Artificial intelligence has moved from experimentation to a strategic priority across government. Yet as investment grows, so too do questions around trust, governance, capability and outcomes. While many agencies are exploring AI, the challenge is no longer whether to adopt it—but how to ensure it delivers meaningful value for citizens, strengthens public trust and supports better government decision-making.
Join Dr Ian Oppermann, Commissioner at the ACCC and former NSW Chief Data Scientist, for a discussion on what it takes to move beyond AI ambition and towards responsible, effective implementation. Drawing on lessons from government, industry and international experience, this session will explore how leaders can navigate the opportunities and risks of AI while building the foundations for long-term success.
Key Discussion Points
- Moving beyond pilots: what separates successful AI adoption from experimentation
- Defining and measuring public value in AI-enabled government services
- Building trust, transparency and accountability into AI decision-making
- Developing the leadership, workforce capability and organisational culture needed for responsible AI adoption
- Creating governance and standards that enable innovation while managing risk
Speakers:
- Dr Ian Oppermann, Commissioner at the ACCC and former NSW Chief Data Scientist — He has extensive experience across data, technology, digital identity and AI governance, with a focus on how data can be used responsibly to improve services, decision-making and public outcomes. His work has helped shape important conversations around trust, transparency and the role of emerging technologies in government and the wider digital economy.
- Moderated by Jennifer Arnold — Jennifer Arnold MAICD is Managing Director of Jennifer Arnold Consulting and a senior executive with nearly three decades of experience across marketing, sales, communications, customer experience and consulting. She has worked with leading technology and services organisations, supporting go-to-market strategy, advisory boards, customer communities and public sector engagement.
Join Government Innovation Week
As AI becomes more embedded in public sector workflows, many of the themes raised in the webinar are only becoming more important. That conversation will continue at Government Innovation Week Federal 2026, where Ian will also be speaking at Digital Leadership Day in Canberra.
Taking place in Canberra on 21–22 October 2026 at the National Convention Centre Canberra, Government Innovation Week brings together 100s of public sector professionals to explore how technology, strategy and leadership can help shape a more responsive and resilient government.
Across the week, the program will examine how AI, data and secure digital systems are redefining the way government operates and delivers value to citizens through:
- Digital Leadership Day (21 Oct) | Registration via email request
A day focused on leadership, strategy and capability, exploring how senior leaders can guide digital transformation, AI adoption and organisational change across government. - Government Innovation Showcase (22 Oct) | Free to register
A cross-government forum focused on practical innovation, showcasing how agencies are using AI, data and digital to improve citizen experience, strengthen decision-making and lift productivity. - Government Cyber Security Showcase (22 Oct) | Free to register
A dedicated event for leaders and practitioners focused on cyber resilience, secure digital systems and the next steps in protecting government services and data.
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