Australian Government Data Summit 2025 Full Event Agenda
- 1 - 3 April 2025
- National Convention Centre Canberra
Tuesday, 1 April 2025
Wednesday, 2 April 2025
Thursday, 3 April 2025
Tuesday, 1 April 2025
Overview:
This workshop explores how effective data management serves as the bedrock for driving business improvements. Attendees will delve into key aspects of enterprise data management, focusing on data quality, metrics for measuring success, and strategies for mapping and understanding their organisation’s information landscape. By understanding the core principles of data management, participants will gain valuable insights on how to leverage data to boost operational efficiency, improve decision-making, and achieve long-term business goals.
Key Learning Takeaways:
- Understanding enterprise data management: Learn what effective data management looks like and how it can elevate business performance.
- Importance of data quality: Discover why maintaining high data quality is crucial for success and the common pitfalls to avoid.
- Measuring enterprise improvement: Gain practical knowledge on setting meaningful metrics to assess progress and improvement in data management initiatives.
- Mapping your information landscape: Learn how to effectively document and understand your organisation’s data landscape to identify gaps and opportunities for enhancement.
Workshop Leaders:
Sarah Lauder
Director, Data and Information Management
Anchoram Consulting
Mr. Andrew Smailes
Enterprise Data Specialist
DAMA Canberra Branch
Dr. Jonathan Gray
Lead Partner
Anchoram Consulting
Overview:
This workshop focuses on how to make data governance an actionable and integral part of your organisation’s operations. Attendees will explore the critical role of data governance in achieving AI readiness and learn how to align data governance practices with business goals. The session will also examine the growing importance of the Chief Data Scientist role in shaping an organisation’s data strategy and fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making
Key Learning Takeaways:
- Data governance for AI readiness: Understand how effective data management and governance are essential for preparing your organisation for AI integration and future technological advancements.
- The role of the Chief Data Scientist: Learn about the pivotal role a Chief Data Scientist plays in driving data governance, ensuring data quality, and influencing strategic decision-making.
- Operationalising data governance: Gain practical insights into how to implement and enforce data governance policies that align with your organisation’s goals and objectives.
- Building a data-driven culture: Explore strategies for fostering a culture that prioritizes data quality, security, and governance across all levels of the organisation.
Workshop Leaders:
Sarah Lauder
Director, Data and Information Management
Anchoram Consulting
Mr. Andrew Smailes
Enterprise Data Specialist
DAMA Canberra Branch
Dr. Jonathan Gray
Lead Partner
Anchoram Consulting
Wednesday, 2 April 2025
Permenthri Pillay
Partner, Government and Public Sector Business Tranformers, Digital Transformation
EY Australia
The Hon Paul Fletcher MP
Manager of Opposition Business in the House
Shadow Minister for Government Services and the Digital Economy, and Shadow Minister for Science and the Arts
- Government’s approach by providing baseline requirements on governance, assurance and transparency of AI
- Strengthening public trust in government’s use of AI by providing enhanced transparency, governance and risk assurance
- Addressing the importance of ensuring AI systems are free from biases that could lead to discrimination
Lucy Poole
General Manager Strategy, Planning and Performance Division
Digital Transformation Agency
- Understanding how to collect, analyze, and interpret data to harness the power of AI technologies
- Rethinking of education and training programs to ensure that students and workers are equipped with the skills needed to succeed in
the AI era
- Exploring how data and digital leaders from the Australian Public Service are driving innovation to enhance citizen outcomes
- Examining the critical role of data and technology in building a smarter, more responsive government that meets the evolving
expectations of citizens - Balancing citizen expectations, emerging technologies, and operational demands
- Strengthening data security and privacy to uphold public trust
- Collaborating with industry leaders to drive innovation and expertise in digital transformation
Permenthri Pillay
Partner, Government and Public Sector Business Transformation, Digital Transformation
EY Australia
- Ensuring your data and
analytics strategy
supports cross –
government and
organisational priorities
for cohesive policy
implementation and
enhanced
responsiveness - Developing a strategic
approach to data
analytics while
maintaining the agility to
adapt to evolving
organisational priorities
and public needs
- Understanding your
organisation’s current
data landscape to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities - Developing a data
strategy that aligns to
overall business
outcomes - Enabling a data-driven culture across all levels of your organisation to elevate data in the public sector
Dr Andrew Taylor
Assistant Secretary Strategy and Delivery
Office of the National Data Commissioner
Liz Daykin
Investment Data Governance Lead
Australian Retirement Trust
President
DAMA Australia
- Effectively harness automation and AI technologies while
upholding ethical standards to drive purpose-driven data and analytics solutions - Cultivating a data culture rooted in transparency and
responsibility, ensuring that data and AI are used for the public good - Navigating complex ethical challenges and establish frameworks that protect data
privacy and promote
responsible AI use
Ben Taylor
Assistant Commissioner, Data Insights Delivery
Australian Taxation Office
- Identifying key areas
where AI can drive the
most value in government operations - Collaboration across
departments to ensure AI adoption is cohesive and organisation-wide - Mitigating biases in AI models to promote fairness and accountability
Andrew Morrison
Chief Technology Officer
EY Australian
- Methods for decentralising data governance to reduce
workload and maximise results - Key strategies for
cultivating a data-driven culture that promotes collaboration around data - Best practices for sharing data to support citizen
services while
maintaining trust and
transparency
Sam Spencer
CEO and Information
Security Officer
Aristotle Metadata
- Outlining the Australian
government’s current
cybersecurity policies,
including legislative
measures and public-private partnerships - Overview of the most
prevalent cyber threats facing Australia today, including ransomware, phishing
attacks, and data breaches - Equipping our government
organisations with stronger
cyber resilience - Collaboration among
government, private sector and international partners to enhancing cybersecurity posture through
LTGEN Michelle McGuinness CSC
Affairs, National Cyber Security Coordinator
Department of Home Affairs
- Identifying how AI
technologies can be used
by malicious actors to
create sophisticated
cyber threats, such as
automated attacks and
deepfakes - Addressing ethical
concerns and privacy
issues related to the use
of AI in cybersecurity,
including data protection
and algorithmic biases - Developing the
necessary skills and
expertise within the
cybersecurity workforce
to effectively manage and
mitigate AI-related risks
Take advantage of this engaging peer-to-peer networking experience aimed at fostering meaningful connections. Enjoy relaxed conversations that encourage open dialogue and collaboration as you share insights, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships with fellow data professionals. Participate in structured 10-minute rotations in our dedicated meeting zone, designed to facilitate both learning and networking.
