What's At Stake?: Recent Episodes
Banksia Strategic Partners
Our team has unique expertise in media, public affairs, politics and communications - and on What's At Stake - we put that knowledge to good use.
Each episode, the Banksia team brings a strategic communications lens to the stories you find on the front page of your morning paper, and talks to the movers and shakers that are breaking and making those stories.
You can expect to hear interviews with prominent figures, explainers on key policies, and analysis from our team about whichever current event that you have just seen leading the six o’clock news - letting you know, What's At Stake?
The clean energy transition is currently one of Australia’s biggest economic challenges. To properly understand the task at hand, we must consider and review the entire energy supply chain; from raw materials through to power infrastructure, workforce, transportation, and end consumers.
Our latest episode of “What's At Stake?” takes a look inside the matrix of Australia's energy system, known in many circles as “the grid”.
Our guest is Mervin Kall, Head of Grid at OX2 Australia.
OX2 is a renewable energy industry pioneer who are active in the global marketplace across several energy technologies. In the episode, Mervin leverages his and OX2’s experience across different countries trying to transition to help us unpack Australia’s current challenges.
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It’s the stuff of media advisor nightmares.
You receive a call from the producer of a renowned investigative journalism team requesting an interview with the CEO. Enter the double-edged sword. Perform well, and this is a golden opportunity to provide context and information to your stakeholders. Perform poorly and it’s a PR disaster in waiting.
The recent Four Corners episode exploring Australia’s supermarket duopoly provided us with such a case study.
Coles CEO, Leah Weckert was calm and collected, answering the queries she was aware of, and taking new information on notice. Woolworths CEO Brad Banducci was not – and it culminated in his resignation in the same week.
On this episode of What’s At Stake? The team at Banksia Strategic Partners breakdown the 'xs & os' of media interviews as well as their opportunities, risks, and possible outcomes.
Guests:
James Fitzpatrick, Director
Matilda Finn, Communications Associate
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On this episode of Michelson Alexander Explains, we are exploring the potential of renewable gas in Australia’s decarbonisation journey.
What role could renewable gases like biomethane play in the transition? What kind of misconceptions are there around renewable gas and how can we change the narrative?
Acting Associate, Matilda Finn and Senior Associate, James Fitzpatrick are joined by special guest, Mike Davis, the Managing Director of Optimal Renewable Gas.
Mike has over 15 years of experience in the energy sector and has held several senior technical and commercial roles with APA, ATCO Australia and Jemena where he was responsible for developing and commercialising underground gas storage, gas transmission and expansion, gas-fired power generation, green hydrogen production and blending into the gas grid.
▬ On this episode ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
(0:00) - Intro
(1:10) - What is the current renewable gas landscape in Australia?
(2:09) - What is biogas?
(4:29) - How do Australia's biogas developments compare to overseas projects?
(13:43) - What are the situations where biogas is a more appropriate renewable energy source than other methods?
(17:40) - What are Optimal Renewable Gas' current projects?
(19:35) - What policy changes are required to allow renewable gas to develop in Australia?
(25:20) - Does renewable gas currently have a social licence to operate?
(31:26) - What is the imagined role of biogas in the energy mix of 2050?
Today's Guest: Mike Davis, Managing Director @ Optimal Renewable Gas
Treasurer Jim Chalmers unveiled a federal budget that he says strikes a “considered and methodical balance” between tackling inflation and supporting struggling Australians.
In so doing, Federal Labor have kicked-off what you might dub “Budget Season” across the nation. And while the federal budget forecasted a modest surplus for the first time in 15 years, the state and territory budgets are likely to be less generous. Across Australia, the decisions that governments make in their budgets clearly signpost each administration’s appetite for different projects.
On this episode of Michelson Alexander Explains... Communications Specialist Gordon Hunter Meredith is joined by Acting Associate Matilda Finn and Founder and Director of Michelson Alexander, Steve Michelson to explore the key takeaways from the federal budget and how organisations should approach budget submissions for the upcoming financial year.
On this episode:
(1:19) - The key takeaways from the 2023/24 Federal Budget
(5:53) - What is the main narrative Labor is trying to tell?
(8:28) - Given the updates on NDIS funding and reforms, what does the future hold for stakeholders in this sector?
(10:06) - Vaping is one of the “hero” budget investments for this set of forecasts, what are the opportunities for other public health campaigns to align themselves with this measure?
(15:33) - Energy investments for the home and for industry seem quite separate. Is there an opportunity to align these objectives in the future?
(20:50) - While the Budget signalled a $40 per week increase to JobSeeker, it was significantly less than what the Economic Inclusion Advisory Committee recommended. What can organisations learn from this budget submission?
