Hosted by IPAA National President Andrew Metcalfe, AO FIPAA, this episode of Work with Purpose explores how the public sector might manage an increasingly complex global public sector environment, while maintaining a spirit of humility and empathy in serving the community.

Public administration on a global scale is facing challenges from growing hostility influenced by misinformation and political rhetoric, which is impacting public servants’ morale and the perception of government institutions.

In this discussion, Crawford School of Public Policy Director Janine O’Flynn reflects on her address to the 2025 American Society of Public Administration Conference which highlighted these issues alongside efforts to build a positive narrative for public service and the integration of technology like AI in governance.

This podcast delves into the long-running global debate on the value of public service – a conversation that continues to evolve across different national contexts.

Key tips:

1. Lead with empathy – recognise the emotional toll of uncertainty and trauma on public sector employees. Whether you're a leader or a colleague, approach conversations and decisions with compassion and understanding.
2. Champion positivity – actively highlight the value and impact of public sector work. Sharing success stories and meaningful contributions helps counteract public hostility and rebuild trust.
3. Engage thoughtfully with AI – understand that trust in artificial intelligence depends on more than just technology; it requires ethical oversight, sound judgement, and high-quality data. Advocate for systems that challenge, rather than replicate, existing biases.

Show notes:

• Utrecht University project on Successful Public Governance | Utrecht University, Netherlands
• Speech to the American Society for Public Administration | Crawford School of Public Policy
• Pathways to Positive Public Administration: An International Perspective | Open source book via Elgar Online
• Has the time arrived for Positive Public Administration | The Mandarin
• Automated Assistance in Administrative Decision Making [2004] | Administrative Review Council Reports
• 2025 American Society of Public Administration Conference | ASPANet

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How can public sector professionals keep their skills sharp without committing to years of study? Microcredentials may be the answer.

In this episode of Work with Purpose, host David Pembroke speaks with Professor Deborah Blackman from UNSW Canberra and Kristen Risby from the Australian Public Service Commission about how microcredentials are transforming learning in the public sector.

Explore the co-design process behind new postgraduate offerings as our speakers share lessons from recent pilot programs and highlight how these short, credit-bearing courses are helping public sector professionals build relevant skills without committing to long-form study.

Key tips

1. Choose microcredentials that offer credit – look for courses that meet university standards and contribute to formal qualifications. These are stackable and recognised across institutions.
2. Embed learning into your workplace – apply course content directly to your current role through reflective assessments and practical tasks that reinforce learning outcomes.
3. For those wanting to create a course, co-design with practitioners for relevance – when developing or selecting a course, involve subject matter experts and end users to ensure the content is job-ready and aligned with sector.

Show notes

• Express your interest or find out more about the APS Academy microcredentials | APSC website
• Explore other learning opportunities with the APS Academy learning | APS Academy
• Subscribe to hear the latest news, events and offerings from the APS Academy | APS Academy

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In this landmark episode of Work with Purpose, host David Pembroke sits down with Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Australia’s 28th Governor-General, for a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation recorded at Government House.

Marking one year and one day since her appointment, the Governor-General reflects on her journey from suburban Canberra to one of the nation’s highest offices. She shares insights into her upbringing, career, and the values that guide her leadership – care, kindness, and respect.

Listeners will gain a rare glimpse into the evolving role of civic institutions, the importance of inclusive public service, and the power of storytelling in shaping national identity. From her early volunteerism to her work in law, sport, climate, and social justice, the Governor-General’s story is one of curiosity, courage, and commitment to community.

In this episode, you’ll hear about her path to Governor-General, why care, kindness, and respect are central to her vision for modern leadership and public service, and how her diverse career shaped a holistic view of Australia’s institutions and the people who power them.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who cares about Australia’s future, the role of public service, and the values that bind us together.

Key tips

• Champion civics education. Help build a more informed and engaged society by promoting understanding of Australia’s democratic systems and institutions
• Collaborate across sectors. Break down silos between public, private, and community sectors to foster innovation and shared purpose
• Lead with compassion. Embed care and kindness into everyday decision-making – whether in policy, leadership, or community engagement.

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