GovComms: The Future of Government Communication

In this episode of the GovComms Podcast, host David Pembroke welcomes back Jennifer Muir, a communication professional with over 25 years of experience in the not-for-profit, government, social impact, and civil society sectors.Jennifer, who has recently been appointed to the Global Alliance board for Public Relations and Communication Management, shares insights into the Global Alliance's mission and her role in leading international collaborations and community connections across the Asia-Pacific region. Her discussion emphasises the rapid growth of the communication profession in Asia and the need for aligning professional standards globally.The conversation also discusses the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the communications field. Jennifer highlights the importance of a human-centered approach to AI, urging communication professionals to understand and responsibly use AI tools. She discusses the slower adoption of AI in government due to regulatory and privacy concerns, contrasting it with the faster-paced technology advancements in the private sector.Jennifer also shares information about the upcoming World PR Conference (WPRF) in Bali in November 2024, a great opportunity for communicators for professional growth and networking opportunities. More information about this conference can be found at: https://www.globalalliancepr.org/wprfDiscussed in this episode:Professional capability frameworks and their alignment in the ASEAN region.Importance of trust and transparency in corporate and government communications.Role of the Public Relations Institute of Australia and its recent name change.The benefits of attending international communication conferences for professional development.Show notes:Jennifer Muir | LinkedInWorld Public Relations Forum | Global Alliance PR

In this episode of the GovComms Podcast, host David Pembroke interviews Tim Gavel, a veteran sports broadcaster who has transitioned into the role of Media Director at Sport Integrity Australia, an Australian Government agency aimed at promoting safe and fair sports.Tim shares insights from his extensive career in media and broadcasting, detailing his journey from a disc jockey in Western Queensland to a highly respected commentator in Canberra. The discussion highlights his relentless work ethic and the skills he developed over decades, which he now applies to his current role in the public service.Tim provides an in-depth look at the multifaceted issues managed by Sport Integrity Australia, including anti-doping, sexual abuse, integrity in sports betting, and racial abuse. He discusses the dynamic leadership of David Sharpe, the CEO of Sport Integrity Australia, and the challenges of building a robust framework for the organisation on the go. Tim elaborates on his daily routine, which involves early morning media analysis and maintaining strong relationships with journalists to ensure transparency and accurate reporting.The conversation also touches on the importance of collaboration with key stakeholders, such as the Minister’s office and national sports organisations. Discussed in this episode:Tim’s strategy for handling media inquiries and building trust with journalists.The role of the National Integrity Framework in Australian sports.The evolution of Sport Integrity Australia’s communication strategies.Innovative educational initiatives for athletes using virtual reality.

In this episode of GovComms, we are joined by Strath Gordon, Head of Public Affairs and Communications at the Australian Olympic Committee.With the 2024 Paris Olympics starting in July, Strath shares insights into the planning involved in preparing for the Olympic games, including the introduction of 460 Australian athletes to the public and the coordination required to manage media coverage for the event. He emphasises the importance of storytelling in sports communication, and discusses the AOC’s plans for effective on-ground media communication in Paris to ensure all athletes receive appropriate coverage and support.Reflecting on the Tokyo Olympics, Strath highlights the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, from the postponement of the games to maintaining constant communication with athletes to keep their spirits high. He touches on the lessons learned during this period, such as the critical role of effective communication and the necessity of leveraging technology to stay connected with stakeholders.Strath outlines how the AOC adapts to the rise of streaming services and digital media by providing content that enhances the viewing experience across various platforms. Additionally, the conversation highlights the AOC's community engagement efforts, such as the Olympics Unleashed Program, which aims to inspire young Australians by connecting them with Olympians.

