GovComms: The Future of Government Communication

On this episode of the GovComms Podcast, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to a highly experienced media adviser and communications professional, Tess Salmon. Tess is currently the General Manager of External Affairs and Communication at Western Sydney Airport. Before this she had roles as the Director of Media and Communication to Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack and Media Manager for the NSW Police Force. In this conversation David and Tess discuss best practice communications during a crisis. Telling the story of how she responded on the spot to the Martin Place siege, where she was a media adviser at the time. Here she explains how it is important to stay calm and use your communications skills to instill confidence in other people. Tess also explains in detail how the day of the siege played out and how this moment has impacted her and given her lessons that she has taken into her career. Following on from this, Tess chats to David about her small business that she used to run, AUBE Communications, and what caused her to move from roles working in crisis communications to strategic communications instead. In this episode Tess also discusses her previous work as a journalist and how she utilises her skills in this field in her work today. David and Tess finish off their conversation looking at the work Tess is completing in the preparation for the new Western Sydney airport. How do you communicate the importance of this airport to such a wide audience? Discussed in this episode: What can everyday communicators learn from crisis communications? How can communicators learn from journalists? The importance of learning from every experience within your career.

On this episode of the GovComms Podcast, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to strategic communication adviser, change manager and project manager Merrin Fabre. Merrin is currently leading the corporate communications team at the Victorian department of Families, Fairness and Housing. When not doing this, she is working with the IABC Victoria where she is currently their president. In this conversation David and Merrin discuss alignment and what you can do as a communicator to help others within an organisation get on ‘the same page’. What skills do you need in order to do this? How do you decide on the overarching view of where your organisation is going? Merrin also draws on her previous experience from working at the CSRIO and how she helped leaders, scientists and engineers within the organisation understand the importance of communication. Following on from this, Merrin explains that a communicators approach is not always the correct approach. That is why, when it comes to deciding on how to run your organisations communications, you must compromise your thinking and work with others from various sectors within your organisation to decide on the best approach that fits all. In this episode, Merrin also discusses how to utilise company values to drive culture and to drive change. How do you help leaders understand the importance of values in their decision making? David and Merrin finish off their conversation looking at how the pandemic has affected government staff in Victoria. How have they built resilience and continued to move forward? Discussed in this episode: How to align those within your organisation. The importance of collaboration in creating a ‘best fits’ communications approach. Why values are essential to driving change within your organisation.

On this episode of the GovComms Podcast, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to the President of PA Social, Italy’s National Association for ‘new communication’, Francesco Di Costanzo. Joining us from Florence, Italy, Francesco is an expert in government communications, having over 16 years’ experience in the sector, as well as authoring many books discussing ‘new communication’ within the Italian government. In this conversation Francesco discusses how government communicators in Italy have adapted and changed their roles to help quickly and effectively communicate emergency information during the COVID-19 pandemic. Francesco discusses the tools that these communicators have utilized to do this, as well as how they have worked with different social media channels to help relay information from the government to the citizens. Following on from this, Francesco draws on his experience and insights to share some of his top tips for social media managers who work within government departments around the world and how it is vital now more than ever that we know how to use social media to our advantage. In the episode, Francesco also discusses the work that he and the team at PA Social do and how them and their members work together to help improve digital communications for government. David and Francesco finish off their conversation looking into the future, reflecting on where they see PA Social going in the next few years. To get in contact with Francesco and the team at PA Social, visit their website or alternatively connect with Francesco on LinkedIn. Discussed in this episode: How COVID-19 shaped and changed government communications in Italy. Why Social Media is an essential tool to government in 2021. What is PA Social and what role do they play in Italian government communications.

On this episode of the GovComms Podcast, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to the Founding Director of Social Marketing @ Griffith, Sharyn Rundle-Thiele. Joining us from Queensland, Sharyn is an expert in all things social marketing. Drawing from her background in commercial marketing, her current research focuses on applying marketing to benefit both people and the planet. In this conversation Sharyn discusses the true meaning of marketing and explains to us why it is one of the most misunderstood terms in the corporate world, and how we as communications professionals can learn to explain marketing to the world in the correct way. Sharyn also explains how effective good social marketing can be, using as an example a project that her and the team at Social Marketing @ Griffith worked on where they used social marketing to successfully reduce the death rate of Koala’s by dogs. Following on from this example, Sharyn shares with David and the audience some tips for creating a successful social marketing campaign, and how these steps can be incorporated into the work of all communications professionals. In the episode, Sharyn also shares with us how she feels digital technology has changed and evolved the communications professions. David and Sharyn finish off the episode focusing on the future of Social Marketing @ Griffith, and where Sharyn sees the organisation 12-18 months from now. To get in contact with Sharyn and the team at Social Marketing @ Griffith, visit their website where you can learn about all the courses that they offer on Social Marketing and find all their contact details. Discussed in this episode: Why is marketing such a misunderstood term? How social marketing can create behaviour change. Tips for creating a successful social marketing campaign.

On this episode of the GovComms Podcast, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to Agile Delivery Adviser and Digital Delivery Transformation expert, Sonia Irwin. Sonia has worked in Canberra for over 25 years and is currently working with the Department of Agriculture, Water and Resources as well as directing her very own practice, Redgrass Communications. In this conversation Sonia discusses the role that Agile Delivery plays in Communications and explains to David how it is different from strategic communications. She explains that being ‘Agile’ is all about keeping a flexible mindset and rebranding yourself or your organisation. Sonia also shares her view on company vision and mission statements, and what steps you should take to create not only a good, but effective one. Your vision should be an ‘elevator’ that helps bring those in your organisation to where you want them to be. Using her insights gained from user testing and research, Sonia also speaks to her love of IT, however acknowledges that people can sometimes get lost with it, particularly when it becomes a bit intense with tools such as coding. As a result, she tells us the important role she plays in translating ‘tech speak’ to publics, and how she goes about doing so. In the episode, Sonia also shares her advice to government communicators at a time where the industry is going through rapid change due to the result of the COVID-19 pandemic. David and Sonia finish off their conversation looking into the future, discussing what Sonia hopes to achieve in her career in the next few months. To get in contact with Sonia, contact her on LinkedIn. To learn more about Agile Delivery, visit either Sonia’s company website, Redgrass Communications or the IABC Discussed in this episode: What is Agile Delivery and how can it assist you in communications. How the communications landscape is changing in regard to ICT. The importance of an effective company vision and mission statement.

On this episode of the GovComms Podcast, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to communications coach, mentor and speaker, Chris Huet. Chris is based here in the Nation’s Capital where he works as a Communications Coach for Understood Consulting Services and a Speaker Coach for TEDxCanberra. As well as this, Chris has also led a fighter jet squadron and performed his very own poetry on stages across the globe. Taking all his skills and experiences into account, in this podcast Chris speaks to David about how people should communicate from ‘the COCKPIT’, a terminology her gained from his time in the air force. Chris explains the importance of reflection and how people, particularly those in business, don’t take enough time to reflect on their meetings, conversations or days in general, and how this is potentially damaging to them. He shares with David tips on how to fix this and how to fit reflection into your everyday schedule. Further breaking down his COCKPIT terminology, Chris talks about the importance of being considered and consistent in your communications message.  He explains the role that emotion plays in messaging and why we must utilize it in order for our messaging to be successful. Chris finishes off the terminology by describing how to use trust and how to build it for the long term in order to bring all of the steps of COCKPIT together. Trust is the key to communication and is what Chris believes will unlock the full potential of any communication plan or strategy. David and Chris finish off the episode by discussing some quick tips for speaking in front of crowd, such as an ‘iron man’ posture, and how to project your voice. To get in contact with Chris for tips on your own communications, engage with him on LinkedIn or contact him through Understood Consulting Services website. Discussed in this episode: How the COCKPIT terminology will assist you in communications. The importance that trust and relationships play in maintaining strong communications with stakeholders. Why communication skills are vital for every career, not just someone who works in comms.

