODI facilitates the adoption of data science and modern tools statewide. By offering tailored solutions and fostering collaboration, ensures that departments leverage data effectively, leading to informed decision-making and improved services for Californians.

Kim Hicks and Jason Lally deep dive, plus share use cases in housing and water supply shortages in this weeks episode of the Public Sector Podcast.

Kimberly Hicks, Deputy Director, Advanced Analytics & Evaluation, California Office of Data and Innovation Jason Lally, Deputy Director, Data Services and Engineering, California Office of Data and Innovation.

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

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, government, academia, and defence to drive technological advancements and strengthen Australia's defence capabilities. Tune in to gain insights on how South Australia is positioning itself as a leader in defence innovation and capability development.

Matt Opie, CEO, Defence SA

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

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 sector. Susan shares insights on striking the right balance between digitisation, self-service, and maintaining the human touch, ensuring that technology enhances rather than replaces meaningful patient care. Tune in to discover how NSW Health is reshaping healthcare delivery to be more connected, efficient, and patient-focused.

Susan Pearce, Secretary, NSW Health

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In this Government Keynote session, we hear insights from Raj Thuppal, Executive Vice-President, Shared Services Canada on his department's new strategic direction to accelerate progress in areas of digital services, connectivity, hosting and cyber security.

Our government leader describes how to collaborate with partners and clients for a world-class enterprise-wide government IT and digital landscape and he discusses how he and his team have been improving digital service delivery through Canada's Digital Ambition.

Raj Thuppal, Executive Vice-President, Shared Services Canada

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

In a recent discussion led by Charlie Hamer, co-founder of the Public Sector Network, he converses with Pete Saunders, a facilitator renowned for his expertise in customer journey mapping and service blueprinting. Their dialogue illuminates the importance of enhancing public service sector service delivery.

Pete Saunders , Consultant, Pete Saunders Consulting

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

In a vibrant discussion led by Charlie Hamer, co-founder of the Public Sector Network, he converses with Mustafa Ghulam, a facilitator renowned for his expertise in change management and digital transformation. Their dialogue illuminates the importance of adaptable leadership in the ever-evolving landscape of the public sector. 

Mustafa Ghulam, Transformation and Process Specialist

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

The Employment Development Department serves millions of Californians through dedicated programs and services like unemployment and disability benefits, Paid Family Leave, workforce services and more. They've been on a long-term transformation project to upgrade their IT infrastructure.  Ron Hughes, the Deputy Director for EDDNext, has three decades in IT leadership with a specific focus on large-scale digital transformation projects.  He'll be sharing what a 5 year IT modernisation project looks like in just 15 minutes. 

Ron Hughes the Deputy Director for EDDNext

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

Building a successful business case is difficult for a number of reasons. It's important to craft a narrative that appeals to decision-makers, capturing a variety of user-benefits often involves extensive collaboration, and the project has to align with the overarching objectives of the organisation. In this episode, Stuart Watt, CIO of the Department of Primary Industries and Trade shares how he built the business case for microservices in South Australian government.

Stuart Watt, CIO, Department of Primary Industries and Regions SA

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

In a dynamic conversation, co-founder of Public Sector Network, Charlie Hamer engaged with Blue Chameleon Corporate Consultant, Nicky Bull, who illuminated the evolving landscape of data skills necessary for effective reporting and analysis.

Nicky Bull, Corporate Consultant, Blue Chameleon

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

In a world where effective leadership can shape the future, Charlie Hamer, co-founder of the Public Sector Network, recently engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with leadership expert Malcolm Dawes. Their discussion delved into the essence of leadership in the public sector, highlighting skills that go beyond mere management.

Malcolm Dawes, Managing Director, dta WORLDWIDE.

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

In an insightful interview with Charlie Hamer, co-founder of the Public Sector Network, design research leader Carmine Mastrantone discusses actionable methods for creating citizen-centric solutions that can greatly enhance service delivery.

Carmine Mastrantone, Design research Leader & Mentor.

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

Hear from Virginia senior data leaders on how organizations can drive innovation and decision-making, enhance efficiency, protect data privacy, and foster a data-driven culture by synergizing data and technology through effective integration strategies and promoting data literacy.