In this episode of GovComms, we are joined by Mardi Stewart, the Branch Manager of Campaigns and Strategic Communication at the Department of Social Services.As a leader with extensive experience in strategic communication and public campaigns, Mardi shares insights on creating impactful and award-winning campaigns. From the foundational aspects of embracing a learning mindset to the intricacies of campaign management, she highlights the multifaceted approach required to navigate and excel in government communications.Leadership in public communication not only involves the strategic dissemination of information but also encompasses fostering resilience and passion among communication professionals. Mardi emphasises the importance of loving what you do, and that passion fuels perseverance and success in any professional endeavor.Mardi also explores the role of public communication campaigns in addressing societal issues and enhancing community well-being. She outlines the structured processes behind successful campaigns, from initial research to creative development and rigorous evaluation.Discussed in this episode:Mardi Stewart's journey and passion in public sector communications.Key campaigns like "Stop it at the Start" and community awareness initiatives.Importance of mentorship and professional networks in communications.Challenges and shifts in media landscapes impacting government communication.

In this episode of GovComms, we continue our conversation with Bevan Hannan, General Manager of the Communications Division at Services Australia.Bevan delves into the complexities of government communication, drawing on his extensive experience to explore how crises like the Bali bombings have shaped public narratives and the role of media in managing these narratives.Bevan reflects on the human aspects of communications and shares lessons learned from coordinating the government's response and supporting affected families. He explains how he strategically used media to maintain control over the public discourse and ensure sensitive handling of the aftermath.The conversation also ventures into the future of communication in public service, particularly the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Bevan discusses the potential for AI to enhance service delivery and improve the accessibility and efficiency of government communications.The episode takes a reflective turn as he addresses the Robodebt scandal, considering its impact on public trust and the essential role of integrity in government communications.Follow GovComms Podcast on LinkedIn

In this episode of GovComms, we are joined once again by Stephanie Speck, who is now the Head of Communications for the Green Climate Fund, for a conversation focusing on effective climate change communication.With extensive experience in public sector communication globally, Stephanie shares insights into empowering climate-impacted communities to tell their authentic stories through "Story Sovereignty." This approach humanises climate change and grounds narratives in real-life experiences.Stephanie also delves into the strategic evolution of the Green Climate Fund's communication, moving from output-focused tactics to strategies that prioritise reputation, return on investment, and relationship building, aiming to enhance global impact and drive effective climate action.The conversation explores the challenge of misinformation in climate discourse, with Stephanie highlighting strategies to counter false narratives and the emphasising the importance of accurate communication in building trust and consensus on climate issues.Follow GovComms Podcast on LinkedIn

This time on GovComms we are joined by Andrea Garcia, a communication professional with over 15 years’ experience working for various organisations.Andrea shares her stories working in UNICEF, Weber Shandwick and the New York State Court System in the United States and the Canberra Light Rail project, Museum of Australian Democracy (MOAD), and the Canberra Institute of Technology in Canberra, Australia.Discussed in this episode:Andrea's work across various sectors, including government, non-profit, and private sectors.The importance and strategies of stakeholder engagement and community consultationThe role of integrated marketing communications in effectively disseminating information and engaging with diverse audiences.The transition from working in high-profile, private sector roles to more community-focused, public sector positions.Follow GovComms Podcast on LinkedIn

In this episode of GovComms Podcast, we are joined by Ruth Dewsbury, a communication strategist with more than 20 years’ experience in government communications in the Australian federal government. Her most recent role was as a Senior Director of Communications at the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.Along with host David Pembroke, Ruth reflects on the significant changes in the communication landscape, particularly the shift from traditional methods like typewriters and carbon paper to the digital revolution, which introduced new communication channels and tools, and the impact of the 24-hour news cycle.“Things have changed massively in the whole communications land... Especially with the digital revolution.” – Ruth DewsburyRuth emphasises the need for clear communication objectives by ‘going back to the basics’, and clear outcomes to effectively determine target audiences, messages, and channels.“While there have been massive changes, a lot hasn't changed like the general approach to communications, strategic communications in its entirety hasn't changed, and in some ways, I think there's a real need to get back to basics." – Ruth DewsburyRuth also talks about the unique challenges of communicating about climate change, including dealing with disinformation, engaging diverse audiences, and the importance of addressing climate anxiety, especially among young people.“Disinformation has just gone wild, and different groups in the community are responding in different ways. There's huge climate anxiety with young people, in particular, something like 67% of young people think." – Ruth DewsburyTune in to gain insights into gathering authentic stories to make government communications more relatable and effective, and more.Show notes:Ruth Dewsbury | LinkedInFollow GovComms Podcast on LinkedIn