On this episode of the GovComms Podcast, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speakers to cognitive psychologist, Barbara Tversky. Currently located in New York, Barbara is a Professor of Psychology at Columbia Teachers College as well as a Professor Emerita of Psychology at Stanford University. She has conducted extensive research into the areas of memory, language, spatial thinking, event cognition, extended mind, diagrammatic reasoning, design, gesture and creativity. In this podcast, Barbara shares with us what she has learnt about the brain and how her research on gesture and movement can benefit communicators when trying to get an audience to understand or learn about a certain concept or idea. Barbara explains how the brain is quite complex, and as a result, when you are trying to get a group of people to understand something, you must do so in a way that easy for the brain to understand. She goes on to explain studies which she has conducted that prove how using gestures play a big role in helping someone understand a concept or remember a set of rules that they have to follow. However, with the COVID-19 pandemic seeing people separated and having to communicate through video conferencing platforms, such as zoom, more often, Barbara explains the difficulties that this holds for communicators and what changes she feels need to be made to these services, to allow the most effective forms of communication. Barbara explains that gesturing is a natural way of communication, and that it should be used. She also explains to David that humans are visual thinkers and therefore should not shy away from trying to visualize ideas and concepts to their audience. We end the episode with some tips from Barbara on how government communicators should use gestures and graphics to their advantage. Discussed in this episode: How our brains understand information and concepts and how we can best communicate them to one another. The importance of gestures and the research that proves how effective they are. How to communicate effectively when face-to-face options are not possible.

On this episode of the GovComms Podcast, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to the Founder and President of the Gen Z Identity Lab, Anya Dua. Living in Miami Florida, Anya is the youngest guest to have ever joined us on the podcast. At just 15 Anya has appeared in The New York Times and Forbes, sharing her views on an array of political and social issues that the world faces. She is determined to change how the media views her generation and works hard to educate, inspire and empower her peers. In this podcast, Anya discusses the purpose and mission of the Gen Z Identity Lab. She also shares her thoughts on how Generation Z is viewed by the rest of the world and explains why they should be an integral part of government communications. From an idea in year 8, to the business it is now, Anya shares her story of how the Gen Z Identity Lab came to be and what the important research that the Lab conducts on Generation Z, means for government communications. Anya also touches on how the political landscape has changed globally and as a result their generation cares about and is involved more than ever in politics, and what this will mean for the future. David asks Anya what Generation Z can bring to the political table. Anya explains that no one understands Generation Z, like Generation Z, meaning that their role in a business can help create messages that target the audience best, especially when it comes to creating content for social media. Finally, we end the episode with an important message from Anya, to decision makers from around the world, on what you can do to help make their generation be heard. Discussed in this episode: What the Gen Z Identity Lab is and why it is important to the world of government communications. Why Generation Z care more about politics than they ever have before. How decision makers can utilize this generation to create more targeted messages to their audience.

On this episode of the GovComms Podcast, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to the Principal Advisor to Proximity, Kerri Hartland. Before joining Proximity, Kerri was the Secretary of the Department of Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business. Throughout her thirty-year APS career, Kerri was also the Deputy Director General of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO). In this podcast, Kerri discusses her new role in government consulting at Proximity. She gives her thoughts on the evolving role of consultants in the public sector. Kerri explains how her background and skills as a journalist and a communications professional translated into her role as the Secretary of a major government department in Australia. Kerri reveals what it is like being a Secretary in the Australian Public Service (APS), shining a light on the job of some of the most important people in government. What skills are needed to become a Secretary? What is it like briefing a government minister? How do you get a Secretary’s attention? Kerri discusses what she enjoyed most about her career in the APS, including what her favourite roles were. She reflects on what she did well as Secretary, and what she could have done better. She gives some advice on how public servants should interact with department heads, and how communications professionals can get their foot in the door of a Secretary’s office. Kerri and David examine the changing media landscape in Australia, and what this means for government and communications professionals. They also discuss the coming COVID-19 vaccination campaign, and what communications professionals and APS leadership should know about the road ahead. Discussed in this episode: What it is like working as the Secretary of a major government department in the APS. The skills of a journalist, and their relevance to a career in the public service. The career of Kerri Hartland, a journalist and communications professional who ascended to the highest rungs of the public service ladder.

On this special episode of GovComms, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to listening expert Oscar Trimboli. Oscar Trimboli is the host of the award-winning podcast Deep Listening and is also the Author of Deep Listening: Impact Beyond Words. He is considered one of Australia’s foremost experts on the topic of interpersonal listening. He is also a consultant to organisations such as Google, Qantas, News Corp, PayPal and TripAdvisor. As a consultant, Oscar helps executive teams perfect their listening skills to the benefit of their customers and employees. In this episode, Oscar discusses the importance of interpersonal listening. He explains how improved listening skills can lead to a more positive and collaborative workplace. Oscar also explains the five levels of listening and how to improve each of these in order to reap their rewards. Oscar goes on to talk about the listening skills required to be a great leader and gives advice for government communicators about how they can improve their practice by advancing their listening techniques. This interview is a recording from the 2020 GovComms Festival, which featured hundreds of speakers from around the world. To view more content from the GovComms Festival, please visit the GovComms Institute website. Discussed in this episode: The five levels of listening and how to unlock them. The importance of listening within government, and how government communicators can improve their listening skills to the benefit of citizens. Practical advice on how to become a better listener.

On this episode of GovComms, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to Howard Parry-Husbands about how systems thinking can be used to solve complex problems. Howard is the CEO of Pollinate, one of Australia’s consulting and market research leaders in the world of branding, innovation and communications. In his spare time, he is studying a Masters in Systems Thinking and Forestry at the Australian National University. Howard and David discuss the definition of systems thinking, which Howard believes is: the recognition that everything is related to everything else. This means that a solution to one problem can inadvertently create another problem. In order to use systems thinking to solve these complex issues, Howard explains how we first must understand the key parts of the complex system which we are working with. He explains this using the Murrray Darling Basin as an example. Howard believes that humans are bad at understanding complexity, and better at understanding cause and effect. Therefore, we need to use metaphors, visuals and storytelling to communicate your complex message to the public. As an example, Howard compares how the COVID-19 pandemic was dealt with in Australia, New Zealand and the US. Howard believes that this comparison highlights the effects of what happens when systems thinking is put in place, compared to when it’s not. Howard also gives his opinion on the single-message strategy, and how it is incompatible with an understanding of systems thinking. According to Howard, governments regularly make the mistake of giving one message to multiple audiences (the single-message strategy). Discussed in this episode: What is systems thinking, and how can it be used by communications professionals? The benefits of understanding systems thinking from a policy perspective. What is the single-message strategy, and why do governments need to stop using it?

