On 1 August, we held the Frances Adamson Oration delivered by Dr Wendy Craik AM FTSE, renowned scientist, public policy adviser, and company director. In her speech, she provided critical insights on building integrity and trust and using science and expertise to solve Australia’s most pressing environmental challenges. IPAA National president Andrew Metcalf AO hosted the event and facilitated the Q&A session.

Here are some of Dr Craik’s main points:

💡From disinformation to a rapidly changing environment, issues affecting the world and some unsatisfactory responses in the eyes of the public have caused a drop in trust in governments and the public service
💡In times like these, it’s important that the public service be truly impartial
💡Sometimes even the best evidence-based advice is not welcomed, even when the benefits outweigh the costs
💡There is increasing distrust and cynicism towards science and expertise
💡Given the environmental challenges facing us, science has a really important role to play in responding to these issues, but it is not always an easy task to persuade people
💡It takes time to develop trust – this applies to every area and relationship
💡Ethical public administration relies on the integrity of individuals and the codes, rules and regulations of governments
💡If you’re starting as a public servant, come to the office as often as you can
💡Celebrate examples of people demonstrating integrity
💡Scientific and other technical expertise informs good decision-making
💡Be patient – Sometimes it takes time for good policy to evolve
💡Principle-based processes can help engender trust
💡Turn up and listen and report the outcome

Speech – a copy of the speech is available here.
Photos – a selection of photos are available below (Photo credit: Ben Appleton)