- Bringing leadership on the journey to build a data culture from the top down
- Identifying missed
opportunities to involve executives in data projects beyond decision making, budgeting, and reporting - Understanding the
difference between
developing data informed cultures versus data driven ones - Developing innovative
strategies to engage
leaders in the data
journey and foster a data driven culture
Mike Lau
Chief Data & Analytics Officer
Australian Digital Health Agency
Dr. Tania Churchill
Chief Data & Analytics Officer
Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission
Duncan Young
Chief Data Officer and Head of Health Economics and Research
Department of Health and Aged Care
- Breaking down data silos
to reduce risks of
inconsistency, security
breaches, and
compliance challenges - Implementing integrated
data management
systems for seamless
sharing across agencies - Ensuring data accuracy
through validation, regular audits, and standardized formats for consistent, reliable insights
Kayelle Drinkwater
Chief Data Officer &
General Manager, Analysis
& Insights Division
Department of Industry,
Science and Resources
- Driving engagement and adoption of self-serve data platforms
- Overcoming obstacles to democratisation including access, data literacy, and interoperability
- Building the reputation of your data organisation as
a strategic enabler
Katherine Boicuic
Chief Technology and Innovation Officer
EY Australia
- Understanding your data maturity stage and what specific
steps needed to progress - Implementing data governance, foster cross-functional collaboration, and enhance data infrastructure for sustained maturity development
- Promoting data literacy and securing leadership buy-in to
drive a culture of data-driven decision-making across all
organisational levels - Exploring how modern tools,
such as AI, cloud computing, and automation, can help scale - Future-proofing your data strategy by embracing new technologies, staying agile, and continuously evolving to meet the demands of a data-driven environment
Paul Robards
Chief Data Integration Officer
Department of Defence
- Navigating the rapidly
evolving technological
landscape with strategic AI integration - Driving innovation and shaping ethical frameworks in the age of AI
- Enhancing collaboration
between IT and cyber
teams for shared success - Developing critical skills and responsibilities to
propel organisations into an AI-driven future
Shikha Sharma
Chief Information Officer & Director Business Improvement Technology
Department of Human Services SA
- Building an effective data
architecture foundation to
harness the power of AI - Enabling uninterrupted
data access for front
office teams while
allowing IT to transition to
the cloud at their pace - Incorporating best
practices from agencies
that have successfully
adopted AI-driven logical
data architecture
- Aligning data and digital strategies with your organisation’s overall mission and long-term objectives to ensure cohesive, impactful initiatives
- Overcoming challenges such as data silos, resistance to change, and technological limitations, along with strategies to address them
- Lessons learned from
organisations that have navigated complex data and digital transformations, including key factors that led to successful outcomes and pitfalls to avoid
Rebecca Ostergaard
Chief Digital Officer
CSIRO
- Strategies for identifying and mitigating new vulnerabilities
as technology and threat landscapes evolve - Crafting and recrafting cyber security risk plans
- Developing and testing
incident response to ensure preparedness and effective response in case of cyber incidents - Cultivating a security
conscious culture across organisations involved in managing critical infrastructure
Heidi Hutchison
Assistant Director-General, Cyber Uplift
Australian Cyber Security Centre Australian Signals Directorate
- Setting up transparent and efficient communication
methods between public and private sectors to ensure
timely information sharing and coordinated responses - Leveraging collective
expertise and resources to enhance resilience against evolving cyber threats - Developing and implementing
shared frameworks and protocols that streamline collaborative efforts and enhance consistency in addressing public concerns
Helge Janicke
Deputy CEO, Research Director
Cyber Security Cooperative Research Centre
- Defining data mesh, its purpose, and best practices for successful implementation
- Establishing the benefits and differentiate it from other modern data architectures
- Devising an implementation plan for your data mesh initiative, uncovering effective methods to overcome potential roadblock
- How Service NSW built a comprehensive data catalog to uncover hidden data assets and maximize their value
- Democratising access to data by building a universal analytics platform
- Transforming data into knowledge through a wide rollout of actionable analytics for all teams
- Strategies to empower teams to interpret analytics reports effectively and drive real-time responses through structured metric reviews
Andrew Spiegelman
Head of Data Analytics
Service NSW
- Ensuring compliance with GDPR by mastering data sovereignty requirements
- Overcoming key challenges in managing data sovereignty across the EU
- Staying ahead of regulatory demands by understanding essential GDPR data sovereignty obligations
- Safeguarding EU citizens’ data with robust protection, no matter where it’s processed or stored, building trust and reducing risk
This roundtable discussion offers a unique chance to engage with data peers, sharing common challenges and best practices on a topic of your choice. Each of the ten roundtables will be co-hosted by a technology expert and a government data leader, ensuring meaningful and insightful conversations. At the end of the day, facilitators will present a summary of the key findings to the entire group, allowing all participants to benefit from the collective insights.
