Join a network of leaders for presentations and panels to discuss all aspects of public sector capability.

The Mandarin’s ‘Building a Better Public Service’ is an all-day conference on June 12, 2025.

At its core, capability covers everything from recruitment to employee retention, and skills training to continuous professional development, and using data for better decision-making. It also includes elements of ethics, craft, stewardship, values and leadership across many government disciplines, including technology, finance, national security and social services.

Join speakers including:

Malcolm Turnbull, 29th Prime Minister of Australia
Courtney Houssos, NSW Finance and Government Procurement Minister
Kim Williams, ABC chair
Kate Boyd, Secretary, The Cabinet Office NSW
Susan Pearce, Secretary, NSW Health
Kathrina Lo, NSW Public Service Commissioner
Ian Oppermann, ServiceGen co-founder
Libby Hackett, Australian Public Policy Institute CEO
Shane Fitzsimmons, Managing Director, SAF Leading Advisory
Dr Marcus Wigan, Professor Emeritus Edinburgh Napier University, Transport and Information systems
Stephen Bartos, Professor of Government, University of Canberra
Katie McDermott, founder, See Me Please

For enquires, please contact events@themandarin.com.au

Find out more about this event.

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Frequently asked questions:

1. Event details

Thursday, June 12 - Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney

Conference 8.30am - 5.20pm

Networking drinks 5.20pm - 6.20pm

2. How much are tickets?

Ticket price is dependent on release and if you are working in the public sector. Please visit the checkout page for full pricing information. For group ticket purchases, please contact our team directly at events@themandarin.com.au.

3. Can this conference be used as part of my training and development?

Yes. If you need further information to provide for internal sign-off, please contact our team by emailing events@themandarin.com.au.

4. Are there other perks of attending?

Yes. You will receive a 50% discount on an annual subscription to The Mandarin and exclusive access to Pia Andrews and Marcus Wigan's new book, The Expertise Deficit.

5. How can I find more information about sponsoring?

For our media kit and more information, please contact raustin@themandarin.com.au.

Contact the host of The Mandarin Live: Building a Better Public Service - Sydney