Smart Cities Chronicles

Ingram Micro Cloud: The digital transformation of cities and citizens Nov 11, 2022

AWS and Ingram Micro have a full complement of strong partners in the IoT consulting ISV space and have been active in this area for about 10 years.

The specific goal is to accelerate projects that that benefit both cities, all the stakeholders and solution providers.

Hear more from Nathan Washington and Smart Cities Council's Philip Bane as they discuss cities going from concept to implementation.

Episode 95: NSW Department of Planning and Environment: Movement and Place Jun 06, 2022

In this episode Interim Executive Director for ANZ Jannat Maqbool talks to Mark Yee and Ben Cebuliak from the New South Wales Department of Planning and Environment. As precincts start to adopt the newly released Movement and Place framework and apply the principles and practices, where can we look forward to seeing the greatest impact and what are the key challenges and opportunities? Let's dive in.

Quick Deploy Zero Trust Cybersecurity Mar 10, 2022

oin Junaid Islam, CTO of XQ Msg as he advocates for quick-deploy cybersecurity.

Episode 93: Water Equity Feb 10, 2022

Learn about the essentials of water equity - availability, potability and affordability.

Episode 94: Future of Cybersecurity is 'Frictionless Zero Trust Data' Feb 10, 2022

Cybersecurity can be frictionless if it starts with the data and is network agnostic.

Episode 92: Clean Air Pays Feb 10, 2022

Join Julie Pelletier, North American Regional Manager for Ecomesure as she reviews how clean air delivers multiple benefits to communities - and that with the upcoming EPA Community Air Pollution Grant pays for itself.

Episode 91: What we need to know for a 'digital by default' infrastructure sector in Australia Dec 24, 2021

In this extended episode we share a recording from the opening plenary session at Digital Twin Week 2021. Moderated by Gavin Cotterill (Consulting Director Asia Pacific, PCSG), this dialogue followed a keynote presentation from Romilly Madew AO (CEO of Infrastructure Australia) that shared key outcomes and recommendations from the recently released Australia Infrastructure Plan, including gits call for the nation's infrastructure to be 'digital by default'. This panel session was a response to that aspiration, with three industry leaders coming together to unpack what that might mean. The panel guests were Richard Morrison (Practice Lead Information and Communications Technology ANZ, AECOM), Meredith Hodgman (Associate Director Places and Partnerships, KPMG) and Henry Okraglik (Global Director Digital, WSP).

Future of Place S1E8: Tech and data, and planning. Let's discuss... Dec 17, 2021

In this episode we hear from three PlanTech champions, each from differing sectors (public, private and academia), passionate about the future of the planning profession. Claire Daniel, Prugya Maini and Sacha Nicholls share their views on the role of digital and data in the planning process and the opportunity for planners, the capability uplift required and the good things ahead on the PlanTech journey. All three of our guests are representatives of the Planning Institute of Australia PlanTech Young Professionals Working Group.

Episode 90: 5G readiness for cities Dec 09, 2021

We have all heard about the next generation telecommunication network - 5G. It's happening. But there is still more to come, for consumers, industry sectors and government. In this highly informative podcast episode, Ian Hatton (Smart City Lead at Complete Urban) walks us through some of the key attributes of being 5G 'ready'. We discuss potential impacts, risks, opportunities and what next might look like if your a local Council trying to navigate the space.

Episode 89: Preparing the market for Infrastructure 4.0 Dec 06, 2021

Welcome to the first of a number of special interviews as part of our Digital Twin series. In this episode we chat with Graeme Henderson - Global Practice Director at GHD Digital - on the demands that Infrastructure 4.0 is presenting to the market, and how we will benefit from the digital transformation of the infrastructure sector. Of course we talk about Digital Twin capability, but also how we resource this transformation process. As someone responsible for a global organisation's capabilities in digital engineering, Graeme brings a view that is pragmatic, yet keeps a keen eye on what's coming over the horizon.

