Online Training

Data Visualisation and Storytelling

Transforming complex data into compelling stories that drive policy impact.

03 & 05 June 2025

10:00 AM - 2:30 PM

Next intake: 03 & 05 June 2025 | 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM

Overview

Government agencies handle massive volumes of data daily, yet 80% of data analytics efforts fail due to poor communication of insights (Gartner, 2024). Without the ability to translate raw data into compelling visual stories, critical decisions can be delayed, misunderstood, or misinformed—impacting policy effectiveness and public trust.

A well-crafted data visualisation doesn’t just present numbers; it guides decision-makers toward actionable insights. Consider the COVID-19 response—governments worldwide relied on clear, real-time data dashboards to inform public health measures. Similarly, environmental agencies use data storytelling to drive action on climate change, and policy teams leverage data to secure funding for critical programs. 

With 80% of people absorbing information faster through visuals than text, mastering data visualisation is no longer optional—it’s an essential skill for public sector professionals tasked with delivering data-driven policies, strategies, and services. 

Who Should Attend?

Recommended for APS 5 to EL2, as well as state and local government equivalents, this training will benefit anyone seeking to enhance their ability to translate complex data into clear, compelling narratives that drive action and impact. Ideal for roles such as:
Data Analysts, Business Intelligence Specialists, Policy Officers, Program Managers, Research and Evaluation Officers, and GIS Specialists.
It is particularly relevant for those in reporting, performance measurement, and stakeholder engagement.

Learning Outcomes

Understand the core principles of effective data visualisation and storytelling.
Select the right visualisation techniques for different audiences and data types.
Learn how to structure a compelling data narrative to support decision-making.
Explore design best practices to ensure clarity, accuracy, and engagement.
Apply cutting-edge tools and technologies for data visualisation.
Develop storytelling strategies that increase stakeholder buy-in.
Enhance data literacy to align with APS and state government data strategies.

Online Training

Data Visualisation and Storytelling


Session details

  • Enhance your data-driven decision-making – Improve your ability to interpret, visualise, and communicate data insights. 
  • Improve engagement with policymakers and the public – Use compelling visuals and narratives to influence decision-makers. 
  • Stay ahead of digital transformation – Align with the APS and state data capability frameworks. 
  • Benchmark against peers – Learn from best practices across Australian government agencies. 
  • Boost your career potential – Develop a critical skill set in high demand across APS, state, and local government roles. 
View course modules

Level: Fundamentals

No technical background is required. However, a basic understanding of data interpretation and reporting will be beneficial.

Key Sessions

10.00am           Welcome and opening remarks  

  • Introductions  
  • Overview of the day’s agenda 
  • Setting expectations 

 

10.20am           Module One: Fundamentals of Data Visualisation  

  • Understand the principles of effective data visualisation, including clarity, accuracy, and aesthetics  
  • Identify and choose appropriate types of visualisations for different data sets and messages  
  • Evaluate existing visualisations for effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.  

 12.30 Break 

1.00pm Module Two: Creating Impactful Visualisations  

  • Explore various types of charts and graphs and their best use cases  
  • Apply techniques for designing clear and impactful charts, including layout, colours, and labelling  
  • Understand how to tell a story with data using visualisations to highlight key insights and trends  

  

2.15pm Closing remarks 

2.30pm End of Day 1 

10.00am           Welcome and recap  

  • Review of day 1 
  • Overview of the days agenda 
  • Setting expectations 

  

10.20am Module Three: Fundamentals of Data Storytelling  

  • Understand the concept and importance of data storytelling in the public sector  
  • Analyse the components of a compelling data story, including narrative structure and context  
  • Identify key messages and insights from data sets to form the basis of your story  

 

12.30pm Break 

1.00pm Module Four: Crafting and Communicating Data Stories  

  • Discover how to find data story building blocks by identifying relevant data points and insights  
  • Develop skills for writing clear and engaging narratives around data  
  • Communicate a narrative using data visualisation to enhance understanding and engagement  

  

2.15pm Closing remarks and Q&A 

2.30pm End of Day 2 

Meet Your Facilitator

Rabia Khan

With over 20 years of global experience in government, healthcare, and non-profits, Rabia Khan is a leading expert in leveraging data to solve complex challenges. She has worked with major organisations such as OECD, NHS England, NSW Health, and Queensland Health, using data storytelling to drive impactful policy and operational decisions.

Rabia’s expertise spans public health crises, including COVID-19 and antibiotic resistance, as well as environmental and housing challenges. Passionate about making data meaningful, she specialises in helping professionals transform raw data into compelling narratives that influence decision-making.

As a board member of TUFH, an international organisation focused on equitable health solutions, Rabia is committed to building data literacy and fostering positive change through clear, impactful communication. 

Register Today

Join this training for professionals working within the Public Sector

Pay for individual courses

Early Bird

Ends 2 May

$A 995

per person + tax $200 saving

 

Regular

Ends 2 Jun

$A 1195

per person + tax

Additional discounts are available for group registrations of 10 or more. For group or payment enquiries or custom training solutions, please contact training@publicsector.academy

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