1
Data Talent and Workforce Planning
Develop strategies to close skill gaps in the data workforce and ensure a pipeline of capable talent in APS
2
Data Driven Culture, Data Sharing and Accessibility
Practical approaches for promoting data sharing and collaboration among di erent government departments and agencies, considering the diverse data governance structures and regulations?
3
AI Tools & Emerging Technologies
Explore cutting-edge AI tools, create tailored implementation plans, and apply best practices to optimise organisational performance and outcomes.
4
Optimising Data Cloud & Storage Solutions
Leverage advanced data storage and cloud platforms, integrating security protocols to safeguard sensitive information e ectively.
5
Data Governance & Risk Management
Implement robust data governance frameworks, develop risk audit methodologies, and ensure compliance with regulations to maintain data integrity.
6
Ethics & Regulation in AI
Establish ethical guidelines for AI development, ensuring adherence to regulatory frameworks and promoting responsible AI usage.
7
Selecting the Right Data Solutions
Identify and implement data solutions that drive informed decision-making and improve overall efficiency
8
Enhancing Data Sharing Across Agencies
Strengthen data-sharing practices across government agencies to improve collaboration and outcomes.
9
Data Governance & Security
Reinforce data governance and security measures to ensure regulatory compliance and mitigate risks
Join us for an exclusive Networking Dinner at The Boat House Canberra on 2nd April 2025 at 7:00 PM. End your Summit day with a fine dining experience alongside your peers in a stunning lakeside setting.
Nestled along the scenic banks of Lake Burley Griffin, The Boat House promises more than just a meal—it’s a culinary journey in an unforgettable venue.
Seats are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so reserve your spot now to secure this premier networking opportunity!
Thursday, 3 April 2025
Jo Talbot
Manager of Data Governance
Australian Communications and Media Authority
Alison Rose
Chief of Space Division
Geoscience Australia
- More insight, less effort – Building digital architectures to turn information into actionable insights
- Know your audience – understanding what you want to say and to who
- Developing an effective process that will ensure quality data visuals
- Understanding what visuals work best for different data types
- How data-driven decision-making can stimulate economic development by identifying growth sectors and optimising resource allocation
- Importance of real-time data access in enhancing service delivery and decision-making processes
- Highlighting successful collaborations between state governments to promote data-sharing initiatives and develop innovative solutions
- Measurement frameworks used by state governments to assess their data strategies
Rai Fergusson
Chief Digital & Data Officer
Infrastructure Australia
Jason Owusu
Chief of Data & Digital
Department of Transport & Planning
Andrew Spiegelman
Head of Data & Analytics
Service NSW
Gabrielle Rus
Senior Data Analyst
Australian Taxation Office
In a joint initiative between the APS Commission and DAMA Australia, the Data Cadets program is designed to attract, develop, and support individuals entering data-related roles within the APS. This program offers a comprehensive pathway for emerging talent, equipping them with the necessary skills to thrive in a variety of data-centric positions, ensuring a strong future workforce for the APS.
Meredith Padgett
Acting Director Growing Data and Digital Employment Pipelines
Australian Public Service Commission
Andrew Smailes
Enterprise Data Specialist
DAMA Canberra Branch
In this session, representatives from leading professional societies will discuss how they support individuals in advancing their data and digital careers. The panel will also explore key challenges facing data professionals today and in the future, providing insights into career development, skills enhancement, and navigating the evolving data landscape.