On this episode of GovComms, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to Shey Dimon about the role that government communicators need to play in communicating cyber security messages. Shey is the Marketing and Communications Manager at Penten, an Australian cyber technology company based in Canberra. Shey has over a decade’s worth of experience working in communications in and around government. In the past she worked for the Head of Australian Defence in Washington DC, as well as the Marketing and Communication Manager at BMT. Shey and David discuss the best resources that communicators can use to understand the world of cyber security. Shey explains the value the government’s official cyber security strategy document that was released in August last year. Shey runs through some tips that everyone can use to minimise their chance of being the victim of cyber security attacks in the future. Shey explains why it is important to tell someone immediately if you have experienced a cyber-attack, whether it is in the workplace or at home. Shey states that government workplaces need quarterly updates about what they should do to avoid cyber-attacks, as well as information on recent attacks that may have happened nearby. To make things interesting, Shey recommends using other companies who have been breached by a cyber-attack as a case-study that you give to employees for them to learn from. This podcast also explores the work of the company that Shey works for, Penten. In 2020, Penten created technology to all those who work in Defence to communicate both securely and flexibly. These technologies allow Defence staff to work from home, which in the past was seen as a near impossible scenario. Shey also discusses her opinion on Artificial Intelligence (AI), and how AI can be used as an offensive and defensive tool. Shey believes that AI is something that Australians should not be scared of. For more information about Penten: https://www.penten.com/ Discussed in this episode: What communications professionals need to know about cyber technology. How we can all shield ourselves against the threat of cyber-attacks, in the workplace and at home. The work and achievements of Australian cyber-technology company, Penten.

On this episode of GovComms, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to Zora Artis and Wayne Aspland about their recently-released research that is now available on the GovComms Institute. Zora Artis is the CEO of Artis Advisory and an alignment strategist with almost three decades of experience working with government, private, and non-profit sectors. Wayne Aspland is the Principal at The Content Factory. He has more than fifteen years of experience in corporate, leadership and internal communications. In this podcast, Zora and Wayne discuss their recent study: The Road to Alignment. The pair firstly discuss the definition of alignment, which they believe as being all about unity. This study is a follow-up to their 2018 study into strategic alignment, which found that many organisations struggled with their alignment strategies, and that this was because people either didn’t know how to align or they were not committed to it. Since writing this paper they realised that COVID-19 has caused some organisations to be more aligned and others to be less. Working remotely has played a role in this, as well as other variables that were present before the pandemic hit such as having ill-defined values. Zora and Wayne have created a four-step strategy: one VISION, one STORY, one TEAM and one VOICE. The pair discuss this strategy step-by-step in this podcast episode, explaining that these steps involve gaining support from an organisation’s executive team, creating a narrative about your organisation that resonates with your staff, and working together with them to ensure that this narrative is communicated by the staff correctly and effectively with each other and the public. Zora and Wayne show that communications done well can act as a fundamental enabler for alignment. To read Zora and Wayne’s latest paper visit: https://contentgroup.com.au/govcomms-institute/ To find out more about alignment visit: The Content Factory: http://www.thecontentfactory.com.au/ Artis Advisory: https://www.artisadvisory.com/ Discussed in this episode: What is alignment, and why is it important? How has COVID-19 impacted the level of alignment in organisations? What role do communications professionals have to play in improving alignment?

In this special episode of the GovComms Podcast, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to Donnie Nelson, the General Manager of the Dallas Mavericks basketball team which competes in the NBA. This podcast is a recording of a session from the 2020 GovComms Festival. To see even more content from the GovComms Festival, please visit the GovComms Institute website. Over the coming months, we will be uploading all of the content from the Festival to the website, so stay tuned! In this episode of the podcast, David and Donnie discuss the secrets to bringing a team together and sustaining high performance over a period of time. Donnie explains why he thinks the secret to leadership is understanding the ‘human business’. Donnie is one of the most successful and respected General Managers in basketball. He brought together the Mavericks team that won the NBA championship in 2011. David and Donnie also discuss how the Dallas Mavericks have been able to bring together people from a wide array of backgrounds. They discuss how to unite a diverse group of people around a common goal. Donnie explains that a commitment to winning an NBA championship is the first, second and third most important quality in a player. Donnie claims that too many people in basketball are ‘blinded by talent’, and that not enough focus on motivation, drive, integrity and teamwork skills. Donnie explains how he managed to get everyone in the Dallas Mavericks organization, from the owner Mark Cuban down to the ball boys, united behind a common goal. Donnie also discusses the importance of listening, communication and patience in the development of high-performing teams. Discussed in this episode: How Donnie Nelson uses communication and listening practices to get the best out of elite athletes competing in one of the biggest sports in the world. The Dallas Maverick’s victory in the 2011 NBA Championship. How the Dallas Mavericks have been able to unite a team, and an organization, around a common goal, and how non-sporting teams can implement those same techniques.

In this special episode of the GovComms Podcast, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to Eddie Jones, the Head Coach of the English Rugby Union team This podcast is a recording of a session from the 2020 GovComms Festival. To see even more content from the GovComms Festival, please visit the GovComms Institute website. Over the coming months, we will be uploading all of the content from the Festival to the website, so stay tuned! In this episode of the podcast, David and Eddie discuss team Eddie’s success in building and sustaining high performing teams in the sport of rugby. Eddie reveals his keys to motivation and creating a vision so that your team can achieve its goals, no matter what industry you’re in. The stage is set as we learn that government communications teams have a real opportunity, in the age of digital transformation, to jump from being an under resourced function to taking a position of strength and leadership. Eddie then shares how to go about creating a team that is continually improving and providing value. Some important questions that are examined include: how to build an inspiring story for a team to follow, how to get team members to give their best in pursuit of your vision and why it is beneficial to surround yourself with people who represent different perspectives. This is an essential watch for those looking to improve their skills in leadership communication. Discussed in this episode: How Eddie Jones leads national sporting teams. Why listening skills are important to leadership and continuous improvement. Set long-term goals and visions that your team will follow and be motivated by.

On this episode of GovComms, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to Distinguished Professor at the University of Technology Sydney, Jim Macnamara. The two discuss the use of technology in the communications profession, as well as the importance of listening and two-way communication. Jim is an internationally recognized academic known for his pioneering research into measurement and evaluation of public communication. He is also considered one of the world’s leading experts on organizational listening. Jim recently presented at this year’s GovComms Festival on that very topic. Jim and David delve into the intersection between technology and communications, explaining what technology skills need to be learnt by communications professionals. Jim talks about why he thinks communications has changed the most out of any profession over the past decade, and what communications professionals need to know about these changes. Jim and David explore the ethical side of these technological changes, including the topics of privacy, social media algorithms, misinformation and fake news. Jim then explains why he thinks inter-disciplinary communication can be the solution to these ethical dilemmas. Jim also discusses how technology can assist listening habits, whilst also touching on the importance of building listening cultures within government. Jim discusses the nature of communication as a two-way process. He explains how and why communications, in its current form, has remained mostly one-way. Jim discusses why listening and effective engagement needs to be a core part of any communications practice. Discussed in this episode: The past, present and future of the communications profession. The importance of ‘listening cultures’ within communications approaches, and how to foster two-way communication practices How the intersection of technology and communication is changing the way government communication operates, and what we need to know about these changes. How communications professionals can take their seat at the decision-making table.