Future of Place S1E7: Where to next for the 20min neighbourhood? Oct 15, 2021

In this episode, we are joined by James Mant, Director of Places and Precincts at the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning in the Victorian government. As one of the nation's leading policymakers and advocates for 20min neighbourhoods, it is a timely catch up with James to discuss post-COVID musings on the relationships between people and place, and how the 20min neighbourhood model can be an underpinning of smarter and more sustainable communities.

Episode 88: NatureTech or not, here it comes... Sep 01, 2021

In this episode we explore the NatureTech movement that is bringing technology, data and nature together at an eyewatering pace, and get hands on with the types of platforms bring us a new yet critical data set for urban planning. Thomas Gooch and Fang Yuan from OPO (the Office of Planetary Observations) share with us advancements in satellite imagery and data computation/analytics and how its providing the new green infrastructure data sets and insights that all city planners can now access.

Future of Place S1E6: Gamification and data-inspired communities Aug 29, 2021

In this episode we are joined by David Catalovski from GreenBe to share the latest approaches to community participation in our communities, and how the data gathered through emerging gamification platforms can enable the future of place.

Future of Place S1E5: Rebuilding the urban freight delivery model Aug 28, 2021

In this episode we are joined by Anne Goodchild from the University of Washington to unpack the Seattle Neighbourhood Delivery Hub and discuss all things urban and micro freight and what it means for the future of place.

Future of Place S1E4: Creating immersive place based data sets with mobile laser scanning Aug 24, 2021

In this episode we are joined by Brad Chambers from Veris to discuss mobile laser scanning and how such an intensive and accurate data collection method enables us to create immersive place-based data sets.

Episode 87: Checking-in on digital enablement in the built environment Aug 18, 2021

What happens when you decide to have a conversation on smart cities, Building Information Modelling, Digital Twin and digital engineering with Rebecca De Cicco, Digital Operations Principal with Aurecon? Well, you will have to listen in. Be prepared for plenty of dialogue on the role of standards in industry transformation, what from the UK might rub off on Australia and New Zealand and where key opportunities lie in shaping digital enablement at an organisational level.

Future of Place S1E3: Infrastructure as a place enabler Aug 17, 2021

In this episode we are joined by Jonathan Cartledge and Helen Machalias from Infrastructure Australia to discuss national infrastructure policy and the future of place

Future of Place S1E2: New mobility - what? Aug 13, 2021

In this episode, we are joined by Lisa Nisensen from WGI in Florida to discuss new mobility and the future of place.

Future of Place S1E1: The big picture Aug 11, 2021

In this episode we open up with the idea behind the Future of Place project, and what the merging relationships are between people, place, technology and data. Lucinda Hartley (Co-founder of Neighbourlytics) joins us to share her most recent experiences with data-inspired city shaping and what we are to expect as the Future of Place project evolves.

Episode 86: The New Zealand Digital Twin Summit Debrief Jul 20, 2021

The inaugural New Zealand Digital Twin Summit was hosted in Wellington on Thursday 8th July 2021. Close to 100 policy makers, practitioners and academics gathered for a day of intensive dialogue and workshopping to set direction on building a thriving marketplace for this powerful data activation capability. We are joined by Aurecon's Digital Practice Lead for New Zealand, Keri Niven and SCCANZ's Jannat Maqbool, Director of New Zealand as we walk through the program and share the key highlights.

Future of Place S1: The Terms of Reference Jan 12, 2021

In this session we share our goals for the Future of Place project, and where it can from. We outline some of the technology and data innovations and enablers that are intersecting with place, and how there are opportunities to shape the best places for people that are still yet to be realised. This session also provides an overview on the Future of Place Handbook - why its being created and how. Join us as we explore the future of place.

Episode 85: The smart cities marketplace, a 2020 review Dec 20, 2020

In this episode of the Chronicles we celebrate our smart cities momentum, and the journey that 2020 has been for the movement. Off the back of the 2020 Australia New Zealand Smart Cities awards, we dig deep into the advancements we have made, the market opportunities and where we still have ground to make up. Meredith Hodgman from the Internet of Things Alliance, and Jury Chair for the Smart Cities Awards joins us to recap the year, review our standing and suggest some focus areas for 2021 and beyond.

