Public Sector Podcast

Bridging the Digital Skills Gap in Government - Jennifer Dobell - Episode 162

Public Sector Podcast

Show Notes

In this episode, we hear from Jennifer Dobell, Chief Operating Officer at the Australian Financial Security Authority (AFSA), as she shares practical, hard-earned insights on closing the digital skills gap in government. Drawing on her experience leading major national and state workforce strategies, Jennifer breaks down what it really takes to align organisational goals, tech strategy, and workforce planning in environments defined by legacy systems, tight budgets, and rising expectations around AI. Jennifer also offers a candid look at AFSA's own transformation toward becoming a contemporary, data-driven regulator — highlighting the importance of service design, data governance, cyber resilience, and uplifting business–tech collaboration. For public sector leaders, HR teams, and digital practitioners, this episode delivers grounded guidance on building a tech workforce that's realistic, capable, and ready for the future. Jennifer Dobell, Chief Operating Officer, Australian Financial Security Authority. For more great insights head to www.PublicSectorNetwork.co

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