On this episode of GovComms, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to the Associate Director of Media and Government Relations at Sydney Trains, Vanessa Grimm. The two discuss Sydney Trains’ approach toward handing COVID-19, as well as an exciting new venture from Sydney Trains. Before her career in communications, Vanessa had decades of experience working in the highest levels of the news media. She spent thirteen years as a journalist working in the news teams at Sky News, Nine News Sydney, and the ABC. She was also the inaugural Executive Producer for Sky News’ flagship political program Agenda. Vanessa discusses Inside Central Station, an upcoming television series about the work of Sydney Trains and its staff. Two years in the making, Inside Central Station will shine a light on the untold stories inside one of Australia’s largest and most complex government organisations. The series will examine the unique and exciting daily experiences of many of the 11,000 staff members at Sydney Trains. Vanessa also explores the topic of how Sydney Trains navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, what platforms they used to interact with train users, which channels worked best and how Sydney Trains changed their strategy after the March lockdown. Vanessa gives insights into how Sydney Trains celebrated their workforce, and how they celebrated pride in Sydney Trains at the difficult times during the pandemic. Vanessa comments on how Sydney Trains got used to encouraging people to not use their services. She explains why government agencies, of every stripe, need to become content creators by finding compelling and engaging stories within their organization. Discussed in this episode: Sydney Trains’ upcoming television series, Inside Central Station. How Sydney Trains managed to handle the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown. What worked and what didn’t in the effort to promote social distancing on Sydney’s trains. How and why organisations can look internally for engaging stories that can be used in communications campaigns that have an impact.

On this episode of GovComms, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks to Merryn McKinnon, a Senior Lecturer and Researcher at the Centre for the Public Awareness of Science at the ANU. Merryn is one of Australia’s experts on helping scientists and policy makers communicate science issues with clarity and impact. She regularly appears on ABC Radio to discuss scientific issues, and she recently hosted the Science Communication Panel at the 2020 GovComms Festival. In 2017, Merryn published an academic paper about the history of vaccination campaigns and how government have executed vaccination campaigns in the past. With the COVID-19 vaccine around the corner, Merryn has come on to the GovComms Podcast to discuss the challenges and opportunities the government faces in convincing the public to get vaccinated. Merryn and David address the debate around whether focusing on emotion is more effective than focusing on scientific fact. Trust in experts and scientists has risen in 2020, but is appealing to people’s empathy and humanity more effective in changing behaviour? Who should be the government’s prime audience when it comes to their communications about the vaccine? Merryn also explains the role that trust in government plays in contributing to effective vaccination campaigns. She also explains how government and politicians can regain trust so that the public will feel more comfortable taking the COVID-19 vaccine. Merryn also discusses the anti-vaccination sentiment that is prominent on social media. She explains why people call themselves anti-vaxxers, and how government needs to communicate with these people. Discussed in this episode: How governments should talk about the upcoming COVID-19 vaccine. The movement of anti-vaxxers, and how government should communicate with people who are reluctant to take the vaccine. Trust in government, experts and scientists during the COVID-19 pandemic.

On this episode of GovComms, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke and Jordie Kilby discuss the Pacific Region – a dynamic and diverse region that includes countries like Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Somoa, Tonga and Papua New Guinea. Jordie is a communications consultant based in Fiji, but working across the entire Pacific region. Jordie began his career at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation working first in Local Radio in Canberra before a stint as a presenter and senior producer for Triple J. More recently, Jordie was a Communications Team Leader at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in Fiji. Jordie discusses how the Pacific has handled COVID-19, the challenges associated with government communication in many pacific countries and what mediums work best in countries like Fiji. Jordie and David discuss the Pacific’s under-reported measles outbreak in 2019, and how it might have assisted their preparedness for the COVID-19 pandemic. Jordie also discusses what he thinks are the similarities and differences between the Pacific and Australia, whilst also revealing how the Pacific views Australia from a diplomatic perspective. Jordie explains what Pacific nations like Fiji could teach his home country of Australia, the biggest and most influential country in the region. Jordie makes the point that the biggest lesson in communication that Australia could learn from the Pacific is the power of storytelling and listening. Discussed in this episode: What it is like to be a government communicator in the Pacific region. What people in the Pacific understand about listening that Australians do not. The importance of storytelling to communications in the Pacific. How many Pacific countries handled COVID-19, and how some managed to remain COVID-free.

On this episode of GovComms, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke and Kellie Riordan looks at podcasts from an entirely new lens. Tune in to listen to a podcast … about podcasts. With the help of Australia’s leading podcast expert, we explore the history of podcasts, as well as their future. Kellie is Australia’s leading podcast strategist, and the creative lead behind many of Australia's biggest podcasts including Conversations, Ladies We Need To Talk, and Unravel True Crime. She was also the founding Commissioning Editor of ABC Audio Studios. Kellie recently founded her own independent audio and podcast consultancy, Deadset Studios. In this episode of GovComms, Kellie reveals why she left the ABC to create Deadset Studios. Kellie leads us through the three phases of podcasting throughout history, explaining why 2020 sparked the third phase. She predicts where the podcasting profession will be five years from now, as well as the trends that will eventually take over the podcasting world. Kellie explains what makes a good podcast, how to build a podcast audience, what makes podcasts different from radio and television, what the best platforms are to host your podcast and what skills you need to be a good podcast host. Kellie also gives tips on how to avoid ‘pod fade’, a common trend when people get excited about their podcast, only to lose interest after only a few episodes. Discussed in this episode: The past, present and future of podcasts and the podcasting industry. The career of Kellie Riordan, and how she became Australia’s leading podcast guru. How to create and sustain a successful podcast in 2020. The three phases in the history of podcasting, including the third phase which began in 2020.

On this episode on GovComms, Amy Arbery shows us the significance of behavioural science and psychology in the policy cycle. With the enormous behavioural changes that have occurred in the COVID-19 period, Amy explains how large an influence this area can have. contentgroup CEO, David Pembroke, sits down in the studio and learns what a behavioural science team has to offer. Amy has a wealth of experience in the public sector providing expert advice and analysis in understanding, designing, and implementing behavioural change interventions. She currently is the Director of the Behavioural Analysis Team at the Australian Department of Agriculture, Water, and the Environment. Amy leads us through some of the projects she has undertaken recently and the steps her team took to provide practical solutions. This discussion is indicative of how these teams are necessary in building further capability across a department. By giving these areas more sway, Amy tells us that we can understand what drives the people at the heart of the policy thereby delivering better results Discussed in this episode: The three superpowers in government: Strategical communications, stakeholder engagement and behavioural science The EAST (Easy, Accessible, Simple, Timely) Framework Human centred design COVID-19 as a catalyst for behavioural change

In this episode of GovComms, we revisit a conversation from a few weeks ago with Rebecca Richter, the Head of the Strategic Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Unit at the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Contentgroup CEO David Pembroke and Rebecca explore best practice when it comes to communicating dense and technical information. They also go on to discuss how best to add value as a communications team in a larger organization. Rebecca has a wealth of experience operating as a communications executive across both the public and private sectors. In addition to her current role, she has worked at the Australian Sport Commission as the director of Strategic Communications, and as media and communications advisor to Australia’s Chief Scientist. Discussed in this episode: How to effectively communicate technical information Increasing engagement through social media and bite sized content Focusing content creation to your audience Broadcast to Narrowcast and how to adapt

