The Vietnam Australia Centre (VAC) recently concluded its second Foundational Partners Knowledge Exchange, empowering 18 senior Vietnamese government officials with practical insights to advance public sector reform. Held from 27 September to 8 October 2025, the program spanned Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, and Geelong, combining site visits, policy dialogues, and cultural exchange.
Participants explored key reform themes—digital transformation, inclusive leadership, public-private partnerships, and citizen-centric service delivery—through direct engagement with institutions such as the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the Productivity Commission, Parliament House, and Deakin University’s Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute.
“This Knowledge Exchange reflects the deepening ties between Australia and Vietnam,” said Ms Renee Deschamps, Deputy Head of Mission at the Australian Embassy in Vietnam. “We are proud to support Vietnam’s public sector reform journey and remain committed to strengthening our bilateral partnership.”
Delegates returned with renewed energy and actionable ideas. Inspired by Australia’s performance dashboards and citizen feedback systems, several participants plan to explore similar mechanisms in their home institutions. Others aim to adapt inclusive HR practices to promote gender equity and merit-based recruitment. The visit to the North East Link Tolling Corporation sparked interest in applying public-private partnership models to Vietnam’s infrastructure development.
Assoc Prof Nguyen Xuan Phong, Head of the Vietnamese delegation, shared: “This trip was more than a study tour—it was a meaningful experience that broadened our perspectives and deepened our understanding of governance, social policy, and digital transformation. We return with new ideas and renewed commitment to apply what we’ve learned in our own institutions.”
Discussion with the State Government of Victoria on digital transformation and public-private partnerships.
Victoria’s Whitehorse Council shared experiences in local governance and community development.
Exploring how technology can drive public sector innovation at Deakin University’s Applied Artificial Intelligence Initiative and Battery Hub
The exchange also strengthened institutional ties. Delegates from ministries, academia, and local governments built lasting connections with Australian counterparts, laying the groundwork for future collaboration in policy development and leadership training.
Ms Jo Talbot, First Assistant Commissioner, Workplace Reform and Diversity Executive at the Australian Public Service Commission, shared Australia’s approach to strengthening public sector leadership.
Mr Luong Anh Tan, Deputy Director General, Department of Legal Affairs, Office of Government presents his experiences and learning at the Closing Ceremony in Hanoi.
Delegates at the Closing Ceremony in Hanoi
Delivered in partnership with Deakin University and TET Education Group, the Knowledge Exchange is a launchpad for reform. It equips Vietnam’s public sector leaders to translate global insights into local action, shaping a more inclusive, accountable, and innovative governance landscape.