(25:40)- How should organisations approach the next “pre-election” budget?
On March 25th, NSW voters faced a choice between reinstating the incumbent coalition government, promising to keep their state moving, for a fourth term, or commencing a fresh start with a new look Labor team eager to end their 12-year stint on opposition benches. An election that was predicted to be the tightest in over a decade, was instead called a Labor victory just hours after polls closed, registering another resounding defeat for the Liberal-National Coalition. While no “Teal Wave” or “Greens Slide” eventuated, the result in NSW reflects the trend seen federally, with Minns’ Labor to form a minority government with an extended crossbench. And in turn, for the first time in 15 years, Labor will hold power in all states and territories on mainland Australia. Today on Michelson Alexander Explains, we are joined by Associate Jeremy Phillip-Yelland and Communications Specialist Matilda Finn to analyse what this state election result means for NSW and Australia. We also explore what we expect the next four years under Premier Minns’ will look like and how your organisation can capitalise on the fresh opportunities that a new government brings. On this episode: What NSW election result means for the Liberal-National Coalition movement at both State and Federal levels? (4:00)How should organisations approach the new Labor governments, and with what timelines in mind? (10:55)What are the consequences and obstacles presented by voters increasingly re-aligning their values with independents rather than political parties? (12:45)What is the current appetite for “big ideas” in a political landscape focused on “deliverables"? (17:39)Does Labor still have an appetite for “unpopular” but important social reform? (26:08)Can we expect increased co-operation between state and federal governments? (33:30)How should organisations approach new cabinet ministers? (35:50)
What will Australia's renewable energy transition involve? How will we get there? Who will it affect? How do we ensure industries and workers are not left behind? Who’s leading the charge in Australia? And the billion-dollar question, who’s footing the bill?
On this episode of Michelson Alexander Explains... we are discussing Australia’s transition to renewable energy and to do so, we are joined by Patricia Boyce, the founder of Seed Advisory and board member for the Centre for New Energy Technologies.
This episode was made in partnership with the Energy Leadership Summit and Expo.
Politicians, business owners, media professionals and sporting organisations. According to social scientists Karen Cerulo of Rutgers University and Janet Ruane of Montclair State University , who published the preeminent study of public apologies, “Apologies of the Rich and Famous”, these are the four professions who are most likely to have to offer public apologies. And so, chances are if you’re listening to this podcast at some stage in 2023, you will need to advise on, draft or offer a public apology.
On this episode of Michelson Alexander Explains... we explore the good, bad and avoidant of public apologies.
Host: Gordon Hunter Meredith
Panel: Elyse Gatt, Senior Associate, Michelson Alexander & James Fitzpatrick, Senior Associate, Michelson Alexander.
Blink, and you might have missed it. After a fortnight-long sprint of personality-focused ads for and against the incumbent Premier, Victoria has voted and Dan Andrews has led his party to a third consecutive election win, equalling former Premier Steve Bracks' record.
In the aftermath of another mini “Dan-slide” victory, the focus has shifted to the hastily rebuilding Liberal party with little to no attention being given to what the continuation of the status-quo might mean for Victoria and Victorians in the next four years.
Today on Michelson Alexander Explains, we're joined by Associate Jeremy Phillips-Yelland and Communication Specialist Matilda Finn to read the post-election tea leaves and explore what this election result and Labor’s “Positive Plan” might mean for the future of Victoria.
It’s become part of our daily online morning routine. We log into our email accounts, to be welcomed by a phishing alert from our workplace’s IT team telling us that the email littered with links and typos, wasn’t from the global CEO. We hit 'block' and then 'delete' and get on with our day.
But what happens when it isn’t a phishing attempt but a mass-scale database breach or a ransomware attack? What happens when it’s not just emails, but identification documents, payment methods, or even medical histories being hacked, stolen, and redistributed?
This is no longer the theme of late 90s sci-fi movies, but the headline topic of the last month of news, with Optus and Medibank becoming the prime examples of the cybersecurity issues at hand.
Now that it’s no longer a matter of ‘if’ but ‘when’ your organisation will experience a cyberattack, how should you respond and communicate in the heat of the moment? What will your customers, shareholders, or partners be expecting from you?
The challenge can appear daunting but in this episode of MA Explains, we are joined by Michelson Alexander Senior Associate James Fitzpatrick who walks us through the tried and tested crisis communication models that can help guide your response and protect your reputation.
Just seven months after former Treasurer Josh Frydenberg delivered his budget in March, Treasurer Jim Chalmers delivered the first of two Federal Budgets that the Labor Government will deliver this financial year.