On this week of GovComms, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke speaks with Georgia Wright, the Director of Attention+Influence, a PR agency which is part of the CHE Proximity. In this episode we get a new perspective on working through the pandemic and how we can make the best out of a bad situation. In this time of rapid change, Georgia reveals her secrets to maintaining and achieving long-term success. Georgia has a wealth of Communications experience working with the biggest brands and organizations in sectors including Consumer Goods, Tech, Travel & Tourism, Luxury & Beauty and Consumer Entertainment. She is also a member of Women in PR, a membership body for senior women in the communications industry. In her current role as Director of Attention+Influence, she aims to combine public relations, influence, social media, and content as areas of specialization in order to offer clients an excellent communications experience. This is part of CHE (Clemenger Harvie Edge) Proximity. Discussed in this episode: How the pandemic has altered the workplace The importance of transparency Adapting campaign in the COVID era How to deal with a blocked news cycle Tips for long-term success

This week on GovComms, we speak with Professor Selena Bartlett who is a Research Capacity Building Professor in the School of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health at the Queensland University of Technology. Contentgroup CEO David Pembroke learns everything you need to know about the brain and how to train the brain from Professor Bartlett. In addition to her aforementioned role, Professor Bartlett is a Group Leader in Translational Neuroscience and has been awarded the Lawrie Austin Award for her contributions to Neuroscience by the Australian Neuroscience Society in 2019. Professor Bartlett is also the CEO and Founder of MiGFiT Inc, a start-up company spun out her research lab that is focused on brain training for resilience, fitness and to reduce addiction and obesity. She has won the Outstanding Achievement Award and the Biotech Research Award and was an Ambassador for the Women in Technology organisation. Professor Bartlett recently launched three books to raise awareness about the brain health and to make neuroscience neuroplasticity actionable. Additionally, she has presented a TEDx talk about the brain fitness and neuroplasticity revolution underway focused on neuroplasticity for brain health. Discussed in this episode: The evolution of the brain and how it affects us now How you can train your brain Prevention vs Treatment to improve mental health Mental health in the workplace Doomscrolling

In this episode of Govcomms, we interview Michelle Chant who is the Managing Director of the Change Collective, a consultancy group that deliver business transformation and service delivery within government and private organisations. Contentgroup CEO David Pembroke and Michelle discuss the nature of change and how it is fast becoming the new norm. Michelle is highly experienced in the field having worked as an Organisational Change Manager with Services Australia, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, the Department of Home Affairs and the Department of Immigration and Border Protection. In these positions, Michelle was influential in implementing significant change programs after identifying the blockers and drivers of change. She is passionate about change, using the power of ‘story telling’ to improve stakeholder buy in, and encouraging people to embrace change by putting the user at the centre of everything they do. Discussed in this episode: Government response to the pandemic Change as the new norm The importance of having communications come in on the ground floor Empathy Interventions you can implement as a change manager

This week on GovComms, we talk with Professor Sora Park, the Associate Dean of Research and Professor of Communication at the Faculty of Arts & Design at the University of Canberra. Professor Sora Park chats with contentgroup CEO David Pembroke about the rapidly changing media market during and post the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges of effectively communicating throughout. Sora was the former Director of the News & Media Research Centre at the University of Canberra and the Chair of Media Industry Studies Interest Group, International Communication Association (ICA). She is currently the President of Australian and New Zealand Communication Association (ANZCA).  She has extensive experience in policy research and consultancy regarding digital media in South Korea. In the private sector, she has had various consultancy experiences for major internet and media companies such as KBS, NHN Corp and MBC. She also has lots of education experience, teaching at Hanyang University and Kwangwoon University. Discussed in this episode: Trends in the consumption of Government media and content The impact of citizens being able to access content direct from Government Current issues in the media market such as anti-trust regulation and misinformation The future of media companies

Today, we chat with Professor Michael Cardew-Hall, the current Pro Vice-Chancellor of Innovation at the Australian National University. Here, he leads strategic initiatives to build growth in research and education outcomes through partnerships with industry, government and not-for-profit organisations. Contentgroup CEO David Pembroke and Professor Cardew-Hall sit down and discuss the difficulties that the ANU has undergone during this pandemic and how they keep pushing through. Michael is also a Chartered Engineer and a fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. He has previously held the position as CEO of ANU Connect Ventures, a pre-seed venture capital fund associated with ANU. During this podcast, we learn about the importance of transparency and two-way communication in innovation. We also discuss the future of higher education after the pandemic. Professor Cardew-Hall takes us through communicating with students, staff and partners and what to prioritise when things aren’t going your way. Discussed in this episode: The future of higher education post COVID-19 The art of story telling The importance of innovation during a crisis Connecting the business and public sectors

This week on GovComms, we revisit a discussion between contentgroup CEO David Pembroke and Mitch Joel, a leading thinker in all matters content. At the time of this conversation, Mitch was president of Mirium, a global marketing agency operating in over 20 countries with 2,000 employees. He has since founded Six Pixels Group, which is an advisory, investing and content producing company. Significantly, he also hosts his own podcast, Six Pixels of Separation, which has run for over 500 consecutive weeks. Discussed in this episode: How businesses and marketers can capitalize on the interconnections of modern society The strategy behind growing your audience The evolution of published content: from magazine to podcasts and beyond How to go about converting viewers into consumers

Our guest today has a mission to use her communications expertise to help bring state, county, and city government agencies together, learn from one another and expedite positive change. Today on GovComms, contentgroup CEO, David Pembroke, is joined by chief evangelist at GovQA, Jen Snyder to discuss how trends in business and consumer worlds can apply to the government space. GovQA is the leader in enterprise workflow automation for government requests, mainly focused on Public Records (FOIA). Jen is interested in meaningful conversations that look both at the big picture, as well as dig deep into nitty-gritty best-practice working sessions on all government challenges and opportunities including those related to technology, transparency, security, procurement, legislative mandates, compliance, staffing challenges, and more. Not only has she spent 15 years in the Government realm, she also spent ten years managing local and international business development initiatives for b2b companies. Discussed in this episode: How technology is advancing record management The value of change management Adapting to the COVID-19 new normal The trends that support effective government

This week on GovComms, we dip into the archives to a conversation between contentgroup CEO David Pembroke, and Head of ‘City Communications’ for the City of Vienna’s Press and Information Services, Martin Schipany. They reflect upon how the City of Vienna has developed their communications approach across Martin’s career. The city is now working across multiple media projects and using content communications to create a strong relationship with their citizens. Discussed in this episode: How do you get the attention of the political media officers Why all government departments need to discover their citizen’s journey Where Europe is in their adoption of content marketing Why communications team should be close to the leadership How do you convince government to adopt digital?