 

Chris Burroughs, Director Data Protection and Governance, Commonwealth of Virginia, Office of the Secretary of Administration, Office of Data Governance and Analytics

Ravi Padma, Chief Technology Officer, Virginia Department of Veterans Services

Alex DerHovhannessian, Senior Vice President, Voyatek

Moderator: Bill Greeves, Industry Advisor for State and Local Government, SAP

 

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

Cyber security is a highly regulated, complex mission. Collaboration among global alliances is an opportunity for Australia to learn from wrong-turns and become a fast-follower. Tune in to this week's episode where Helge Janicke, the Deputy CEO and Research Director for the Cyber Security Cooperative Research Centre, shares how distinct types of collaboration enables both operational updates and strategic policy alignment as well as how to keep up to date with the rapid changes in technology.

Helge Janicke, Deputy CEO/Research Director, Cyber Security Cooperative Research Centre.

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

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 retention and patient care, and calls for broader support for professional development.

She also explores how Trillium leverages technology, like automation and AI, to reduce administrative burdens and enhance efficiency. Addressing the skilled worker shortage, Dannielle emphasizes collaboration between healthcare providers, educational institutions, and government agencies for sustainable solutions.

Looking ahead, she shares trends in workforce management and offers advice for HR leaders navigating labor cost and staffing challenges. A valuable listen for healthcare professionals seeking innovative solutions.

Danielle Sanagan
Chief Human Resources Officer/VP People Servces, Trillium Health Parnters

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

 

Over 1 million Queenslanders don't have access to connectivity either through a lack of resources or education. Digital inclusion has played a critical role in improving Queensland's development and economic outcomes. Tune in to this week's episode where Chris McLaren, the Queensland Government Chief Customer and Digital Officer delivers a case study in inclusive growth that benefits all citizens - a philosophy for government servicing that is paving the way government is responding to the state's needs, including a world-first first-nations digital services program.

Chris McLaren, Queensland Government Chief Customer and Digital Officer

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In this panel, three Manitoba public sector executives discussed the current state of digital transformation in Manitoba's public sector. They also highlighted success stories involving AI and Machine Learning, Blockchain, and IoT, etc. The panel also examined the key tech trends shaping the public sector, focusing on the opportunities these technologies present and the challenges faced in their adoption.

Jeremy Read, CEO, The University of Winnipeg
Beverlie Stuart, Vice President, Business and Organizational Development, Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology
Diane Burelle, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Coordinator, City of Winnipeg.

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

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 in inventory and access management faced by federal agencies and emphasises the need for continuous monitoring and cataloging of data and network assets. We also examine how ZTA is an ongoing security process, requiring a phased implementation approach and continuous security awareness training to adapt to emerging cyber threats. Tune in to learn how Zero Trust is transforming cybersecurity into a proactive and resilient defence model for the public sector.

Jennifer Franks, Director Center for Enhanced  Cybersecurity, GAO

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

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 implementation. As AI becomes the next major experience layer in public services, this episode examines how governments can prepare for an AI-driven future by investing in AI literacy, establishing ethical guardrails, and maintaining human oversight in decision-making.

Nikhil J Deshpande, Chief Digital & AI Officer, Office of Digital Services & Solutions, Georgia Technology Authority, State of Georgia

 

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

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 and efficient digital society.

Herbert Paguas
Executive Director, National Agency for e-Government and Information Society (AGESIC)- Uruguay

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

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 innovative bidding methods, such as reverse auctions, to streamline procurement.

Angela Shell, Chief Procurement Officer, Department of General Services (DGS)

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

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 the government shows that it is listening and doing what it says its going to do, creates trust. He highlights with examples from the NSW government, the importance of inclusion in building trust in citizens and the key to great service design and delivery.

James Bates, Executive Director Customer, Data and Insights | Chief Data Officer, Department of Customer Service.

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

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 completed within budget and schedule but still fail to meet customer needs. Prashant will discuss his experiences leading projects where balancing quality, cost, and timeliness was crucial, while always keeping the end goal in focus.