On this episode of Michelson Alexander Explains, Communications Specialists Matilda Finn and Gordon Hunter Meredith are joined by Michelson Alexander’s Founder and Director Steve Michelson for a comprehensive look at where Labor’s priorities lie, whether they are following through on their election commitments, and how they plan to manage Australia's volatile economic forecasts. Before looking ahead to what we might expect to see in May 2023’s budget.
As one of the world's most misunderstood health issues, it’s long overdue that we rethink how we view addiction.
One in four Australians will struggle with alcohol or drug-related harm in their lifetime, yet many will wait years, even decades, to get the help they need because of stigma, a lack of available resources, or structural failings of the current healthcare system.
On this episode of Michelson Alexander Explains, Senior Associate Aisling Acton is joined by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s CEO Dr Erin Lalor, a recognised leader in the health policy and not-for-profit sectors with over 20 years of experience as a clinician, researcher, advocate and leader.
Aisling and Erin discuss how society’s view of alcohol and drugs is changing, how the ADF’s philosophy of increased knowledge and accessible information is helping change behaviours around substance use, and how we can improve the symbiotic relationship between prevention and treatment programs.
A fever has taken over the country, and its number one symptom is the smell of jasmine in the air.
No, it is not another wave of COVID but Footy Fever that we are talking about.
In the northern states, Rugby League is reigniting its State v State competitiveness as North Queensland and Penrith (two regional cities we might add) have progressed to the penultimate stage, while in the southern states - one eye is on who will win “The Big Dance” on Saturday while the other is surveying whether the Apple Isle get an invite to the party at all...
The slow burn narrative of 2022, in AFL circles at least, was whether Tasmania would be presented with the opportunity to host the 19th club in the Australian Football League.
With the bid formally presented to the AFL commission and club presidents on Monday 19th September, Senior Communications Specialist Gordon Hunter Meredith is joined by Senior Associate James Fitzpatrick and Associate Sabrine Navarro to analyse what we know of the bid so far and to explore how Michelson Alexander would approach the various strategic communication and engagement plan needs of the major stakeholders involved in this important decision for the country’s biggest professional sporting organisation.
On this episode of Michelson Alexander Explains... we’re speaking to Michelson Alexander's Special Adviser and former Deputy Secretary of the Department of Immigration, Abul Rizvi, about the key takeaways from the Federal Government's Jobs and Skills Summit held in Canberra last week.
We’ve covered plenty of ground so far in this mini-series, but we’re yet to discuss hydrogen in space.
For Episode 9 of our Hydrogen Mini-Series, we’re joined by Chris Dolman, a Business Development Manager for Clean Hydrogen at BOC South Pacific
As one of Australia’s leading gas suppliers, BOC has a key role to play in the development of the hydrogen industry. As Chris explains, a social license will be a vital part of a thriving sector. And that growth could go even further than expected by shaking up the space tech game.
GUEST TIMINGS:
Chris Dolman, Business Development Manager for Clean Hydrogen at BOC South Pacific
A big thanks to the Australian Hydrogen Forum for making this series possible.
Welcome to the latest episode of our mini-series on Australia’s hydrogen future, produced in collaboration with the Australian Hydrogen Forum.So far, we’ve heard from business and industry leaders, as well the Clean Energy Regulator. Today, we’re going to get a perspective from inside the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources, and another from the CSIRO. Our first guest, Patrick Hartley, is the leader of the CSIRO’s Hydrogen Industry Mission, and our second guest, James Hetherington, heads up the department’s Hydrogen Strategy Team. Patrick and James joined us to discuss what their respective organisations are doing to turn Australia into a hydrogen superpower, and whether the hydrogen future really will be as good as promised.GUEST TIMINGS:Patrick Hartley, CSIRO Hydrogen Industry Mission Lead (1:06)James Hetherington, Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources Hydrogen Strategy Team Lead (15:10)Keep tabs on your podcast feeds for our next episode, where we'll speak to Chris Dolman from BOC, where we cover, among other things, the potential for hydrogen to shake things up in space, and the importance of a social licence for the industry.A big thanks to the Australian Hydrogen Forum for making this series possible.
Michelson Alexander is thrilled to announce that Michael Long OAM is joining our team as a Special Adviser!During and since his 190-game AFL career with Essendon, Michael has used football as a vehicle to promote better outcomes for First Nations people. In 1995, when he was racially abused on the field, Michael took a stand that ultimately led to the AFL's racial discrimination policy. In 2004, he famously walked to Canberra to meet then-Prime Minister John Howard, a gesture designed to put First Nations issues back on the national agenda. Through The Michael Long Foundation and The Long Walk, he continues to run programs that promote better outcomes for First Nations people.Join Sabrine Navarro, Associate, and Jack Banister, Head of Content, as they welcome 'Longy' to the Michelson Alexander team and explore his life and work so far.Michael is available to provide strategic counsel on First Nations issues and inclusion, advocacy, government relations, policy design and development for a range of corporate, government and not-for-profit clients.