Data Analytics and AI in Public Service Decision Making
Liz Daykin
Investment Data Governance Lead
Australian Retirement Trust
President
DAMA Australia
- How advancements in data access and validation have led to a new era of analytical models
- Use cases how data analytics improved public service delivery and outcomes
Dr. Lance Emerson
Deputy Secretary, eHealth Division
Department of Health
- Learning how AI can streamline government operations, reducing manual tasks and improving efficiency in public service delivery
- Deploying AI ethically in government to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability, fostering trust
with citizens - Strategies for faster AI
implementation - Enhancing data-driven decision-making, allowing government agencies to allocate resources more effiectively and respond to challenges more quickly
- How AI can help governments stay competitive in the digital era, improving productivity while adhering to evolving standards and policies
Vinicius Cardoso
CTO ANZ , Head of Solutions Engineering
Cloudera
CIO Leadership Driving Data-Driven Innovation
- Human Services journey from traditional to data-driven
- Enabling data accessibility supported by effective data integration and cloud infrastructure, is key to fostering innovation and improving client outcomes
- Optimising IT architecture to modernise and scale IT infrastructure, including data lakes, data warehouses, and integration platforms, to support the growing demand for real-time data and advanced analytics
Shikha Sharma
Chief Information Officer & Director Business Improvement Technology
Department of Human Services SA
Strengthening Cybersecurity Readiness and Data Privacy
- Data privacy first: Steering AI through regulatory challenges
- Data-driven innovation: A balance act of collaboration and privacy
- Ensuring citizens are aware of and able to exercise their privacy rights to promote trust
Elizabeth Tydd
Commisioner
Australian Office of the Information Commissioner
- Guidance on adopting critical measures like the Essential Eight to enhance security across public sector systems
- Strategies for cultivating cybersecurity awareness and best practices
- Practical steps to improving incident response through information sharing and coordinated efforts across the public sector
- Exploring how organisations can create clear pathways for emerging talent by providing opportunities for skill development, mentorship, and leadership training
- Equipping future leaders with not only technical expertise but also the ability to apply data insights strategically and ethically in a rapidly evolving digital landscape
(This is a facilitated discussions led by data experts offering advice in a collaborative setting for those who are new in the data profession)
Data Analytics and AI in Public Service Decision Making
- Fostering a culture of collaboration and open data sharing
- Reduction in barriers to make data more accessible
- Establishing a strong culture of ethical data standards within the public sector
- How can organisations and governments ensure they use the public data appropriately and ethically for their intended purposes?
Claire Sparke
Group Head, Data Governance and Integration Group
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
Olga Lysenko
Director Enterprise Data Strategy & Governance Management
Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
Nithin Balakrishnan
Director, Data Capability
ACT Government
Adam Clarke
Chief Technology Officer
Logicly
- Unlocking Opportunities –Exploring how generative AI can transform public sector operations and services
- Ensuring Responsible Adoption: Best practices for ethically implementing AI to safeguard public interests and ensure transparency
- Getting Started with Generative AI: Practical steps for initiating and integrating generative AI
Jenny Humphrys
Chief Data Officer
Department of Employment and Workplace Relations
CIO Leadership Driving Data-Driven Innovation
- Data lakes vs. data warehouses – key differences
- Assessing compatibility with current data tools and ecosystems
- Importance of implementing strong security measures to protect sensitive information
- Use cases in the APS
Chris Crozier
Chief Information Officer
Department of Defence
- Clarifying the clear connection between records,information and data
- The Importance of accurate data for effective information
- Aligning technologies and processes for data collection, storage, processing, and record-keeping to optimise efficiency and ensure compliance with business requirements
- The gaps in many governance and transformation initiatives
- Leveraging AI and large language models (LLMs) to extract actionable insights from unstructured data for informed decision-making
- Exploring the risks associated with AI implementation in public data
- Highlighting the benefits of AI in enhancing public service efficiency and effectiveness
Benjamin Lamont
Manager Technology Strategy and Data
Australian Federal Police
Strengthening Cybersecurity Readiness and Data Privacy
- Developing and implementing
an effective cyber security framework to proactively manage risk and continually strengthen protections - How can regular security evaluations and adoption of innovative controls help public sector agencies dynamically
assess maturity and respond to emerging threats? - How can models of
cross-agency and public-private partnership help amplify cyber defenses through shared expertise, streamlined coordination and rapid information exchange? - How can targeted skills development and training
empower cyber professionals to safeguard operations into an uncertain future through
exposure to cutting edge strategies and techniques?
Sadeed Tirmizey
CISO
Seqwater
- What collaborative approaches could help Australia and its partners more effectively coordinate responses to transnational cyber incidents?
- How can we help build stronger cyber defenses and resilience in regional critical infrastructure ecosystems?
- How can Australia shape global technology markets to strengthen security and safety in the technology our governments, businesses and communities use?
Senior Representative
Department of Foreign
Affairs and Trade
- Best practices for linking data assets to enhance decision-making and service outcomes
- The role of data governance in ensuring accuracy, security, and accessibility within the public sector
- Strategies for aligning linked data with whole-of-government objectives while ensuring compliance with data sovereignty and privacy regulations
- Addressing the challenges of data sharing, ownership, and privacy within intergovernmental linked data ecosystems
Greg Italiano
Government Chief Information Officer
Department of the Premier and Cabinet of WA
- Finding opportunities to strengthen implementation of the Framework for the Governance of Indigenous Data
- The importance of collaboration between government bodies, Indigenous organisations, and communities in overcoming challenges
Nattlie Smith (Wiradjuri)
Branch Manager, Strategic Insights
National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA)
Overview:
This workshop explores how effective data management serves as the bedrock for driving business improvements. Attendees will delve into key aspects of enterprise data management, focusing on data quality, metrics for measuring success, and strategies for mapping and understanding their organisation’s information landscape. By understanding the core principles of data management, participants will gain valuable insights on how to leverage data to boost operational efficiency, improve decision-making, and achieve long-term business goals.