Episode 84: Scaling up your start ups, top tips for cities Oct 28, 2020

Adrian Brossard is Co-Founder of Yellowbox, a smart cities startup looking to help cities solve some pretty common challenges when it comes to public place personal storage. This is his story. These are his ideas when it comes to startups working with their local authorities. JOin us in this episode of the Chronicles for an authentic account of the startup journey, and the opportunities for both local Council and startup company when it comes to accelerating great outcomes for the community by using technology and data solutions that are customer centric.

Episode 83: The fundamentals of 'Data Exchange' Oct 28, 2020

In this episode we pull back the curtain on the concept of 'data exchange', and how you can establish the conditions for creating opportunities and value from data. CEO of Civic Analytica, Merrick Spain, breaks down the concept for us and shares his views on how we can build a culture to exploit the world's most abundant resource - data. And its all about 'data for good', as Merrick describes, as he places data exchange in context with open data and also data sharing. Join us for this no-nonsense discussion on how we can practically use data exchange as a method for building the highly desirable idea of a data economy.

Episode 82: The NSW Government's Smart Infrastructure Strategy Oct 12, 2020

It is rare that the smart cities policy enthusiasts among us get excited, but from time to time there will be a cause for celebration. And in July 2020 the NSW Government delivered us the 'Smart Infrastructure Policy' - what we would certainly identify as a reason to be excited. Join us as we unpack this leading example of smart infrastructure policy, certainly a first for Australia. Helping us review the Policy is this episode is Henry unpack the strategy is Henry Okraglik, Global Director of WSP Digital. We work our way through the document and reflect on the wider marketplace opportunities.

Episode 81: Sidewalk data and placemaking strategy Oct 12, 2020

Join our three guests for a briefing on all things pedestrian sensing, placemaking and a post COVID world that continues to rely on thoughtful planning and urban design of our communities. In this Episode we are joined by Catherine Caruana-McManus (Meshed IoT), Professor Pascal Parez (University of Wollongong SMART Infrastructure Facility) and Stephanie Kelly (City of Canada Bay) as we discuss the findings of Australia's most comprehensive pedestrian counting research projects, and what was highlighted in the data. How cities and communities respond to the emerging challenges around managing place is discussed from a technology perspective, research perspective and a place management perspective.

Episode 80: On our physical and digital footprint, there is a new normal Sep 09, 2020

In this one-on-one session with Neighbourlytics Co-Founder Lucinda Hartley, we unpack a recent report they have tabled on the idea of 'The New Normal'. The insights report compares Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne on key trends from COVID-19 and what it means for five key at-risk industries and in-demand assets - public space, hospitality, creative industries, attractions and wellness and and beauty.

Episode 79: Australia's Cyber Security Strategy 2020 Sep 02, 2020

2020 will go down as a year of extremes. Many challenges have and will continue to be experienced, but it also becomes an important opportunity to improve and thrive. And in Australia, a new Cyber Security Strategy was released to provide the nation with a clear set of initiatives to deliver on the vision - "A more secure online environment for Australian's." Joining us to unpack the strategy is Mal Frampton, Cyber Security consultant with SAGE Group.

Episode 78: Data literacy for smart cities Sep 02, 2020

In a year that has demonstrated the power of data, or the need for greater insights, it is no surprise that data literacy has raised its head. For some, generating insights from data supported recovery decisions and investments. For others, they didn't have the data they really needed. So what can we learn about our data literacy and what can we do to strengthen it in a post-COVID world? Michelle Teis who is a Partner at GWI joined us on the Chronicles to break down the data literacy fundamentals - what it is, why we need it and how to do it. Along the way we reflect on some key topics such as small business needs in terms of data literacy, and how you might become to build your data resources and capability.

Episode 77: The 20 Minute City as a tool for economic stimulus Jul 14, 2020

What is the idea behind the '20 Minute City', and how might it become a key opportunity for post-crisis economic recovery? Well, lets find out! Joining us for this discussion is Jen Baird (General Manager, City Growth) and Iain White (Professor of Environmental Planning). We talk about COVID-19 related economic stimulus, and how the 20 Minute City concept is shovel ready for the City of Hamilton and the Waikato region, among other ideas to ensure smart and sustainable growth within the community.