After an enormous weekend in politics, new Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been sworn in, backed by an interim ministry.But with the final composition of the Parliament still to be confirmed, and the full Ministry yet to be announced, there's plenty to keep an eye on for all businesses.Government Relations experts Trystyn Bowe and Elyse Gatt sat down with Head of Content Jack Banister this morning to pick through the major lessons from the weekend.What will this new Government prioritise? What does the election of seven "Teal" independents say about the public's priorities? What influence will the Greens exercise in the new Parliament? And of course, what does it mean for your communications?
Welcome to the latest episode of our mini-series on Australia’s hydrogen future, produced in collaboration with the Australian Hydrogen Forum.Throughout our hydrogen mini-series so far, the idea of a Guarantee of Origin Scheme has been mentioned over and over again. Today, we’re going to find out why.Our guest on this episode is Cameron Mathie from the Clean Energy Regulator. As a Manager for Future Carbon Markets, Cameron is chiefly involved in the design of Australia’s Hydrogen Guarantee of Origin Scheme.We were lucky to sit down with him to discuss how the scheme might look, the trials that are underway, and what a successful scheme will achieve.Keep tabs on your podcast feeds for our next episode, where we'll speak to special guests from the CSIRO and the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources.Finally, thanks to our partner, the Australian Hydrogen Forum, for making this series possible.There’s going to be plenty more discussion of all things H2 during Australian Energy Week. On June 8th, several key hydrogen industry players will gather again to discuss the future of hydrogen as part of Australian energy mix. More details here: https://energyweek.com.au/
Welcome to the latest episode of our mini-series on Australia’s hydrogen future, produced in collaboration with the Australian Hydrogen Forum.So far on Michelson Alexander’s hydrogen mini-series, we’ve covered production, commercialisation, and the future of renewable gas in your home and on this episode, we discuss hydrogen in a much broader context.The global search for renewable fuels is of course, driven by a need to lower carbon emissions. That need means that every part of the energy sector must transition. Hydrogen, then, is one piece in a very big puzzle.Our guest, Jim Snow, is an Executive Director of Oakley Greenwood, a firm that, among other things, models different renewable energy scenarios. Jim will discuss some of the key questions we’ve been discussing surrounding the future of H2, but most importantly, he’ll help you to understand where hydrogen best fits in the broader energy mix.Keep tabs on your podcast feeds for our next episode, where we'll be discussing another hot topic in the H2 space – the potential for a Guarantee of Origin scheme. Joining us will be Cameron Mathie, Manager of Future Carbon Markets at the Clean Energy Regulator.Finally, thanks to our partner, the Australian Hydrogen Forum, for making this series possible.There’s going to be plenty more discussion of all things H2 during Australian Energy Week. On June 8th, several key hydrogen industry players will gather again to discuss the future of hydrogen as part of Australian energy mix. More details here: https://energyweek.com.au/
Welcome to the latest episode of our mini-series on Australia’s hydrogen future, produced in collaboration with the Australian Hydrogen Forum.On this episode, you’re going to hear from Alex McIntosh from ARENA, and Justin Nash from BP.A key question they are pondering is: what can be done to make hydrogen commercially viable?Where is investment needed to scale up production? Should hydrogen production, or hydrogen demand, come first? And how is government working with industry to promote the hydrogen economy?Guest Timings:Alex McIntosh, Director, ARENA (0:35)Justin Nash, Senior Manager, Integrated Decarbonisation Solutions, BP (13:40)Keep tabs on your podcast feeds for our next episode, featuring Jim Snow from Oakley Greenwood. Jim’s work modelling different energy scenarios means that he has a well-informed view of hydrogen’s role within the broader energy transition.Finally, thanks to our partner, the Australian Hydrogen Forum, for making this series possible.There’s going to be plenty more discussion of all things H2 during Australian Energy Week. On June 8th, several key hydrogen industry players will gather again to discuss the future of hydrogen as part of Australian energy mix. More details here: https://energyweek.com.au/
Welcome to the third episode of our mini-series on Australia’s hydrogen future!We’re moving through the questions that need to be answered to secure Australia’s hydrogen future, and now it’s time to talk about hydrogen in the home.How, and when, can you expect to have a hydrogen-powered shower or stovetop?The Australian Gas Infrastructure Group has set a bold vision to decarbonise their networks around Australia by 2040. So, how will they do it?On this episode, AGIG CEO Craig de Laine will lay out the plan for you, from the blending projects that are already underway, to the steps required to scale up.Next up on Michelson Alexander Explains… we’ll be discussing the commercialisation of the entire sector with Alex McIntosh from ARENA, and Justin Nash from bP.Finally, thanks to our partner, the Australian Hydrogen Forum, for making this series possible.There’s going to be plenty more discussion of all things H2 during Australian Energy Week. On June 8th, several key hydrogen industry players will gather again to discuss the future of hydrogen as part of Australian energy mix. More details here: https://energyweek.com.au/