Key Learning Takeaways:
- Understanding enterprise data management: Learn what effective data management looks like and how it can elevate business performance.
- Importance of data quality: Discover why maintaining high data quality is crucial for success and the common pitfalls to avoid.
- Measuring enterprise improvement: Gain practical knowledge on setting meaningful metrics to assess progress and improvement in data management initiatives.
- Mapping your information landscape: Learn how to effectively document and understand your organisation’s data landscape to identify gaps and opportunities for enhancement.
Workshop Leaders:
Sarah Lauder
Director, Data and Information Management
Anchoram Consulting
Mr. Andrew Smailes
Enterprise Data Specialist
DAMA Canberra Branch
Dr. Jonathan Gray
Lead Partner
Anchoram Consulting
Overview:
This workshop focuses on how to make data governance an actionable and integral part of your organisation’s operations. Attendees will explore the critical role of data governance in achieving AI readiness and learn how to align data governance practices with business goals. The session will also examine the growing importance of the Chief Data Scientist role in shaping an organisation’s data strategy and fostering a culture of data-driven decision-making
Key Learning Takeaways:
- Data governance for AI readiness: Understand how effective data management and governance are essential for preparing your organisation for AI integration and future technological advancements.
- The role of the Chief Data Scientist: Learn about the pivotal role a Chief Data Scientist plays in driving data governance, ensuring data quality, and influencing strategic decision-making.
- Operationalising data governance: Gain practical insights into how to implement and enforce data governance policies that align with your organisation’s goals and objectives.
- Building a data-driven culture: Explore strategies for fostering a culture that prioritizes data quality, security, and governance across all levels of the organisation.
Workshop Leaders:
Sarah Lauder
Director, Data and Information Management
Anchoram Consulting
Mr. Andrew Smailes
Enterprise Data Specialist
DAMA Canberra Branch
Dr. Jonathan Gray
Lead Partner
Anchoram Consulting
Permenthri Pillay
Partner, Government and Public Sector Business Tranformers, Digital Transformation
EY Australia
The Hon Paul Fletcher MP
Manager of Opposition Business in the House
Shadow Minister for Government Services and the Digital Economy, and Shadow Minister for Science and the Arts
- Government’s approach by providing baseline requirements on governance, assurance and transparency of AI
- Strengthening public trust in government’s use of AI by providing enhanced transparency, governance and risk assurance
- Addressing the importance of ensuring AI systems are free from biases that could lead to discrimination
Lucy Poole
General Manager Strategy, Planning and Performance Division
Digital Transformation Agency
- Understanding how to collect, analyze, and interpret data to harness the power of AI technologies
- Rethinking of education and training programs to ensure that students and workers are equipped with the skills needed to succeed in
the AI era
- Exploring how data and digital leaders from the Australian Public Service are driving innovation to enhance citizen outcomes
- Examining the critical role of data and technology in building a smarter, more responsive government that meets the evolving
expectations of citizens - Balancing citizen expectations, emerging technologies, and operational demands
- Strengthening data security and privacy to uphold public trust
- Collaborating with industry leaders to drive innovation and expertise in digital transformation
Permenthri Pillay
Partner, Government and Public Sector Business Transformation, Digital Transformation
EY Australia
- Ensuring your data and
analytics strategy
supports cross –
government and
organisational priorities
for cohesive policy
implementation and
enhanced
responsiveness - Developing a strategic
approach to data
analytics while
maintaining the agility to
adapt to evolving
organisational priorities
and public needs
- Understanding your
organisation’s current
data landscape to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities - Developing a data
strategy that aligns to
overall business
outcomes - Enabling a data-driven culture across all levels of your organisation to elevate data in the public sector
Dr Andrew Taylor
Assistant Secretary Strategy and Delivery
Office of the National Data Commissioner
Liz Daykin
Investment Data Governance Lead
Australian Retirement Trust
President
DAMA Australia
- Effectively harness automation and AI technologies while
upholding ethical standards to drive purpose-driven data and analytics solutions - Cultivating a data culture rooted in transparency and
responsibility, ensuring that data and AI are used for the public good - Navigating complex ethical challenges and establish frameworks that protect data
privacy and promote
responsible AI use
Ben Taylor
Assistant Commissioner, Data Insights Delivery
Australian Taxation Office
- Identifying key areas
where AI can drive the
most value in government operations - Collaboration across
departments to ensure AI adoption is cohesive and organisation-wide - Mitigating biases in AI models to promote fairness and accountability
Andrew Morrison
Chief Technology Officer
EY Australian
- Methods for decentralising data governance to reduce
workload and maximise results - Key strategies for
cultivating a data-driven culture that promotes collaboration around data - Best practices for sharing data to support citizen
services while
maintaining trust and
transparency
Sam Spencer
CEO and Information
Security Officer
Aristotle Metadata
- Outlining the Australian
government’s current
cybersecurity policies,
including legislative
measures and public-private partnerships - Overview of the most
prevalent cyber threats facing Australia today, including ransomware, phishing
attacks, and data breaches - Equipping our government
organisations with stronger
cyber resilience - Collaboration among
government, private sector and international partners to enhancing cybersecurity posture through
LTGEN Michelle McGuinness CSC
Affairs, National Cyber Security Coordinator
Department of Home Affairs
- Identifying how AI
technologies can be used
by malicious actors to
create sophisticated
cyber threats, such as
automated attacks and
deepfakes - Addressing ethical
concerns and privacy
issues related to the use
of AI in cybersecurity,
including data protection
and algorithmic biases - Developing the
necessary skills and
expertise within the
cybersecurity workforce
to effectively manage and
mitigate AI-related risks
Take advantage of this engaging peer-to-peer networking experience aimed at fostering meaningful connections. Enjoy relaxed conversations that encourage open dialogue and collaboration as you share insights, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships with fellow data professionals. Participate in structured 10-minute rotations in our dedicated meeting zone, designed to facilitate both learning and networking.
