Evidence in Action - Why evidence matters in public policy - Secretaries' roundtable

Overview

This panel session, part of Evidence in Action Week, brings together senior Australian Public Service leaders to explore how evidence, data and evaluation can strengthen policy development, service delivery and government decision-making. Panel members discuss the importance of turning data into actionable insights, focusing on outcomes rather than outputs, and ensuring evidence is used to improve the wellbeing of Australians.

Through practical examples from across government, the discussion examines how leaders make decisions when evidence is incomplete, how organisations can build a culture of curiosity and learning, and why communication is often as important as the evidence itself. The panel highlights the role of judgement, evaluation, stakeholder engagement and ethical decision-making in achieving effective public policy outcomes.

The session also explores the opportunities and risks presented by emerging technologies, including AI, and considers how public servants can use new analytical tools while maintaining transparency, trust and public confidence. Attendees are encouraged to think critically, communicate clearly and apply evidence with purpose to deliver better outcomes for the community.

This learning experience has been provided by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.

Participant benefits

• Gain practical insights from senior APS leaders on using evidence, data and evaluation to inform policy, program and service delivery decisions.
• Learn techniques for communicating complex evidence effectively, influencing decision-makers and turning analysis into action.
• Understand how curiosity, judgement, storytelling and emerging technologies such as AI can enhance evidence-informed decision-making across government.

Suitable for

All staff

Category and User Level

This learning experience aligns with the Strategy, Policy & Evaluation Craft at the Foundation level.