Welcome to the second episode of our mini-series on Australia’s hydrogen future!In collaboration with the Australian Hydrogen Forum in Sydney, Michelson Alexander Senior Associates James Fitzpatrick and Elyse Gatt caught up with political and industry leaders to discuss what’s next for the hydrogen economy.In this episode, we're taking you through some of the technologies that can help us to produce more H2 at a lower cost, something that will be vital to scale-up the entire sector.Talk of electrolysis and methane pyrolysis can seem a little overwhelming. Thankfully, you'll be hearing from Roger Knight, the Managing Director of Energys, and Chris Dunks, the managing director of Synergen Met.Roger and Chris will walk you through the technical complexities, so you can turn your mind to the market impacts of cost-effective H2 production.GUEST TIMINGS:Roger Knight, the Managing Director of Energys (1:23)Chris Dunks, the managing director of Synergen Met (15:10)Next up on Michelson Alexander Explains…, we'll be discussing AGIG's H2 vision, and their plans for H2 in your home, with their CEO, Craig de Laine. Make sure you subscribe so you don't miss the episode.Finally, thanks to our partner, the Australian Hydrogen Forum, for making this series possible.There’s going to be plenty more discussion of all things H2 during Australian Energy Week. On June 8th, several key hydrogen industry players will gather again to discuss the future of hydrogen as part of Australian energy mix. More details here: https://energyweek.com.au/
Welcome to the first episode of our mini-series on Australia’s hydrogen future!In collaboration with the Australian Hydrogen Forum in Sydney, Michelson Alexander Senior Associates James Fitzpatrick and Elyse Gatt caught up with political and industry leaders to discuss what’s next for the hydrogen economy.In this episode, you will to hear the voices of the Honourable Lily d’Ambrosio, Victoria’s Energy Minister; the Honourable Mick de Brenni, Queensland’s Minister for Hydrogen; Jordan McCollum, National Policy Manager for the Australian Pipes and Gas Association; and Kobad Bhavnagri, the Head of Strategy for Bloomberg NEF.These four will step you through the themes that dominated discussions at the forum in Sydney, from the war in Ukraine, which has turned the energy market on its head, to the ongoing debate within energy circles about the respective merits of blue and green hydrogen.GUEST TIMINGS:The Hon. Mick de Brenni, Queensland’s Minister for Hydrogen (1:55)Kobad Bhavnagri, the Head of Strategy for Bloomberg NEF (6:50)The Hon. Lily d’Ambrosio, Victoria’s Energy Minister (19:15)Jordan McCollum, National Policy Manager for the Australian Pipes and Gas Association (22:50)Next up on Michelson Alexander Explains…, we’ll be discussing some of the cutting-edge technology that can change the hydrogen production game with Chris Dunks from Synergen Met, and Roger Knight from Energys.Finally, thanks to our partner, the Australian Hydrogen Forum, for making this series possible.There’s going to be plenty more discussion of all things H2 during Australian Energy Week. On June 8th, several key hydrogen industry players will gather again to discuss the future of hydrogen as part of Australian energy mix. More details here: https://energyweek.com.au/
An introduction to Michelson Alexander's mini-series on Australia’s Hydrogen Future, prepared in collaboration with the Australian Hydrogen Forum
The Winter Olympics in Beijing have finished, and one of the lead headlines was that several nations opted not to send any government representatives, mostly in protest of alleged human rights abuses by the Chinese Government against the Uyghur population in Western China’s Xinjiang region.The United States instigated the diplomatic boycott, shortly joined by Canada, Australia, the UK, India, Lithuania, Kosovo, Belgium, Denmark and Estonia. Athletes from these countries are still allowed to compete. France and South Korea have said they will not be participating in the diplomatic boycott.The International Olympic Committee has always maintained its political neutrality however the Olympics have often been used to make political statements, such as the boycotting of the Moscow Olympics in 1980 during the height of the Cold War.This week on Michelson Alexander Expains... we explore the diplomatic boycotts and whether they are likely to achieve anything.HOSTS: Steve Michelson, Founder & Director of Michelson Alexander; Elyse Gatt, Senior Associate & Jack Banister, Head of Content