Prashant Bakshi, Chief Customer Officer, New Zealand Qualifications Authority

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

 

 

In this interview, Katie Alexander from Australian Psychological Services and Charlie Hamer, co-founder of Public Sector Network, discuss how public sector organisations can create inclusive workplaces for neurodivergent and psychosocially diverse employees. Learn about the challenges in recruitment, how to avoid biases, and the importance of a strengths-based approach. This video provides practical HR leadership insights to foster an inclusive, diverse workforce in the public sector. Explore strategies for making reasonable adjustments and supporting neurodivergent individuals in your team.

Katie Alexander, Organisational Psychologist and Principal Consultant, Australian Psychological Services

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

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 same conversations, organisations can ensure emerging tools are aligned with operational priorities and practical needs — not just technical ambition.

We learn how to strengthen dialogue between technical and business teams, close the gap between capability and delivery, and create solutions that are relevant, usable and widely adopted. Listeners will gain insights into building more effective collaboration models that drive measurable results.

 

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

 

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

 

 

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-term resilience.

Our guests look at practical ways to manage breach response effectively, strengthen privacy and information management, and build a culture that treats data protection as everyone's responsibility. Arilea and Kathy describe lessons from real public sector incidents, how to improve governance and staff readiness, and why transparent communication is critical to maintaining public confidence.

Arilea Sill, Chief Information Access and Privacy Officer, Province of Nova Scotia, Kathy Hartlen, Manager, Privacy Program, Province Nova Scotia

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

 

 

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 responsible and citizen-centered.

Michael Harvey, Information and Privacy Commissioner, Government of British Columbia

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

 

 

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 of connecting these isolated systems to drive smarter, safer, and more effective decision-making.

Hubbard shares how his team is using AI, analytics, and modernization to transform correctional operations, improve efficiency, and support rehabilitation. From predictive insights and automated security systems to mobile access and real-time reporting, he demonstrates how innovation can enhance both safety and opportunity—while reminding us that technology is only as powerful as the people who use it with purpose and integrity.

Sylvester Hubbard III, Director of Enterprise Application Services, Virginia Department of Corrections

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

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 the broader lessons learned—from transparent crisis communication to the irreplaceable role of human connection in an age of AI. As he shares candid insights on leadership, reputation, and resilience, this episode reveals how honesty and collaboration can turn a potential crisis into a defining moment of integrity.

Elliot Stein, A/National Director Corporate Affairs and Communications, St Vincent's Health Australia

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

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, public services, and daily life. With a firm commitment to transparency, ethics, and citizen trust, the country is building a future where innovation and accountability go hand in hand.

Listeners will discover how Estonia's forward-thinking policies, infrastructure, and investments are powering its data economy, driving smarter governance, and setting a global standard for responsible AI adoption. From real-world examples of AI disrupting traditional systems to actionable insights for enhancing competitiveness, this episode offers a roadmap for any organisation looking to harness data and innovation the Estonian way.

Ott Velsberg, Government Chief Data Officer, Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

 

 

 

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. Listeners will hear how organisers implement continuous monitoring to detect and respond to threats in real time, and why success depends on seamless collaboration between local, national, and international cyber teams. It's a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep the Games safe, connected, and running smoothly.

Dr David Tuffley, Senior Lecturer Senior Fellow | Higher Education Academy School of Information & Communication Technology Institute of Integrated & Intelligent Systems (IIIS), Griffith University

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

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 all citizens, not just digital users. Jared emphasises the role of people and focus in making transformation stick: aligning staff, listening to customers, starting small, and learning from both successes and failures. From staff-driven innovations and AI tools for water mapping to lessons learned from other states, his message is clear—digital transformation is as much about culture, collaboration, and governance as it is about technology.

Jarrod Cowley-Grimmond (Deputy Director-General, Water Resource Management, Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers)

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

 

 

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 support, you'll hear practical insights that can turn challenges into opportunities for success.

Michelle Simpson, Strategic Technology Advisor, Office of Digital Government, Department of Premier and Cabinet WA

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

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 Information Security Officer, Arizona Department of Economic Security

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

 

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 discover actionable takeaways for building a collaborative data culture and learn why governments can't afford to fall behind in the race to turn data into impact.

Dony Alex, Director – Data Centre of Excellence, Ministry of Technology and Innovation, Government of Alberta

For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co