On Thursday 29th January 2026, our inaugural APS Commencement Address created a moment for public servants to pause and consider their role in a world that feels increasingly uncertain.

With warmth and clarity, Dr Steven Kennedy PSM framed the address around three enduring values of the Australian Public Service: service, empathy, and stewardship.

He spoke about the growing pressures on democracy globally, the rise of antisemitism and misinformation, and the painful lessons of the Bondi attack. Against this backdrop, Dr Kennedy reminded the APS of its responsibility to protect trust, uphold democratic institutions and support Australians through change.

A panel discussion featuring Dr Steven Kennedy and Dr Gordon de Brouwer PSM, Australian Public Service Commissioner, built on these themes, focusing on how the APS can lead through technological, political and social disruption. The discussion explored the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence, the importance of human-centred services, and the role of public servants as active participants in shaping the future of the APS.

Here’s a short summary of the key takeaways for the evening:

Key takeaways

• Democracy and trust must be actively protected – The global environment is becoming more unstable, with rising misinformation, hate and declining trust in institutions. The APS plays a vital role in safeguarding democratic institutions, trusted data and honest, long-term decision making.
• Stewardship means building institutions that can bend, not break – The APS is designed to withstand turbulence. Strong institutional design, adaptability and long-term thinking allow government to manage crises without losing legitimacy or public confidence.
• Trust in the APS is growing and must be nurtured – Public trust now sits at 62 per cent, driven by better digital services, stronger frontline delivery and greater transparency. Internally, more staff feel safe to take risks, challenge ideas and innovate.
• A public service that reflects Australia is a stronger public service – Progress in gender equality, First Nations leadership and broader inclusion is improving how the APS designs policy and delivers services to the community.
• Technology must be used with integrity and transparency – AI can transform public services, but trust depends on being open about how it is used and ensuring people continue to feel respected and heard by their government.
• Leadership requires curiosity, humility and reflection – In fast-paced environments, leaders must avoid getting trapped in constant crisis mode. Stepping back, asking about unintended consequences and reconnecting to purpose are essential to building trust.
• Everyone has agency and a responsibility for stewardship – Public servants are not passive observers of change. By taking ownership of their work, listening to different perspectives and being willing to act, every APS employee helps protect trust, strengthen institutions and shape the future of the public service. Stewardship is not just a leadership role. It is something we all practise through the choices we make every day.

Read the full speech here.