In a time where people are hungry for more binge-worthy TV dramas, the sport of Tennis has provided in spades, offering a legal drama that not even Netflix could script.World No.1 tennis player, Novak Djokovic was deported from Australia on the opening day of the first Grand Slam event of 2022, the Australian Open. And while the tennis tournament rolls on, questions around immigration laws, proper governance, international relations, the role of celebrity and the long term effects of the COVID-19 crisis rumble away in its wake.In this episode of Michelson Alexander Explains… we will explore the “Novax Saga” in three parts. First, we will explore the process that led to Djokovic’s deportation, then we will analyse - from a strategic communications viewpoint - the performance of each of the major stakeholders and finally predict the fall out from such a major international political event.Our special guest today is MA Special Advisor Dr Abul Rizvi.Abul is the former Deputy Secretary of the Department of Immigration, and of the Department of Communications.During his career, Abul was awarded the Public Service Medal and the Centenary Medal for services to the development and implementation of Australian immigration policy. He recently completed a PHD on immigration via the University of Melbourne.HOSTS: Sabrine Navarro, Michelson Alexander Associate & James Fitzpatrick, Michelson Alexander Senior Associate
Michelson Alexander along with clients, family and friends meet to celebrate the year that was and amongst the festive season cheer, people were invited to reflect on their biggest learnings from 2021 and forecast what's ahead in 2022.Hosts: Jack Banister, Michelson Alexander Head of Content & Sabrine Navarro, Michelson Alexander AssociateGuests: Steve Michelson, Michelson Alexander Founder and Director; Hugh McFarlane, align.me Founder & CEO; James Fitzpatrick, Michelson Alexander Senior Associate & Head of Operations; Steve Staikos, Mayor at Kingston City Council; Greg Chipp, Drug Policy Australia Chairman and Managing Director; Abul Rizvi, Michelson Alexander Special Adviser; Monique Dawson, VicForests Chief Executive & Anna Stefanatos, VicForests Director of Communications
This week, we're very lucky to be joined by one of the world's most creative minds to discuss all things artificial intelligence, and big, city-reshaping tech.Assaf Biderman has a big CV. He is the CEO and co-founder of transportation robotics company Superpedestrian, a client of ours. And he is a founding member and Associate Director of the Senseable City Lab at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).On this episode, we pick Assaf's brain about the ways A.I. is already being used (hint: it's way more than you might think) and quiz him about how A.I. can work for the public good, and how new technology can unlock more liveable cities right across the globe.Host: Jack Banister, Michelson Alexander Head of ContentGuests: Assaf Biderman, CEO & Co-Founder Superpedestrian; Andrew Stewart, Michelson Alexander Senior Associate & Sabrine Navarro, Michelson Alexander AssociateIf you’re interested in strategic communications advice for your business, the Michelson Alexander team is here to help. Get in touch with us:Website: https://michelsonalexander.com.au/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/michelsonalexa/Twitter: https://twitter.com/michelsonalexa
A year ago, during Victoria's second COVID lockdown, residents began using the Northcote Public Golf Course in Melbourne’s inner-north for leisure.At the time, golf was banned, and so, fairways usually kept for mulligans and birdie putts became the site for puppy walks and picnics.Now there's an ongoing debate about how the land should be used. Darebin Council this week opened consultations to discuss the future use of the course. Shared use or less holes are some of the options being considered.It’s an issue playing out elsewhere in Australia. In Sydney, Lord Mayor Clover Moore launched a similar campaign in 2020 to cut Moore Park Golf Course from 18 holes to 9.The Michelson Alexander team has been watching this issue unfold, and today, we're using it as a case study to explore public relations strategies, how opposing sides can compromise on hyperlocal issues, and what makes a successful grassroots campaign.Host: Jack Banister, Michelson Alexander Head of ContentGuests: Al Whittle, Michelson Alexander Associate & Nazli Bahmani, Michelson Alexander Internal Communications SpecialistIf you’re interested in strategic communications advice for your business, the Michelson Alexander team is here to help. Get in touch with us:Website: https://michelsonalexander.com.au/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/michelsonalexa/Twitter: https://twitter.com/michelsonalexa
The pandemic is once again the force that is driving most of the stories on the front pages, and there's plenty at stake for politicians, businesses, and citizens alike.This week, Michelson Alexander's Jack Banister and Shannon Gill are joined by Jen Hewett, the Australian Financial Review's National Affairs Columnist.Jen has followed the pandemic since March 2020, and we’ll chat to her about how our leaders have responded to it and communicated during it, and how the media have covered these leaders and their messages.Topics discussed in this episode:* How leadership has changed throughout the pandemic. * What has the pandemic revealed about the Federation? * Andrews, Berejiklian, and Morrison - what has worked for them, and what has failed? * Have the goal posts shifted when it comes to public expectations of our leaders? How? * Has Delta delayed or derailed Australia’s economic recovery? Does it depend on who you ask, or is it too early to tell? * How will the last two years shape the next twenty?
