Have you ever wondered how political leaders decide which issues make it to the top of the agenda?

In this episode of Work with Purpose, host David Pembroke speaks with Professor Liam Smith and Dr Connor Wynn from Behaviour Works Australia to explore how politicians make high-stakes decisions under pressure and what the public sector can learn from the process.

Drawing on extensive behavioural research, Smith and Wynn reveal how political leaders rely on heuristics, or mental shortcuts, to navigate complexity, limited time and competing demands. They explain how community sentiment, emotion, political capital and timing influence which policies rise to prominence, and how these forces shape outcomes across government.

Listeners will learn how understanding the psychology of decision making can help them engage more effectively with ministers, anticipate shifting priorities and design advice that resonates. This is an engaging conversation about influence, timing and the human side of leadership in government, offering practical guidance for anyone working in or alongside the Australian Public Service.

Key tips:

1. Use the “wait and see” principle. Recognise when an issue is gaining traction and be ready to act when political and community momentum align.
2. Seize the moment. Identify windows of opportunity created by events, media attention or public pressure, and present advice when decision makers are most receptive.
3. Think like your audience. Understand how leaders and communities perceive an issue, and frame advice using real-world perspectives and public sentiment, not just technical evidence.

Show notes:

• Behaviour Works Australia – behavioural science research and case studies: behaviourworksaustralia.org
• How the political elite make decisions - Wynn - 2025 - Australian Journal of Public Administration - Wiley Online Library

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What does it really take to lead people well in a world of constant change? In this episode of Work with Purpose, host David Pembroke sits down with Jacqui Curtis, Chief Operating Officer at the ATO and Head of the APS HR Profession, and Eliza Kirkby, Managing Director at Hays, to explore how human resources in the Australian Public Service is being redefined.

From the power of trust and genuine connection to the growing impact of AI and technology, Curtis and Kirkby share honest insights about what it means to be a people-focused leader today. They reveal how curiosity, courage and empathy can build stronger teams, shape culture and help leaders navigate complexity with confidence.

Listeners will also hear how HR professionals are helping the APS evolve by embracing innovation, driving inclusion and belonging, and preparing for the workforce of the future. It’s an inspiring conversation about keeping people at the heart of transformation and leading with purpose when it matters most.

Key tips

1. Lead with curiosity and connection. Build trust through open communication, empathy and genuine listening. Be straightforward, approachable and real.
2. Use technology wisely. Let AI and digital tools enhance people’s work rather than replace it.
3. Create a sense of belonging. Inclusion and psychological safety are essential for high-performing teams.
4. Stay open and ask for help. Strong leaders grow through curiosity and collaboration, not by having all the answers.

Show notes

• Successful Public Governance | Utrecht University
• Speech to the American Society for Public Administration | Crawford School of Public Policy
• Pathways to Positive Public Administration An International Perspective | Book
• Has the time arrived for Positive Public Administration | The Mandarin

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Work with Purpose, host David Pembroke speaks with Jamie Lowe, the Merit Protection Commissioner for the Australian Public Service and the Parliamentary Service, about how fairness, transparency and integrity are upheld across the APS.

Described as the Commonwealth’s “workplace umpire,” Jamie and her office review promotion decisions, Code of Conduct inquiries and other workplace matters to make sure they’re not only lawful, but fair and correct. She explains how her team provides impartial review, carefully manages conflicts of interest, and works with agencies to lift capability and strengthen decision-making.

Jamie also shares her career journey as a long-serving public servant, the lessons the APS can take from Robodebt, and why procedural fairness is essential in maintaining trust and confidence across the APS.

Key tips:

1. Document decisions clearly – thorough records ensure fairness and allow meaningful feedback in recruitment and promotions.
2. Empower staff through reviews: Code of Conduct processes give people the confidence to raise concerns and strengthen workplace culture.
3. Own-motion audits, shared case studies and communities of practice improve decision-making and integrity across the APS.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.