Our guest today understands the media landscape like the back of his hand.   Today on GovComms, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke and Chief Strategy Officer at OMD, Ian Czenz discuss how the media landscape has evolved over the past 20 years.   With plenty of enthusiasm, Ian and his team work with clients to deliver creative and innovative content.   His goal is to create good content that entertains, and important delivers results for his clients.   From starting his career as a media buyer at J. Walter Thompson and working on big blue-chip clients then moving into the media strategy, Ian has covered lots of ground in the industry.   In this episode of the podcast, they examine how speed continues to characterise the digital media landscape.   From diversifying a media strategy, to working quickly within an agency, Ian is making sure narratives come first – at scale and at speed.   Discussed in this episode: Reflecting on change in the media landscape Embracing creativity in media What is does a media strategy look like? The evolution of measuring campaign success The future of print, radio and television

Today on GovComms, we dip into the archives, when in 2016, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke was joined by a very special guest, Trish Johnston, who was then the Assistant Secretary of Communications at the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet in Canberra, Australia.   Trish has been in the communications game for over two decades. She's worked on some of the government's most complex policy issues including domestic violence, cyber security, indigenous affairs, climate change, resources and energy and preventative health.   Her experience spans large scale advertising campaigns, strategic communications, public relations, media, issues management and digital strategy.   Today, Trish is Assistant Secretary at the Communications Advice Branch at the Australian Government Department of Finance. That means that she runs the show on behalf of the very important policy department here in Australia.   Discussed in this episode: A typical day in an Australian Government Department Creating a high level of strategic interface Embedding the communications strategy in every conversation How to communicate a policy effectively Pitching your communications strategy

On this episode of GovComms, contentgroup CEO, David Pembroke, sat down in #studio19 with CEO of the Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering, Kylie Walker. She gives us a masterclass of advice. Kylie works everyday to open doors and create opportunities for people in STEM. She specialises in connecting technologists, engineers and scientists with governments, business, media and society – skills built over many years in senior federal communication and advocacy roles in the science, technology and health sectors. Kylie teaches us how to build communications plans into the workforce from day one. Her secret tip – repeat your message until you throw up. Listen to the episode to find out exactly how to build relationships that create meaningful dialogues, empower change, and promote sustained engagement. Discussed in this episode: Providing advice to government Building relationships between academia and the private sector How to create authentic connections in the workplace The importance of repeating your message, again… and again… Kylie’s strategic oversight framework Why we need to invest in digital skills

Internal communications are often left behind in workplaces. This week on GovComms, contentgroup CEO, David Pembroke, sat down with a local internal communications expert. Our guest this week is the Team Leader for Change and Communications at ACT Policing, Andrew Babington. They discuss the new $34m Police Services model, which sees ACT Policing taking a system-wide approach to crime prevention, disruption and response. Andrew talks us through how he is rolling out this program on the inside - helping police stay informed and stay connected. Andrew has over 10 years’ experience in journalism and government communication. He’s worked for Fairfax as a photojournalist and in the Indigenous affairs and social services sectors as a communications manager. He has led communication strategies for the 2018-19 and 2019-20 Federal Budgets, Enterprise Agreement bargaining for the Public Service’s largest workforce and was the communications adviser on the Parliamentary Enquiry in to ‘Robo-Debt’. He is also currently sitting as Non-Executive Board Director of Communications for the Youth Coalition of The ACT. Discussed in this episode: Adopting internal communication strategies Communication and implementation of the new Police Services Model Working with partners to deliver targeted messages How to effectively engage with communities 

In Australia, government is harnessing digital platforms to create engaging and informative content. Today on GovComms, contentgroup CEO, David Pembroke is joined by the Head of Digital Experience at the Australian War Memorial, Amanda Dennett. Amanda is an experienced communication professional, specialising in digital communication strategy, crisis communication, and media issues management. We investigate what Amanda found when she researched the way Australian Government is using social media. Amanda highlights industry success stories and the future direction of online communications. Discussed in this episode: How to measure a social media strategy Getting permission from senior leaders to deliver communication strategies Where has social media been used successfully in the public sector? The key skills of a communicator Creating credible and consistent information for online platforms

Today on GovComms, we discuss the importance of looking to design methods to create strong and targeted communication. Our guest is Dan Formosa, a design wiz living a couple of miles north of Manhattan. His research focus is accessible design. Dan’s expertise is knowing how to design to directly engage and fit the needs of their user. contentgroup CEO, David Pembroke and leading design consultant and researcher, Dan Formosa sit down to discuss the importance of embracing complexity in all types of work. Dan explains why communicators need to start thinking like designers. Dan works with companies, organisations, and internal creative teams to develop products and services in a wide range of categories. Dan’s background is in product design, and he holds a Masters and a Ph.D. in Ergonomics and Biomechanics. Dan based his career on the idea that design should focus on people, not things. His work has received numerous design awards and has been selected for national and international exhibits. In 1977, invited to work with the Eliot Noyes studio, Dan became the junior member of a design team that helped IBM conceive how a computer could possibly fit into a home. Discussed in this episode: Looking to the edges rather than the average Developing ideas – how to research and ask smart questions Maintaining the momentum to innovate – plan for small successes The minimum requirements of branding

What are our possible futures? How can government plan for increased digital technology? Is government leading the way for change? On this episode of GovComms, contentgroup CEO, David Pembroke, joined Dr Lucy Cameron to discuss digital transformation and future communications possibilities. Lucy is a leading proponent of foresight, digital transformation, and innovation in the Asia Pacific region. As a previous Queensland Government Smithsonian Fellow, she has a special interest in policy leading to innovation hot-spots. Prior to working at CSIRO's Data61 Lucy worked for 10 years in digital economy and productivity policy in the Queensland Government. Her PhD from the University of Queensland studied the impact of broadband on regional development. Discussed in this episode: -          Understanding the medium to long-term future -          Black swan events - how has the pandemic changed the course of Australia? -          What is digital transformation? -          The digital skills communicators need -          Creating priorities for Australian digital development

“There is so much to be told in Australia’s history, and there are terrible truths that need to be spoken about but there is also much to celebrate, and I hope we continue to build on that celebration.” A poignant closing from our guest this week, CEO of the Lowitja Institute, Australia’s national institute for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health research, Dr Janine Mohammed. On this week’s episode of GovComms, Dr Janine Mohammed sits down with our host, David Pembroke to discuss closing the health gap, creating a culture of safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and the role of the Lowitja Institute as the only health research that has a sole focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues. Dr Janine Mohamed (née Dutschke) is a proud Narrunga Kaurna woman from Point Pearce in South Australia who has dedicated her career to the Indigenous health through roles in nursing, management, and policy for over two decades.  Recently, Janine has contributed to the establishment of the Close the Gap campaign and was part of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander Peoples’ delegation that participated in the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues in 2011 and 2012.   Janine was appointed CEO of the Congress of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nurses and Midwives (CATSINatM) in 2013 and led the organisation for five years.  Janine has been recognised for her contributions on multiple occasions, including a University of South Australia Alumni Award in 2016, the ACT Health Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander “Individual” NAIDOC Award in 2018 and the 2019 NATSIHWA Lifetime Achievement Award due to her integral role in establishing a national professional association for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Health Practitioners.   She has also been awarded an Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity Fellowship and an Honorary Doctorate from Edith Cowan University. Discussed in this episode: -          Finding the language to discuss racism -          Creating systems that support cultural safety and lifelong learning -          The magic ingredients of effective communication -          Navigating unintended consequences of media coverage -          Ensuring research is relevant and accessible to those who need it -          The legacy of Lowitja O’Donoghue