If you’re interested in strategic communications advice for your business, the Michelson Alexander team is here to help. Get in touch with us via our website, LinkedIn or Twitter.Hosts: Jack Banister, Michelson Alexander Head of Content & Shannon Gill, Michelson Alexander Senior AssociateGuest: Jen Hewett, Australian Financial Review's National Affairs ColumnistJen has been working in journalism since the 1970s, when she began as a cadet. Her career has taken her to a range of publications, from the Sydney Morning Herald to The Australian, and has also included stints in Washington, New York, and Canberra. She holds a Master of Journalism from Columbia University’s Journalism School.
The pandemic is once again the force that is driving most of the stories on the front pages, and there's plenty at stake for politicians, businesses, and citizens alike.In this mini-series of MA Explains... we're exploring the different factors in the COVID recovery process.Today's guest is Dr Paul Guerra. He is the CEO of the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Victoria’s peak business group, a role he took over in February 2020.Today's conversation centres around one key premise: what does business expect from government through the pandemic?Topics discussed in this episode: What was the Chamber's response to the Victorian COVID-19 Recovery Road Map * How important is it to provide an alternative when you’re contesting government policy? * How do you balance that health challenge with the challenge COVID-19 poses to businesses? * How important is it to given a 'north star' to motivate people to change behaviour? * What role should businesses play on the matter of vaccine uptake?*
If you’re interested in strategic communications advice for your business, the Michelson Alexander team is here to help. Get in touch with us via our website, LinkedIn or Twitter.Hosts: Jack Banister, Michelson Alexander Head of Content & Shannon Gill, Michelson Alexander Senior AssociateGuest: Paul Guerra
The pandemic is once again the force that is driving most of the stories on the front pages, and there's plenty at stake for politicians, businesses, and citizens alike.In this mini-series of MA Explains... we're exploring the different factors in the COVID recovery process.Today's guest is Dr Andrés Noé. He's a medical doctor, a Rhodes scholar and one of the clinicians involved with the development and trialing of the AstraZeneca vaccine.As well as vast experiences working on malaria and malaria vaccines, Noé has also spent a decade focused on the health and wellbeing of children and adolescents. He has now developed high-level COVID-19 expertise via various projects, and led contact tracing teams in the UK. He is currently working at The Royal Melbourne Hospital.Topics discussed in this episode: What can Australians expect in the next 12 months? * How has the COVID response in Australia differed to the UK response? * Why does vaccine hesitancy occur and how do we approach it?*
If you’re interested in strategic communications advice for your business, the Michelson Alexander team is here to help. Get in touch with us via our website, LinkedIn or Twitter.Hosts: Jack Banister, Michelson Alexander Head of Content & Shannon Gill, Michelson Alexander Senior AssociateGuest: Dr Andrés Noé
The pandemic is once again the force that is driving most of the stories on the front pages, and there's plenty at stake for politicians, businesses, and celebrities alike.
This week, Michelson Alexander's Senior Associates, James Fitzpatrick and Shannon Gill, dissect the major stories.
What can businesses do to encourage their employees and customers to receive a COVID-19 vaccine?
Why did the public take exception to Scott Morrison's Father's Day trip to Sydney to see his family?
And if they had their moments over again, what would Nadia Bartel and Guy Sebastian do differently?
