In this episode of Work with Purpose, David Pembroke speaks with Dr David Gruen AO Australian Statistician and the inaugural head of the APS Data Profession about the transformative role data plays in the public sector.

The APS Data Profession, launched in 2020, it has grown from a pilot into a thriving community of 13,500 members across Commonwealth, state and territory governments. The profession is about more than technical skills. It’s building a culture of evidence-based decision making, giving leaders confidence in using data, and opening career pathways through graduate streams and cadet programs.

Dr Gruen reflects on how communities of practice, the Data Capability Framework, and initiatives like the Data Awards are shaping a smarter, more collaborative public service ready for challenges like AI and machine learning.

Key takeaways:

1. Why data matters in government – the APS Data profession is building skills and a culture that supports evidence-based decisions.
2. How the data profession is growing - from graduate programs to communities of practice, creating a strong pipeline of talent and collaboration
3. What leaders need to know – why senior executives and decision makers must understand data to better shape outcomes for Australian citizens

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How do public servants make smart decisions when time is short and the stakes are high?

In this episode, host David Pembroke is joined by two leading experts in organisational decision-making: Eric Barends, Managing Director of the Centre for Evidence-Based Management, and Alessandra Capezio, Associate Professor of Organisational Behaviour at the Australian National University. Together, they explore how public servants can make better decisions by combining data, research, stakeholder input, and professional experience.

The conversation delves into the challenges of balancing instinct and evidence in fast-paced environments, the risks of relying on heuristics and cognitive biases, and the importance of cultivating a culture that supports critical thinking and evidence-informed practice.

Key tips:

1. Use multiple sources of evidence to support decision-making. Avoid relying solely on personal experience; combine organisational data, scientific research, stakeholder perspectives, and expert judgement.
2. Challenge cognitive biases. Recognise common pitfalls like solution fixation and authority bias, and ask critical questions to uncover root causes.
3. Build capability and culture. Equip teams with the skills and shared language to critically appraise evidence, even under time pressure, and foster leadership that values evidence-based practice.

Show notes:

• Evidence-based tools and resources | Center for Evidence-Based Management website
• Online course on evidence-based management | CEBMa
• EBDM support, short courses and bespoke offerings | Associate Professor Alessandra Capezio via ANU

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Have you ever written to a politician? What did you hope to achieve?

In this episode of Work with Purpose, guest host Andrew Metcalfe AO FIPAA explores the power of personal correspondence in shaping Australia's political landscape. With around 150,000 letters and emails received annually by the Prime Minister, new research is shedding light on how these messages influence policy and public discourse.

Dr Daniel Casey and Dr Marija Taflaga from the Australian National University unpack the findings of Daniel's research into letters sent to Prime Minister John Howard between 1996 and 2000, and discuss broader insights from the POLEVPOP project on how politicians evaluate public opinion.

From heartfelt pleas and policy critiques to unexpected administrative revelations, this episode reveals how everyday Australians have helped shape the national agenda – one letter at a time.

Key tips:

• Write to policymakers – letters from the public are a vital democratic tool, offering depth and context beyond the ballot box.
• Tell your story. Personal stories – especially those that tug at the heart – can leave a lasting impression on policymakers
• Opt for handwritten or emailed letters. Despite the rise of social media, private correspondence remains a powerful and personal form of civic engagement.

Show notes:

• How politicians evaluate public opinion (POLEVPOP) | ANU
• Explore one of the featured letters: Jeffrey Funerals letter to the PM (1996) | via Daniel Casey
• Daniel Casey, 'Dear John...': Letters from the public to Prime Minister Howard | UNSW Library

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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.

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In this special NAIDOC Week edition of Work with Purpose, guest host Kate Driver, CEO of IPPA ACT, leads a powerful and heartfelt conversation celebrating the theme of NAIDOC Week 2025: The Next Generation – Strength, Vision, and Legacy.

Kate is joined by two inspiring young First Nations leaders – Luke Stevens, a proud Gimuy Waluburra Yidinji and Kuku-Yalanji man working at the Department of Home Affairs, and Tianie Scott-Knight, a proud Yankunytjatjara, Pitjantjatjara, Anmatyerre, Kamilaroi and Wiradjuri woman and First Nations lead at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

This episode is a tribute to the strength of First Nations peoples and a call to action for deeper understanding, curiosity, and reconciliation within the public sector and beyond.

• Consider cultural identity and the importance of connection to Country when engaging with First Nations in the public sector
• Storytelling, music, and art play an important role in shaping First Nations leadership
• Allies can support First Nations by walking alongside them and genuinely listening to them.

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In this episode of Work with Purpose, host David Pembroke sits down with Madelaine Magi-Prowse and Loren Wills from the Behavioural Economics Team at the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet (BETA) to explore how behavioural science is reshaping policymaking across the Australian Public Service.

Take a behind-the-scenes look at BETA’s multidisciplinary approach – blending psychology, economics, data analysis, and policy expertise – to tackle complex challenges like financial regulation, health decisions, and social policy. This episode highlights the evolution of behavioural insights from simple interventions to sophisticated, evidence-based strategies that drive real-world impact.

A standout case study features BETA’s partnership with the Organ and Tissue Authority, where behaviourally informed messaging led to a 95% increase in organ donor registrations. The discussion also introduces the 4D Framework – Discover, Diagnose, Design and Deliver – a practical tool developed by BETA to help public servants apply behavioural insights in their daily work.

Key tips:

1. Tailor your approach using behavioural insights to match how people really behave.
2. Use the 4D Framework to embed behavioural science into your team’s policy work.
3. Back your messaging with evidence to build trust and boost public engagement.
4. Tap into BETA’s online modules to grow your behavioural science skills.

Whether you're new to behavioural science or looking to deepen your expertise, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration to help you put people at the centre of policy.

Show notes

• Behavioural Economics | BETA website
• The 4Ds: A framework for managing behavioural insights projects | The BETA 4D Framework summary
• BE up-skilled | Behavioural Economics | BETA’s Online learning courses
• Online Survey Software | Qualtrics Survey Solutions | The BETA Behavioural Discovery Tool
• 4 Easy Ways to Apply EAST Framework to Behavioural Insights | BIT website

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