- Bringing leadership on the journey to build a data culture from the top down
- Identifying missed
opportunities to involve executives in data projects beyond decision making, budgeting, and reporting - Understanding the
difference between
developing data informed cultures versus data driven ones - Developing innovative
strategies to engage
leaders in the data
journey and foster a data driven culture
Mike Lau
Chief Data & Analytics Officer
Australian Digital Health Agency
Dr. Tania Churchill
Chief Data & Analytics Officer
Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission
Duncan Young
Chief Data Officer and Head of Health Economics and Research
Department of Health and Aged Care
- Breaking down data silos
to reduce risks of
inconsistency, security
breaches, and
compliance challenges - Implementing integrated
data management
systems for seamless
sharing across agencies - Ensuring data accuracy
through validation, regular audits, and standardized formats for consistent, reliable insights
Kayelle Drinkwater
Chief Data Officer &
General Manager, Analysis
& Insights Division
Department of Industry,
Science and Resources
- Driving engagement and adoption of self-serve data platforms
- Overcoming obstacles to democratisation including access, data literacy, and interoperability
- Building the reputation of your data organisation as
a strategic enabler
Katherine Boicuic
Chief Technology and Innovation Officer
EY Australia
- Understanding your data maturity stage and what specific
steps needed to progress - Implementing data governance, foster cross-functional collaboration, and enhance data infrastructure for sustained maturity development
- Promoting data literacy and securing leadership buy-in to
drive a culture of data-driven decision-making across all
organisational levels - Exploring how modern tools,
such as AI, cloud computing, and automation, can help scale - Future-proofing your data strategy by embracing new technologies, staying agile, and continuously evolving to meet the demands of a data-driven environment
Paul Robards
Chief Data Integration Officer
Department of Defence
- Navigating the rapidly
evolving technological
landscape with strategic AI integration - Driving innovation and shaping ethical frameworks in the age of AI
- Enhancing collaboration
between IT and cyber
teams for shared success - Developing critical skills and responsibilities to
propel organisations into an AI-driven future
Shikha Sharma
Chief Information Officer & Director Business Improvement Technology
Department of Human Services SA
- Building an effective data
architecture foundation to
harness the power of AI - Enabling uninterrupted
data access for front
office teams while
allowing IT to transition to
the cloud at their pace - Incorporating best
practices from agencies
that have successfully
adopted AI-driven logical
data architecture
- Aligning data and digital strategies with your organisation’s overall mission and long-term objectives to ensure cohesive, impactful initiatives
- Overcoming challenges such as data silos, resistance to change, and technological limitations, along with strategies to address them
- Lessons learned from
organisations that have navigated complex data and digital transformations, including key factors that led to successful outcomes and pitfalls to avoid
Rebecca Ostergaard
Chief Digital Officer
CSIRO
- Strategies for identifying and mitigating new vulnerabilities
as technology and threat landscapes evolve - Crafting and recrafting cyber security risk plans
- Developing and testing
incident response to ensure preparedness and effective response in case of cyber incidents - Cultivating a security
conscious culture across organisations involved in managing critical infrastructure
Heidi Hutchison
Assistant Director-General, Cyber Uplift
Australian Cyber Security Centre Australian Signals Directorate
- Setting up transparent and efficient communication
methods between public and private sectors to ensure
timely information sharing and coordinated responses - Leveraging collective
expertise and resources to enhance resilience against evolving cyber threats - Developing and implementing
shared frameworks and protocols that streamline collaborative efforts and enhance consistency in addressing public concerns
Helge Janicke
Deputy CEO, Research Director
Cyber Security Cooperative Research Centre
- Defining data mesh, its purpose, and best practices for successful implementation
- Establishing the benefits and differentiate it from other modern data architectures
- Devising an implementation plan for your data mesh initiative, uncovering effective methods to overcome potential roadblock
- How Service NSW built a comprehensive data catalog to uncover hidden data assets and maximize their value
- Democratising access to data by building a universal analytics platform
- Transforming data into knowledge through a wide rollout of actionable analytics for all teams
- Strategies to empower teams to interpret analytics reports effectively and drive real-time responses through structured metric reviews
Andrew Spiegelman
Head of Data Analytics
Service NSW
- Ensuring compliance with GDPR by mastering data sovereignty requirements
- Overcoming key challenges in managing data sovereignty across the EU
- Staying ahead of regulatory demands by understanding essential GDPR data sovereignty obligations
- Safeguarding EU citizens’ data with robust protection, no matter where it’s processed or stored, building trust and reducing risk
This roundtable discussion offers a unique chance to engage with data peers, sharing common challenges and best practices on a topic of your choice. Each of the ten roundtables will be co-hosted by a technology expert and a government data leader, ensuring meaningful and insightful conversations. At the end of the day, facilitators will present a summary of the key findings to the entire group, allowing all participants to benefit from the collective insights.
