Peter Shergold AC is an esteemed Australian public servant and academic, renowned for his distinguished contributions to the fields of public administration and higher education. Born on August 23, 1946, Shergold embarked on a remarkable career marked by unwavering dedication to public service and social progress.

Shergold's illustrious career began with his academic pursuits, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from the University of Sydney and later completed his Doctor of Philosophy at the London School of Economics. Armed with a profound understanding of social policy and public administration, he transitioned into the realm of public service.

Throughout his extensive tenure, Shergold held numerous influential positions within the Australian government, including serving as Secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet from 2003 to 2008, a role in which he played a pivotal role in shaping national policies and strategies. His leadership and strategic vision were instrumental in guiding the government through a period of significant economic and social change.

Beyond his governmental responsibilities, Shergold has made significant contributions to the academic community. He has held prominent academic positions at leading universities, including the University of Sydney and Australian National University, where he has imparted his wealth of knowledge and expertise to future generations of public servants and scholars.

Shergold's dedication to public service and commitment to excellence have been widely recognized and honored. In 2005, he was appointed as a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) for his eminent service to the public sector, particularly through the advancement of economic and social policy development. His numerous accolades and awards stand as a testament to his enduring legacy and profound impact on Australian society.

Today, Peter Shergold AC continues to be a respected figure in both the public and academic spheres, advocating for evidence-based policy making, social justice, and effective governance. His unwavering passion for improving the lives of Australians and his tireless pursuit of excellence serve as an inspiration to all those who aspire to make a positive difference in the world.

Director | Advisor | GAICD

Bob Macdonald is a seasoned communications professional with a distinguished background spanning journalism, government advisory and international trade. His career includes roles as a business journalist and editor, newspaper columnist, ministerial advisor and Austrade Trade Commissioner. Over several decades, he has supported companies, government agencies, senior politicians and business leaders to communicate with clarity, impact and strategic purpose.

Bob is highly skilled in translating complex or bureaucratic language into clear, persuasive and accessible material, from media releases to annual reports. He is also an accomplished speechwriter, known for crafting incisive and engaging speeches tailored to diverse audiences and settings. In addition, he brings extensive experience as a public presenter and MC for business events.

His career highlights include more than 30 years as a journalist and editor with publications such as The Australian Financial Review, Business Review Weekly and The Courier-Mail, along with media work in North America. He served as a business policy advisor and speechwriter to Queensland Premier Wayne Goss, and later as Chief of Staff to Minister Mark Bailey during the first-term Palaszczuk Government. As Austrade Trade Commissioner, he represented Australia in Mexico and Chile.

Most recently, Bob was Communications Manager for Trade and Investment Queensland. He now leads his own consultancy, MacDonald Publishing Pty Ltd, providing strategic communications advice and services to clients across sectors.

Owner/Director, Cohere Projects; active industry body representative

Executive Director at Therefor Group and Co-founder and CEO of YIMBY Qld