EP#147: Building a data-driven Public Service

In this episode of Work with Purpose, David Pembroke speaks with Dr David Gruen AO Australian Statistician and the inaugural head of the APS Data Profession about the transformative role data plays in the public sector.

The APS Data Profession, launched in 2020, it has grown from a pilot into a thriving community of 13,500 members across Commonwealth, state and territory governments. The profession is about more than technical skills. It’s building a culture of evidence-based decision making, giving leaders confidence in using data, and opening career pathways through graduate streams and cadet programs.

Dr Gruen reflects on how communities of practice, the Data Capability Framework, and initiatives like the Data Awards are shaping a smarter, more collaborative public service ready for challenges like AI and machine learning.

Key takeaways:

1. Why data matters in government – the APS Data profession is building skills and a culture that supports evidence-based decisions.
2. How the data profession is growing - from graduate programs to communities of practice, creating a strong pipeline of talent and collaboration
3. What leaders need to know – why senior executives and decision makers must understand data to better shape outcomes for Australian citizens

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