1
Data Talent and Workforce Planning
Develop strategies to close skill gaps in the data workforce and ensure a pipeline of capable talent in APS
2
Data Driven Culture, Data Sharing and Accessibility
Practical approaches for promoting data sharing and collaboration among di erent government departments and agencies, considering the diverse data governance structures and regulations?
3
AI Tools & Emerging Technologies
Explore cutting-edge AI tools, create tailored implementation plans, and apply best practices to optimise organisational performance and outcomes.
4
Optimising Data Cloud & Storage Solutions
Leverage advanced data storage and cloud platforms, integrating security protocols to safeguard sensitive information e ectively.
5
Data Governance & Risk Management
Implement robust data governance frameworks, develop risk audit methodologies, and ensure compliance with regulations to maintain data integrity.
6
Ethics & Regulation in AI
Establish ethical guidelines for AI development, ensuring adherence to regulatory frameworks and promoting responsible AI usage.
7
Selecting the Right Data Solutions
Identify and implement data solutions that drive informed decision-making and improve overall efficiency
8
Enhancing Data Sharing Across Agencies
Strengthen data-sharing practices across government agencies to improve collaboration and outcomes.
9
Data Governance & Security
Reinforce data governance and security measures to ensure regulatory compliance and mitigate risks
Join us for an exclusive Networking Dinner at The Boat House Canberra on 2nd April 2025 at 7:00 PM. End your Summit day with a fine dining experience alongside your peers in a stunning lakeside setting.
Nestled along the scenic banks of Lake Burley Griffin, The Boat House promises more than just a meal—it’s a culinary journey in an unforgettable venue.
Seats are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so reserve your spot now to secure this premier networking opportunity!
Jo Talbot
Manager of Data Governance
Australian Communications and Media Authority
Alison Rose
Chief of Space Division
Geoscience Australia
- More insight, less effort – Building digital architectures to turn information into actionable insights
- Know your audience – understanding what you want to say and to who
- Developing an effective process that will ensure quality data visuals
- Understanding what visuals work best for different data types
- How data-driven decision-making can stimulate economic development by identifying growth sectors and optimising resource allocation
- Importance of real-time data access in enhancing service delivery and decision-making processes
- Highlighting successful collaborations between state governments to promote data-sharing initiatives and develop innovative solutions
- Measurement frameworks used by state governments to assess their data strategies
Rai Fergusson
Chief Digital & Data Officer
Infrastructure Australia
Jason Owusu
Chief of Data & Digital
Department of Transport & Planning
Andrew Spiegelman
Head of Data & Analytics
Service NSW
Gabrielle Rus
Senior Data Analyst
Australian Taxation Office
In a joint initiative between the APS Commission and DAMA Australia, the Data Cadets program is designed to attract, develop, and support individuals entering data-related roles within the APS. This program offers a comprehensive pathway for emerging talent, equipping them with the necessary skills to thrive in a variety of data-centric positions, ensuring a strong future workforce for the APS.
Meredith Padgett
Acting Director Growing Data and Digital Employment Pipelines
Australian Public Service Commission
Andrew Smailes
Enterprise Data Specialist
DAMA Canberra Branch
In this session, representatives from leading professional societies will discuss how they support individuals in advancing their data and digital careers. The panel will also explore key challenges facing data professionals today and in the future, providing insights into career development, skills enhancement, and navigating the evolving data landscape.