How is COVID changing the way we operate? Some researchers are pivoting their focus, and looking at how people are coping with lockdown. With a background in psychology, our guest this week is researching the wellbeing of Australians during COVID and how government needs to adapt communications strategy in this time. In this episode of GovComms, contentgroup CEO, David Pembroke, is joined by Garrett Tyler-Parker in #studio19, to discuss research during a health crisis. As a second wave hits, Garrett stresses the importance of creating communications strategy that is engaged with the world, and reflects how people are feeling. Garrett is the Canberra Managing Director of Pollinate Research, an independent market and social research company. With research experience in Australia and South East Asia and previous experience in The Parliament House Federal Press Gallery, Garrett brings a well-rounded, real-world perspective to research, incorporating human behaviour and systems thinking, to deliver actionable results. Garrett’s experience covers a broad range of categories; from small not-for-profit organisations to local, state and federal government agencies, through to nation-leading companies and multi-national organisations. Garrett’s specialisation is strategic Government research, and bringing the voice of the public into the decision making process. Garrett is also a guest lecturer at ANU and UNSW on Market Research and was recently published in The Australian Journal of Psychology. Discussed in this episode: How are Australians dealing with COVID-19? Using research to ensure wider systems approaches Why psychographics drive engaged government communications The importance of rich picture exercises Understanding the why behind decision making The disruption of COVID and the why research is vital

From Glasgow to Pennsylvania State, Rose Cameron is a well-travelled communicator who brings curiosity, perspective, and resilience to her communications strategies. She has created success in her career by using her ingenuity. Like many Scots, Rose is driven by questioning the norm; why is it that way? Is it really needed anymore? And what do we need next?   Rose’s interest in cultural anthropology has led her to a long career in delivering communications strategies that transfer value to individuals.   In this episode from the 2015 archives, contentgroup CEO David Pembroke sits down with Rose Cameron to talk about the importance of elasticity in the workplace, staying young, learning and being real in the advertising industry.   Discussed in this episode: Knowing what topics fascinate people, and what will keep people engaged in your conversation Communicate by listening first Contextualising your communications strategy Transferring value – the new way of marketing Advice to government communicators in the digital age

In this week’s episode of GovComms we go back to 2015 when contentgroup CEO, David Pembroke sat down with Executive Manager, Communications & Engagement for the City of Boroondara, Deb Ganderton. Deb is the Executive Manager Communications and Engagement for one of Australia’s most innovative local council areas, the City of Boroondara in Melbourne. Her work at the City of Boroondara has seen the creation of a matrix style department successfully blending traditional communications and customer service roles with community and employee engagement and research. She has led projects achieving national and international recognition for strategy and evaluation. Currently, Deb is the President of International Business Communicators, an industry association dedicated to excellence in government communication. Deb is a legend of Australian municipal government communications. Her and David discuss Boroondara’s communication structure and how her team has implemented an award-winning content marketing strategy. In this conversation, we discuss building capacity within teams to add value to government departments and share their important work with the community. Discussed in this episode: Developing a strong internal communications network Consulting early and widely to ensure a smooth policy roll out The importance of co-creating Measuring the impact of an activity by knowing your goals and desired outcomes Creating autonomy within your team

Content communication can come with a minefield of legal issues. How do you identify legal issues? Who owns the content you are distributing? What happens when there is an intellectual property claim? This week go back to 2015 when contentgroup CEO, David Pembroke, sat down with leading commercial lawyer, Shaun Creighton, to discuss the copyright implications of creating and curating content. Shaun Creighton has specialist expertise in the identification, protection, and commercialisation of intellectual property rights. He has expertise and experience negotiating technology, broadcasting and commercial agreements. Previously, he has provided in-house Legal Counsel for the Australian Sports Commission and Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games Corporation. As a dual Olympian, Shaun has an extensive network in the sports and events industries. As part of ARETE Group’s thriving sports law practice group, he represents professional athletes, national sporting organisations, media outlets and event organisers on matters ranging from drafting sponsorship and merchandising agreements to broadcasting rights disputes, copyright advice, trade mark registration services, selection appeals, privacy, governance advice and Competition and Consumer Act issues. Discussed in this episode: Intellectual Property Law – what is it? Why we need contracts - indemnity and liability How content marketing fits in with law The legal questions that arise when distributing content Resolving issues by identifying them upfront The potential risks of using social media channels

Communications is about going with your gut. Our guest today, uses core values to create marketing campaigns that she knows will stand out. She understands when to use speed and when to be strategic and insight led. In this episode of GovComms, City Marketing Coordinator at the city of Ballarat, Lucy Ibrahim, joins contentgroup CEO, David Pembroke, to discuss the importance of delivering communications plans that connect with community members. Working in a city that shows genuine care and compassion for their community in the toughest of circumstances, Lucy talks about how to take those values and deliver effective communications solutions to big problems. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Lucy has led her community by engaging with stakeholders and supplying the city of Ballarat with accurate and accessible resources. Today, we dive back to when Lucy delivered and launched a marketing campaign, Be Kind Ballarat, in less than 24 hours. The campaign was a kindness initiative launched in response to COVID-19, which she reflects on as one of the toughest and most rewarding campaigns she has worked on. Lucy Ibrahim has over 18 years’ experience covering brand strategy, marketing, events and tourism. Prior to working for the City of Ballarat, Lucy served as Head of Marketing at Visit Ballarat, and Managing Director of PLAY communications. Work produced under Lucy’s direction has been recognised at over 15 international and local awards. She has most recently been recognised for the 2020 Ad Campaign of the Year at the Mumbrella Travel Awards for her campaign Made of Ballarat. Lucy is passionate about insight-led creative, efficient execution and measurement to optimise outcomes. Discussed in this episode: Using core principles within government policies to develop clear communications plans Delivering an effective campaign in less than 24 hours Using communications to support residents and provide relief Responding and recovering from the fallout of COVID-19 The nature of work for a communications professional Using hard metrics to measure effectiveness within industry and media sentiment

We are coming into the golden age of communications. Perhaps the most important thing a government can do, is communicate effectively with their citizens. Communicators are the people in control. They make sure that information is available and importantly, accessible, to citizens. The technology has increased the visibility of communications system, but what are the challenges that come with these advances? What are the challenges facing government departments? Where does change comes from in the public sector? In this episode of GovComms, contentgroup Founder and CEO, David Pembroke, is joined by the Head of GovCom Group, Alun Probert. Before heading GovCom Group, Alun spent nine years as the Executive Director of Strategic Communications in the NSW Government, with the responsibility for advertising and digital policy including managing the NSW Governments and Premier’s website, overseeing approval of Government and all advertising campaigns and managing whole of Government media contracts. Alun’s global communication experience spans 25 years. In this conversation from the archive, Alun shares valuable insights on adopting new media and the opportunities within content marketing.    Discussed in this episode: -          Opportunities for content marketing in government - what does success look like? -          Understanding how people consume government media -          Aligning a communication plan to strategic objectives -          Setting ambitions and achieving measurable targets -          Clear communication - removing barriers that connect government to citizens -          The evolution of information and communications technology

