New Solutions to Old Problems- AI Readiness and Prioritisation at the Cutting-Edge
​Emerging Technologies like artificial intelligence are rapidly reshaping public sector capabilities, but successful adoption requires a strategic approach that balances innovation with governance. This roundtable will explore how AI can serve as a model for emerging technology adoption, providing insights into early-adopter vs. fast-follower strategies, risk mitigation, and long-term workforce readiness.

Building on the insights from our November Responsible AI discussion, this session will focus on:

• Trustworthy AI and Government-Led Adoption – Embedding transparency, accountability, and governance into AI initiatives.
• Upskilling the Public Sector Workforce – Preparing government employees for AI-integrated workflows.
• Practical AI Use Cases and Pilots – Exploring high-value AI applications, from compliance monitoring to predictive analytics.
• Policy and Governance Frameworks – Developing scalable, responsible AI governance models across agencies.

Beyond AI, the discussion will examine what these lessons mean for other emerging technologies on our periphery. Participants will explore practical methods for the safe integration of new technologies into public sector systems, focusing on frameworks that prioritise risk mitigation, policy alignment, and transition from proof-of-concept to scalable solutions.

This roundtable is designed for government executives, technologists, and policy leaders seeking actionable strategies for AI adoption while laying the groundwork for broader emerging technology readiness.
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Data, Digital, and the Public Good: The Proficiency of Analytics in a Digitalised Government

The public sector is increasingly recognising that big data and analytics are not just tools for internal efficiency—they are powerful drivers for improving citizen outcomes. Yet the challenge of bridging the gap between digital and data professions to access relevant expertise and employ cutting-edge tools remains significant.

This roundtable will provide real-world examples of how cross-functional data and digital teams can collaborate to solve pressing societal challenges. Participants will examine what differentiates advanced analytics from predictive models, exploring how these tools can be combined with the latest advancements in AI and machine learning to enable real-time decision-making. These capabilities will improve the government's ability to respond to emerging issues, from crisis management to proactive citizen service delivery.

In addition to these high-level innovations, the session will emphasise data fundamentals such as quality, linkage, and literacy. Attendees will explore how robust data governance and proper infrastructure enable agencies to integrate analytics seamlessly into digital services. By ensuring decision-makers across digital, information, and technology domains are equipped with the necessary data skills, participants will leave with actionable strategies to deliver more targeted, proactive, and connected public services—maximising both efficiency and citizen impact.
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Securing the Future: Resilient Government and Connected Cyber Ecosystems

As digital transformation accelerates, the public sector’s reliance on data and technology has exposed critical vulnerabilities in cyber security. Government agencies must not only protect sensitive information but also build cyber resilience to safeguard public trust and ensure the continuous operation of essential services. However, the complexity of integrating advanced cyber security measures, while managing existing infrastructure, presents an ongoing challenge.

This roundtable will explore strategic approaches to cyber resilience, focusing on risk-based approaches to enhance the security posture of public sector IT systems. Participants will delve into real-world examples of how cross-sector collaborations have fortified government defences against cyber threats. This knowledge exchange will illustrate how public sector leaders can leverage the latest research in cyber security, data privacy, and threat intelligence to prevent and mitigate the impact of cyber-attacks.

Before we get too far into advanced defence mechanisms, the session will address the importance of foundational practices such as data protection, encryption, and the adoption of secure cloud technologies. Attendees will also explore frameworks for improving cyber literacy across public sector organisations, ensuring that every level of the workforce is equipped to identify and respond to potential security risks.

By integrating these advanced and fundamental cyber security practices, public sector leaders will be better prepared to balance operational efficiency with the highest standards of data privacy and security, building cyber resilient frameworks that not only protect government systems but also foster public confidence.
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Digital service delivery is no longer just about going online—it’s about transforming how governments design, deliver, and evolve services to meet the needs of a rapidly changing society. This roundtable will focus on breaking down silos and building interconnected, future-ready systems that improve outcomes for citizens while empowering public sector agencies to adapt, innovate, and thrive.

The discussion will hinge on building the digital capability and maturity required to address gaps in readiness across agencies. Key themes include the importance of continuous learning and workforce upskilling as critical components of future-proofing public service delivery.

Participants will explore innovative concepts such as life event-based service integration and "digital co-pilots," showcasing how agencies can collaborate to create citizen-centric services tailored to significant life events. These approaches simplify interactions and improve user experiences through citizen-first design principles that prioritise trust, inclusivity, and intuitive services. Attendees will evaluate models like the “consumer standard” as a guide for delivering equitable, user-centric public services.

As the globalisation of digital tools accelerates, the session will also address strategies for ensuring domestic digital sovereignty—retaining control and expertise over critical digital infrastructure while balancing global collaboration with the imperative to safeguard national resilience.

This roundtable offers a unique opportunity for public sector leaders to engage with peers and private sector innovators to co-create actionable solutions. By bridging technological ambition with practical frameworks, attendees will leave equipped to drive productivity, enhance citizen experiences, and build a resilient digital future for government.

Capabilities for Responsible AI: Technology, Services, and Policy of an Agentic Government

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a key driver of innovation, with 62% of senior government executives in our Australian Research Innovation Council identifying it as a critical area for cross-sector collaboration. As AI tools proliferate across technology and digital services, the Australian Public Sector must strategically embrace AI’s potential to enhance operational efficiency, improve policy outcomes, and provide high-quality service delivery for citizens.

In the context of responsible AI adoption, government agencies are uniquely positioned to lead by example. The safe and ethical use of AI, in line with the latest DTA Policy for Responsible AI in Government, underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of AI integration, balancing innovation with community trust and public transparency.

This roundtable offers a platform to not only explore the capabilities required to support responsible AI deployment but also to uncover the true research needs and gaps in the public sector that could be alleviated through collaborative efforts with academia. Identifying these needs will enable a more targeted approach to developing governance frameworks, accountability standards, and adaptive methods to future-proof AI in public service delivery.

This session provides an opportunity for public sector leaders to address challenges, share insights, and co-create strategies for leveraging AI to deliver citizen-centric outcomes while upholding the highest standards of ethical governance and fostering a research-driven approach to addressing sector-specific issues.
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