Data Analytics and AI in Public Service Decision Making
Liz Daykin
Investment Data Governance Lead
Australian Retirement Trust
President
DAMA Australia
- How advancements in data access and validation have led to a new era of analytical models
- Use cases how data analytics improved public service delivery and outcomes
Dr. Lance Emerson
Deputy Secretary, eHealth Division
Department of Health
- Learning how AI can streamline government operations, reducing manual tasks and improving efficiency in public service delivery
- Deploying AI ethically in government to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability, fostering trust
with citizens - Strategies for faster AI
implementation - Enhancing data-driven decision-making, allowing government agencies to allocate resources more effiectively and respond to challenges more quickly
- How AI can help governments stay competitive in the digital era, improving productivity while adhering to evolving standards and policies
Vinicius Cardoso
CTO ANZ , Head of Solutions Engineering
Cloudera
CIO Leadership Driving Data-Driven Innovation
- Human Services journey from traditional to data-driven
- Enabling data accessibility supported by effective data integration and cloud infrastructure, is key to fostering innovation and improving client outcomes
- Optimising IT architecture to modernise and scale IT infrastructure, including data lakes, data warehouses, and integration platforms, to support the growing demand for real-time data and advanced analytics
Shikha Sharma
Chief Information Officer & Director Business Improvement Technology
Department of Human Services SA
Strengthening Cybersecurity Readiness and Data Privacy
- Data privacy first: Steering AI through regulatory challenges
- Data-driven innovation: A balance act of collaboration and privacy
- Ensuring citizens are aware of and able to exercise their privacy rights to promote trust
Elizabeth Tydd
Commisioner
Australian Office of the Information Commissioner
- Guidance on adopting critical measures like the Essential Eight to enhance security across public sector systems
- Strategies for cultivating cybersecurity awareness and best practices
- Practical steps to improving incident response through information sharing and coordinated efforts across the public sector
- Exploring how organisations can create clear pathways for emerging talent by providing opportunities for skill development, mentorship, and leadership training
- Equipping future leaders with not only technical expertise but also the ability to apply data insights strategically and ethically in a rapidly evolving digital landscape
(This is a facilitated discussions led by data experts offering advice in a collaborative setting for those who are new in the data profession)
Data Analytics and AI in Public Service Decision Making
- Fostering a culture of collaboration and open data sharing
- Reduction in barriers to make data more accessible
- Establishing a strong culture of ethical data standards within the public sector
- How can organisations and governments ensure they use the public data appropriately and ethically for their intended purposes?
Claire Sparke
Group Head, Data Governance and Integration Group
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
Olga Lysenko
Director Enterprise Data Strategy & Governance Management
Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water
Nithin Balakrishnan
Director, Data Capability
ACT Government
Adam Clarke
Chief Technology Officer
Logicly
- Unlocking Opportunities –Exploring how generative AI can transform public sector operations and services
- Ensuring Responsible Adoption: Best practices for ethically implementing AI to safeguard public interests and ensure transparency
- Getting Started with Generative AI: Practical steps for initiating and integrating generative AI
Jenny Humphrys
Chief Data Officer
Department of Employment and Workplace Relations
CIO Leadership Driving Data-Driven Innovation
- Data lakes vs. data warehouses – key differences
- Assessing compatibility with current data tools and ecosystems
- Importance of implementing strong security measures to protect sensitive information
- Use cases in the APS
Chris Crozier
Chief Information Officer
Department of Defence
- Clarifying the clear connection between records,information and data
- The Importance of accurate data for effective information
- Aligning technologies and processes for data collection, storage, processing, and record-keeping to optimise efficiency and ensure compliance with business requirements
- The gaps in many governance and transformation initiatives
- Leveraging AI and large language models (LLMs) to extract actionable insights from unstructured data for informed decision-making
- Exploring the risks associated with AI implementation in public data
- Highlighting the benefits of AI in enhancing public service efficiency and effectiveness
Benjamin Lamont
Manager Technology Strategy and Data
Australian Federal Police
Strengthening Cybersecurity Readiness and Data Privacy
- Developing and implementing
an effective cyber security framework to proactively manage risk and continually strengthen protections - How can regular security evaluations and adoption of innovative controls help public sector agencies dynamically
assess maturity and respond to emerging threats? - How can models of
cross-agency and public-private partnership help amplify cyber defenses through shared expertise, streamlined coordination and rapid information exchange? - How can targeted skills development and training
empower cyber professionals to safeguard operations into an uncertain future through
exposure to cutting edge strategies and techniques?
Sadeed Tirmizey
CISO
Seqwater
- What collaborative approaches could help Australia and its partners more effectively coordinate responses to transnational cyber incidents?
- How can we help build stronger cyber defenses and resilience in regional critical infrastructure ecosystems?
- How can Australia shape global technology markets to strengthen security and safety in the technology our governments, businesses and communities use?
Senior Representative
Department of Foreign
Affairs and Trade
- Best practices for linking data assets to enhance decision-making and service outcomes
- The role of data governance in ensuring accuracy, security, and accessibility within the public sector
- Strategies for aligning linked data with whole-of-government objectives while ensuring compliance with data sovereignty and privacy regulations
- Addressing the challenges of data sharing, ownership, and privacy within intergovernmental linked data ecosystems
Greg Italiano
Government Chief Information Officer
Department of the Premier and Cabinet of WA
- Finding opportunities to strengthen implementation of the Framework for the Governance of Indigenous Data
- The importance of collaboration between government bodies, Indigenous organisations, and communities in overcoming challenges
Nattlie Smith (Wiradjuri)
Branch Manager, Strategic Insights
National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA)
