GovComms: The Future of Government Communication

Is your comms team keeping up, or just keeping busy?In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke sits down with Mitchell Dye, the dynamic voice behind the City of Greater Geelong’s external communications. From community radio to leading digital strategy, Mitchell shares a front-row view of how local government is reinventing the way it engages with citizens—one authentic story at a time.David and Mitchell unpack what it takes to stand out in the crowded digital landscape, why the best communicators aren’t always in the comms team, and how to build trust through relatable, local voices. With fresh insights from years of hands-on experience, Mitchell offers a practical roadmap for future-proofing local government communication.Discussed in this episode:Reinventing comms in local governmentAuthentic storytelling vs polished brandingWhat community radio taught Mitchell about public commsFinding trusted voices beyond the comms teamManaging 24/7 comms without burning outShow notes:Planner | Microsoft94.7 The Pulse | Geelong Community RadioBlog | GovComms Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How will AI reshape the future of government communications—and what skills will you need to thrive?In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke is joined by Wayne Aspland, expert in public sector communication and AI strategy, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the role of communicators today and into 2030.Wayne shares how government teams can build AI capability, drive strategic alignment, and stay trusted in an era of rapid technological change. He also explains why human creativity, leadership, and critical thinking will be even more essential as automation accelerates.Discussed in this episode:How AI is reshaping communication rolesAchieving alignment across complex teamsBuilding AI skills as a teamManaging AI risks with clear guardrailsShow notes:Day in the life of a comms person in 2030 | Wayne AsplandState of the Sector report | GallagherBlog | GovComms Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when your council loses public trust—and you’re the one answering the questions?In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke speaks with Chloe Casey, Manager of Communications and Corporate Governance at the City of Casey, about leading through the fallout of the Operation Sandon investigation.Chloe shares how her team managed misinformation, community confusion, and the absence of elected councillors for almost five years, all while ensuring communications remained clear, composed, and responsive.She also reveals how they’re using AI, short-form video, and cold outreach to connect with the City of Casey, home to one of Australia’s most culturally and linguistically diverse communities. Her insights offer practical guidance for any government communicator navigating through change.Discussed in this episode:Leading through crisis with clarity and speedCombining comms and governance for stronger responsesEngaging CALD communities with targeted outreachUsing AI, video, and plain English to boost impactShow notes:Brolly | Social Media ManagementBlog | GovComms Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the best ideas in your team are the ones you never hear?In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke speaks with Richard Etienne—internal communications expert, author of The Introvert’s Survival Guide, and founder of The Introvert Space. Together, they explore how introverts can lead, influence, and thrive in workplaces that often reward volume over value.From overcoming self-doubt to navigating hybrid work, Richard shares powerful, practical strategies to help introverts find their voice—without having to shout. He also offers advice for leaders on how to build inclusive teams where every personality type can succeed.Whether you identify as an introvert, manage one, or simply want to create more inclusive and effective teams, this episode is packed with eye-opening insights and actionable tips.Discussed in this episode:Why introverts often go unheard—and how to change thatHow to build your personal brand without self-promotionThe hidden strengths introverts bring to leadershipWhat Theresa May taught Richard about quiet influence at the topShow notes:The Introvert Space | Richard EtienneThe Introvert’s Survival Guide | Richard EtienneQuiet | Susan CainBlog | GovComms Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trust is on life support. People are tuning out. Tech is speeding up. Noise is everywhere. So how can government communicators break through?In this powerhouse episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke is joined by Ros Weadman – strategic communication expert, author, and driving force behind the Elevate Local Government Communications Summit 2025 – to unpack what it really takes to cut through and connect in today’s chaotic communication landscape.Ros doesn’t pull punches. With four decades in the game, she makes it clear: the old ways of pushing messages just won’t cut it. It's time to ditch the jargon, lead with heart, and communicate with courage.This is more than an episode—it’s a call to arms for public sector communicators who want to build trust, lead with purpose, and transform how government speaks to the people it serves.Discussed in this episode:How to ditch “message selling” and embrace bold, emotional storytellingThe real reason people feel disconnected—and how to bring them backHow to paint a vision people can believe in (and see themselves in)What’s broken in community engagement—and how to fix itWhy communicators must stop hiding behind process and step up as leadersShow notes:Elevate Local Government Communication Summit | GOVCOMMEvaluation Framework for Strategic Communication | PRIABlog | GovComms Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Google still the king of search or has AI changed the game forever?The way people find information is undergoing the biggest shift in decades and government communicators can’t afford to be left behind. In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke speaks with Jim Stewart, CEO of Stewart Media, about the seismic shift in digital search and what it means for public sector communication.A 25-year SEO veteran, Jim explains why this transformation is as significant as the birth of the internet and how government agencies can stay visible in AI-driven searches. From optimising government websites for AI-driven platforms to ensuring search bots can access critical public information, Jim breaks down the practical strategies to stay ahead.This isn’t just another tech