In this week’s episode of GovComms, contentgroup Founder and CEO, David Pembroke, sits down with business and technology innovator, Michelle Melbourne, to discuss how technology is impacting the communications. They talk using data to create a personalized experience for your audience, the importance of learning and where technology is headed.   This episode is a must listen for leaders in any sector, with valuable insights into how to harness and use technology in a manageable and workable way.   With 30 years’ experience in government technology, Michelle Melbourne, CoFounder of Australian software maker Intelledox, has a long history delivering better online process for citizens. Michelle evangelized the term Digital Transformation years before it was commonplace, and her company pioneered the use of AI to automate business processes. She has helped many large and complex customers to modernise their processes, and more importantly, to transform their team culture and behaviours to maximize the outcomes for citizens.   In 1998, Michelle started a highly successful technology, communications and logistics company - The Communication Link - working on behalf of corporate and government VIPs from around the world. This involved arranging official visits to Australia by Madeleine Albright for senior U.S Government officials and the management of various Sydney Olympic and Paralympic projects. She is currently a Board Member of Smart Communications, Governor of the ANU Foundation Board and an Entrepreneur In Residence for the Canberra Innovation Network. Discussed in this episode: -       Translating an inspiration into reality -       The importance of understanding technology -       How to apply personalized services to your customers -       Adopting new technology during COVID-19 -       The future public service as automation takes hold and AI matures -       The skills we need to enable digital transformation

From the Archives: This week on #GovComms, we are going back to a very special episode. In 2015, contentgroup Founder and CEO David Pembroke, met with guests Inga Davis and Richa Arora to discuss rebuilding the University of Canberra website. This episode takes us through the whole journey. They tells us how they met their objectives and managed to bring more than 15,000 pages of content under one umbrella. Inga Davis gave this interview on the eve of her last week at University of Canberra. Having spent the last 10 years working her way through the ranks at UC; as a marketing manager, alumni manager, Director of Vice-Chancellor Stephen Parker's Office, Director of Advancement and finishing up as Director Advancement, Marketing and Communications. Working closely with the Vice-Chancellor, Inga has led projects integral to building the University's profile; including the university's 40th anniversary celebrations in 2008, the latest "breakthrough" re-brand, content marketing strategy and most recently an enterprise-wide upgrade of UC's 10,000 page website. A project with 15,000 staff and student users, 50 stakeholder representatives, 25 senior managers and 3 million annual visitors. Richa was the project manager for the redevelopment of University of Canberra's website and closely worked with marketing and content producers on the content strategy for the new website. Richa believes that the aesthetics of a website are important for a friendly user experience, but people visit a website when they need information. The up to date content targeted to its audience is the key to a functional and engaging website.  Richa has worked in public and private sector leading user workshops, stakeholder engagements and managing change and communications. Richa is a specialist in business process analysis, process re-engineering, solution design and implementation and project management. Richa is currently a Deloitte Consulting Manager in Technology Advisory team at Deloitte. Discussed in this episode: -          Operating a website and using a distributed authorship model -          Using health checks to keep websites clean -          SMART website goals -          Website features that engage key stakeholders -          Optimising a website for social media and mobile -          The value of having an excellent project manager

The internet has changed the way we consume content, has it also impacted the way we advertise? In this week’s episode of GovComms contentgroup Founder and CEO, David Pembroke, sits down with industry leader, Bob Hoffman, to discuss how traditional advertising remains the primary income for internet platforms such as Facebook. Bob Hoffman is the author of five bestselling books about advertising. He is one of the world’s most sought-after speaker on (this topic/subject) advertising and marketing. Indeed, one of his books, ‘Bad Men: How Advertising Went From A Minor Annoyance To A Major Menace’ exposed many of the dangerous data abuse practices that are leading to a re-evaluation of the role of the major platforms around the world. Discussed in this episode: ·       Transformation of media and advertising ·       Using creative methods to create strategic advertising campaigns ·       Eroding of local media platforms ·       Dominant major advertising platforms ·       Is antitrust on the backburner? ·       The future of traditional paid advertising  

Fresh from the Archives Russell Grossman wears many hats; he is Director of Communications at the Office of Rail and Road, Head of Government Internal Communications Profession for the UK Government and Director at Engage For Success. In this episode from the archives, Russell Grossman and David Pembroke discuss the best practices in government communication. We hear about Russell’s experience as Director of Group Communications at the UK Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, as well as International Chair of the IABC and Director of Engage for Success. Discussed in this episode: ·       Maximising communications budgets ·       Using a project management approach to reform communications ·       Creating long-term marketing strategies ·       Strong bold leadership and sharp project management ·       Adapting to digital platforms

A communications professional with more than 15 years of experience working in busy and demanding media relations and communications environments, Farooq has a range of experience having worked both in the public and voluntary sector.  Having trained as a journalist, during his career in UK Government he has been media adviser to several UK Prime Ministers and senior ministers. Farooq has led teams and delivered high-profile communications campaigns for key government domestic policies including the major housing building programme, a review of the public broadcaster BBC and controversial reforms to teachers’ pay and pensions. He has also dealt with international issues such as the UK’s military operations in Afghanistan and was part of the UK Government Olympics Communications team for London in 2012. Farooq led the crisis communications response for UK Government following the tragic Grenfell Tower fire, where he led a team of 40 plus professionals to deliver an effective communications strategy.  Having recently relocated to Sydney, he brings this wealth of experience to his current role supporting Transport for NSW with its communications response to the current Coronavirus outbreak. Discussed in this episode: A human-centric approach to government communications Farooq's advice on crisis management The importance of planning The current state of government communications Developing evidence-based communications Building trust - being accurate and realistic Measurement and evaluation

Fresh from the Archives Gina is a senior digital marketing professional with successful experience in product management, social media strategy and integrated marketing campaigns for the City of Bryan. In addition, Gina has also developed brand ambassador and employee ambassador programs online to reinforce branding goals, drive loyalty and amplify the message.  Working for the City of Bryan, she has put her non-government experience to work to boost economic development, city programs, and tourism across all online channels. In addition to marketing, she serves as the PIO for the City of Bryan and Bryan Texas Utilities. Discussed in this episode:  A grass-roots approach to content The essentials of content marketing  How content marketing served the City of Bryan Gina's advice for government communicators 

Tony Bradford is the co-founder and Managing Director of the Centre for Corporate Health, an organisation that specialises in helping workplaces of all shapes and sizes to better manage mental health, psychological safety and workplace stress. Originally a country boy from the Riverina, he ran away from home and joined the Navy at the age of 17 and started his career as a navigation officer driving ships and patrol boats. Fascinated by what happens in workplaces and the dysfunction and stress that often results, he developed his passion for understanding and transforming workplace cultures especially through building leadership capability. Following his service in the Navy and a short stint with EY’s change management consultancy division in the late 90’s, Tony has spent the past 20 years consulting to organisations of all shapes and sizes and industries, including Government. Rachel Clements is the co-founder and Director of Psychological Services and Principal Organisational Psychologist at the Centre for Corporate Health For over 25 years Rachel has focused on building individual and organisational resilience, and minimising risk of workplace mental health.  She has worked across a range of industries and has carved a niche especially in professional services organisations such as law firms, banking, finance as well as government (at all levels). Rachel is often the go-to subject matter expert when it comes to workplace mental health and is a regular keynote presenter at national and international conferences. Rachel is frequently consulted by media organisations from around the world and is regular contributor to the Huffington Post Discussed in this episode: Characteristics of a mental health conscious organisation The biggest predictor of workplace wellbeing The impacts of isolation Preparing for the 'new normal' Why Australia leads the way in workplace wellbeing Why 'givers' do better than 'takers' during a crisis Tony and Rachel's advice for staying mentally well