On Michelson Alexander Explains, we’ve been looking at the Olympics and how the stories of the Games cut through with the public, much of which were in lockdown.This week the Paralympics starts at a time when we are all in need of good news stories. Don Elgin competed at three Paralympics in Athletics and won four medals. He is an amputee, having been born without the lower half of his left leg. He is now the Head of Wallara Online and remains connected to our Paralympic team via StarAmp Global, a management company he founded to support amputee athletes.Don joins us to talk about what the Paralympic movement has meant to his life, the messaging around disability, and how the moment in the media spotlight the Paralympics will have over the next few weeks can communicate messages far beyond sport.TOPICS:How do the Olympic/Paralympic narratives differ?Do the all-abilities communities see the Paralympics as a time to progress the community at large? What is the overriding message that can be communicated?We celebrate the inclusion the Paralympic Games show – but how can we do better in the other three and a half years, as businesses, leaders, and employees?If you’re interested in strategic communications advice for your business, the Michelson Alexander team is here to help. Get in touch with us via our website, LinkedInorTwitter.Hosts: JackBanister, Michelson Alexander Lead Copywriter & Shannon Gill, Michelson Alexander Senior AssociateGuest: Don Elgin
The Tokyo Olympics marks the end of, this time around, a 5-year cycle for athletes that will result in a well-earned mental and physical break. But the same applies for those that work with the athletes, including communications professionals.Lucy Benjamin has worked across the globe in several sports, but most recently, she's been Australian rowing's communications and government relations manager.Lucy is finishing up at Rowing Australia at the end of the Games, so, in this episode of Michelson Alexander Explains, we talk to Lucy about how the Olympics function from a comms perspective.TOPICS:What was the Olympic experience like, given it wasn't what most might've been expecting?What does the day-to-day of a comms professional look like during the Olympics?Is there much sense of what Is happening outside of the 'Olympic' bubble?How does the communications process work for an Olympic sport? What sort of adjustments do you have to make to fall under the AOC's banner?The Olympics is the peak of media attention and interest from the wider public - from a comms perspective, how important are these two weeks in terms of promotion?What would it have meant if the Olympics had not been staged? What damage would be done to rowing?How do you prepare and position your sport for an Olympic year so that you have maximum impact when that year arrives?How do you convince athletes that telling their stories will help themselves and the sport?If you’re interested in strategic communications advice for your business, the Michelson Alexander team is here to help. Get in touch with us via our website, LinkedInorTwitter.Hosts: Jack Banister, Michelson Alexander Lead Copywriter & Shannon Gill, Michelson Alexander Senior AssociateGuest: Lucy Benjamin
One of the stories of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games has been the strength of the First Nation’s athletes representing Australia.Basketballer Patrick Mills carried the flag; the Matildas posed for a photo with the Aboriginal flag before their first game; and the team uniforms are adorned with Indigenous designs.There are 16 First Nations athletes in Tokyo – a remarkable number given that only 52 First Nations athletes have represented Australia at all Olympic Games.On this episode of Michelson Alexander Explains… Nova Peris, the first Indigenous Australian to win an Olympic gold medal joins to discuss what all organisations, including our Olympic team, can do to let First Nations people to shine.TOPICS:How much has changed for First Nations athletes since 1996?When storytellers are working with First Nations stories, what steps can they take to do so sensitively and in a way that gives subjects control? Is Brisbane in 2032 an opportunity to drive representation on and off the field as we host these Games? How can we help to promote Indigenous excellence in sport, and in everyday life?If you’re interested in strategic communications advice for your business, the Michelson Alexander team is here to help. Get in touch with us via our website, LinkedInor Twitter.Hosts: Jack Banister, Michelson Alexander Lead Copywriter & Shannon Gill, Michelson Alexander Senior AssociateGuest: Nova Peris
The long-overdue 2020 Olympics kicked off on Wednesday, July 21 when Australia was resoundingly thumped by their Japanese hosts on a softball diamond in Fukushima.These Olympics come after months of anything-but-softball from the IOC, which has forged ahead despite repeated outbreaks of COVID-19 globally, and in the host city, Tokyo.On the first episode in a three-part mini-series about the Games, the Michelson Alexander team will be looking at Tokyo 2020 through a strategic communications lens.TOPICS:83% of the Japanese population did not want these Olympics to proceed… What sort of challenge did this context present for the IOC? What was their approach? What sort of narrative should one try to create in this situation? What are the major topics for discussion, now that the Games are underway? What are the key lessons for brands and businesses from these Games? If you’re interested in strategic communications advice for your business, the Michelson Alexander team is here to help. Get in touch with us via our website, LinkedIn, or Twitter.Hosts: Jack Banister, Michelson Alexander Lead Copywriter & Shannon Gill, Michelson Alexander Senior Associate
Michelson Alexander is excited to be launching our new podcast, MichelsonAlexander Explains…Our team comes from a diverse array of backgrounds, and has vast experience in a range of sectors, including the media, communications, legal affairs, politics and policy.On the show, we’ll be taking a strategic communications lens to the stories you’ll find on the front page of your morning paper and talking to the movers and shakers that are breaking and making those stories.You can expect to hear interviews with prominent Australians, explainer episodes on key government policies, and analysis from our team about whatever crisis has been leading the six o’clock bulletins.We’ll pull back the curtain to show you how and why news and policies are made, what’s really happening behind the scenes, and how it affects you and your business.