trend – it’s a fundamental shift in how people find and use information. If you're in government communications, you can’t afford to ignore it. Tune in now to learn how to keep your content discoverable, credible and ready for the AI era.Discussed in this episode:Learn how AI is reshaping search and SEO strategies.Discover why government communicators must adapt to AI search.Find out how to keep public sector content visible online.Expert tips on optimising websites for AI bots.Explore AI tools that enhance communication and accessibility.Understand the future of government messaging in the AI era.Show notes:NotebookLM | GoogleChatGPT | OpenAITrends | GoogleHow Robots.txt works | GoogleBeyond Google: Mastering Search in A World Of AI Assistants | Jim StewartWebsite | StewArt MediaBlog | GovComms Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Great communicators aren’t born—they’re made.In this episode of GovComms, host David Pembroke chats with Dr. Louise Mahler, an expert in leadership communication, about the art of presence, authenticity, and confidence. With a background in business and opera, Louise brings a unique perspective to what makes a great communicator—and why government professionals need to master these skills.Louise shares practical techniques to improve public speaking, from voice control and body language to storytelling and audience engagement. She explains the power of the "rule of three", how to structure compelling messages, and why good communication starts with breathing and body awareness.Whether you’re presenting to stakeholders, leading a team, or engaging the public, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you command attention and build trust. If you want to captivate, connect, and communicate with impact, this is the masterclass you need.Discussed in this episode:Gravitas builds trust through presence, authenticity, and confidence.Strong delivery relies on voice, body language, and gestures.The rule of three makes messages clear and memorable.Overcome self-doubt with mantras and better posture.Storytelling, humour, and connection keep audiences engaged.Breathing and structure improve communication impact. Show notes:Website | Louise MahlerGravitas | Louise MahlerThe 5 Canons of Classical Rhetoric | ThoughtCoThe Rule of 3 | Leadership GardenGovComms Podcast | Blog Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Governments generate endless information, but so much of it goes unseen. So, how do we turn it into content people actually care about?In this episode of GovComms, David Pembroke chats with Heather Lansdowne, a leader in transforming social media in government. As the social media manager at the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Heather and her team are turning heads in the government space, proving that data can be engaging, relatable, and even fun. She’s helped reshape how agencies communicate, bringing bold ideas and engaging content to the table. Her fresh approach connects with audiences in ways traditional comms never could.From navigating government approvals to making stats go viral, Heather shares how agencies can rethink their content strategy. She talks about building trust with leadership, using humour to engage audiences, and why governments need to act more like digital publishers. Whether you're a social media pro or a government communicator looking to push boundaries, this episode is full of insights, strategies, and inspiration to help you create content that truly connects.Discussed in this episode:Making government content engaging by turning reports into stories.Building trust with leadership to get buy-in for social strategies.Using humour to make statistics fun and relatable.Navigating approvals while staying compliant.Exploring social media trends in government.Showcasing ABS’s social media success.Show notes:Data Release Calendar | ABSGraphic Design App | CanvaSocial media | ABSGovComms Podcast | BlogTranscript:A transcript of this episode can be found here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Buckle up for an episode packed with creativity, innovation, and a bit of storytelling magic!In this first GovComms Podcast of 2025, David Pembroke sits down with Andrew Parsons, a communication powerhouse with a knack for turning challenges into storytelling gold. From his humble beginnings as a cameraman to transforming public sector communication strategies, Andrew’s career is proof that creativity thrives when bold ideas meet action.Step into the evolving world of public sector content as Andrew reveals how he built massive social media followings, pioneered video content, and ran communication teams like newsrooms—fast, fearless, and focused. He’ll also share why 2025 is the year for governments to embrace new technology, leverage podcasts, and connect with citizens like never before.Packed with practical tips and fresh perspectives, this episode will leave you inspired to level up your content strategy.Discussed in this episode:Turning challenges into powerful stories.Why 2025 is the perfect time to rethink your content strategy.The secret to building trust and support for bold communication ideas.Running comms teams like newsrooms—speed and creativity in action.Andrew’s journey from behind the camera to leading communication innovation.Show notes:Water’s Edge – The Podcast | IGWCGovComms Podcast | Blog Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we’re revisiting one of the most impactful episodes of GovComms! Stephanie Speck, Head of Communications for the Green Climate Fund, shares how authentic storytelling can transform the climate conversation.Explore the power of "Story Sovereignty," a revolutionary approach that empowers climate-impacted communities to tell their own stories—humanising the issue and making it deeply relatable. Stephanie also takes us inside the Green Climate Fund’s evolution, shifting from output-focused tactics to strategies that prioritise reputation, relationships, and global impact.She doesn’t stop there. Tackling the challenge of misinformation, Stephanie reveals practical ways to counter false narratives, build trust, and foster consensus in the fight against climate change. Whether it’s your first listen or a revisit, this episode is packed with actionable insights to inspire meaningful climate communication.Discussed in this episode:Co-designing climate strategiesLeveraging AI for efficiencyAddressing misinformation challengesBuilding trust through transparencyEmpowering authentic storytellingStrengthening stakeholder collaborationShow notes:Stephanie Speck | LinkedInGovComms Podcast | Blog Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.