GovComms: The Future of Government Communication

AI is shaking up the world of communications—are you ready? In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke sits down with PR expert Stephen Waddington to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the way we work. From streamlining tasks to offering new ways to tackle big challenges, Stephen explains how AI can act as a "clerk, colleague, and coach" for communicators.However, it’s not all smooth sailing. They dig into the risks, the need for ethical governance, and why every organisation needs clear policies to stay ahead. Stephen also shares his thoughts on the shifting media landscape, the growing influence of niche communities, and what it means for how governments connect with citizens.Hear about Socially Mobile, the not-for-profit PR school empowering diverse professionals to lead in the industry. Whether you're a government communicator, public sector leader, or PR professional, this is a must-listen for anyone looking to future-proof their role in an evolving industry.Discussed in this episode:AI in communications transforming workflowsEthical governance and responsible AI adoptionShifting media landscape and niche communitiesAI applications for communication professionalsFutureproofing by adapting to changesSocially Mobile supporting diverse professionalsShow notes:The Use of AI in Corporate Communications and Public Relations | Wadds Inc.Invisible Rulers | Renee DiRestaThe not-for-profit PR school | Socially MobileCo-Intelligence: An AI Masterclass with Ethan Mollick | Stanford BusinessResearch & Reports | Wadds Inc.GovComms Podcast | Blog Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if leadership was less about authority and more about connection?Imagine a young boy in rural Zimbabwe, discovering the world through books borrowed from a modest village library. That boy is Alfred Chidembo, whose love for stories sparked a journey from his village to Australia, where he now serves in the Australian Public Service and leads a literacy charity, Aussie Books for Zim.In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke explores how the Ubuntu philosophy—“I am because we are”—has guided Alfred’s life and work. Alfred shares how empathy, storytelling, and genuine connection are at the heart of his mission. He also discusses how these values can enhance communication in government by fostering trust, understanding, and community engagement. It’s a heartfelt look at how empathy, flexibility, and the stories we tell can create lasting change. This episode is for anyone who believes that by lifting others, we all rise together.Discussed in this episode:Ubuntu philosophy and leadership through empathyPower of storytelling in connectionFounding Aussie Books for Zim charityBuilding relationships in public serviceOvercoming challenges with resilienceEnhancing government communication with trust Show notes:Aussie Books for ZimUbuntu | Alfred ChidemboUbuntu Philosphy | The CollectorLiteracy: the greatest treasure of all |TEDx Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As cities around the world grapple with a wave of disinformation, how can they fight back and restore public trust? In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke sits down with Ika Trijsburg, leader of the Disinformation in the City project, to tackle this urgent question. Ika unveils the Global Response Playbook, a powerful toolkit designed to help cities counter false information at a local level. She walks us through its three-phase approach—pre-empting, pre-bunking, and debunking—and shows how cities can become hubs of trust and resilience.Drawing on many years of experience in city diplomacy and local government, Ika shares stories and insights on why disinformation impacts every layer of city life, from elected officials to public service teams. With her unique perspective, Ika emphasises the power of collaboration and the critical role cities play in protecting their communities. Full of actionable insights and real optimism, this episode is a must-listen for government communicators and public sector leaders who are ready to step up in the fight against disinformation.Discussed in this episode:How disinformation challenges local governments and impacts public trust.A three-phase strategy to tackle disinformation.Why cities are well-positioned to address disinformation where people experience policy firsthand.The importance of community-focused strategies to build trust and counter disinformation.Partnerships within and beyond government strengthen resilience to disinformation.How cities worldwide can share strategies and amplify impact through diplomatic collaboration.Show notes:Disinformation in the City Response Playbook | University of MelbourneDisinformation in the City Project | University of MelbourneMelbourne Centre for Cities | University of Melbourne Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when disaster strikes?In this second-part episode of the GovComms Podcast, crisis communication expert Michael Player shares his experiences managing some of New Zealand’s most significant crises, including the Rena oil spill and Pike River mining disaster. Michael gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how he led teams through media storms, community unrest, and logistical challenges in the heart of chaos.Michael reveals the strategies that helped him succeed under pressure—building strong communication teams, adapting plans in real time, and working closely with local communities. His stories showcase the power of collaboration and the human side of crisis management.As crises become more common, how can we be better prepared? Michael discusses the need for frequent training and the importance of involving communities in recovery efforts. Whether you're in government communication or just curious, this episode offers key insights into managing chaos and building trust when it matters most.Discussed in this episode:· Managing communication during disasters· Assembling strong, adaptable crisis teams.· Community involvement in disaster recovery efforts.· Frequent tabletop exercises for crisis prep.· Balancing media demands and operational focus.· Collaborating across government and local agencies. Show notes:- Tragedy at Pike River Mine – Rebecca Macfie- The Rena grounding | NZ GOV- Pike River | NZ GOV Royal Commission- Exercise and Preparedness Tools | FEMA Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.