Episode 76: Being smart, when it counts Jun 30, 2020

In this episode we hear from one of Australia's award winning smart cities - Newcastle, NSW - on how their smart cities underpinnings have facilitated the successful deployment of a creative new app to help catalyse economic stimulus and social engagement. Dr Nathaniel Bavinton (Newcastle City Council) and David Catalovski (GreenBe) join the Chronicles to share the story behind the 'Lean in Newy' app. Part community engagement tool, part challenge platform, and part economic stimulus vehicle, the Lean in Newy app is set to deliver some meaningful outcomes in this innovation-led city.

Episode 75: COVID-19, through the lens of a Chief Data Officer Jun 23, 2020

In this episode of the Chronicles Smart Cities Council CEO Philip Bane chats with Carlos Rivero, Chief Data Officer at the Commonwealth of Virginia. Their discussion tracks the origins of the CDO Office, early challenges and the quick wins. Carlos outlines the multitude of efforts put in place to build greater data leadership via data sharing, analytics, stronger governance and a series of data trusts. Carlos also shares his reflections on the work the Office of the CDO implemented in response to the COVID-19 global pandemic.

Episode 74: Let's talk Civic Data Trusts Jun 16, 2020

Welcome to the "Data Dialogues" - an online engagement series as part of Smart Cities Week Australia New Zealand 2020. This dialogue will focus on unpacking the 'civic data trust' - what are they, what can they offer and the pathway for building one. While few data trusts have been deployed and lessons learned shared, much thought leadership does exist, citing the 'tool' as a means to enable better governance around the use of data, and ensuring that its benefits are distributed in an equitable way. Join our dialogue guests - Aimee Whitcroft (data 4d), Jessica Christiansen-Franks (Neighbourlytics) and Dorotea Baljevic (Lendlease) - as we explore the what, why and how of civic data trusts.

Episode 73: Building a city analytics capability Jun 16, 2020

Welcome to the "Data Dialogues" - an online engagement series as part of Smart Cities Week Australia New Zealand 2020 and hosted by the Centre for Data Leadership. This dialogue will focus on unpacking 'city analytics' as a capability for local government - why you would do it, what is the scope and how might you get there. Our guests were: // Chris Isles | Manager Economic Development, Brisbane City Council // Chris Pettit | Professor of Urban Science, University of New South Wales // Libby Harris | Night Time City Manager, City of Sydney // Craig Lawton | Principal Solution Architect - Cloud and IoT, AWS // Keri Niven | Global Digital Collaboration Leader, Aurecon

Episode 72: The two year journey of creating the SmartCityPHL Roadmap Jun 04, 2020

In conversation with Emily Yates, Director of Smart Cities with the City of Philadelphia, we explore the City's newly launched SmartCityPHL and the programs and partnerships driving the adoption of technology and data to realise better community outcomes. Often described as America's largest poorest city, and the birthplace of democracy, Philadelphia's journey in smart cities started back in 2017 and has resulted in an endorsed program of investments that cover bridging the digital divide, enhanced urban infrastructure, sweating existing assets and establishing a master data strategy.

Episode 71: Innovation districts and our urban development futures May 24, 2020

Over the years there have been waves of 'growth frameworks' - green buildings, sustainable communities, resilient neighbourhoods... In this episode of the Chronicles we sit down with Niall Cunningham - WSP's City Advisory Lead - who takes shares with us his views on the current and emerging models of urban development, including innovation districts, smart communities and other urban and suburban growth models. At a time when our experience and relationship with our cities, their public spaces and shared services have been tested in new ways, we need to ensure we remain outcomes focused and that we measure our impact.

Episode 70: Australia's parliamentary inquiry into 5G - where to next? May 19, 2020

With all the promise and excitement around 5G there is an equal amount of concern and hesitation. In March 2020 the Australian Government published its report ("The Next Gen Future") of findings of the inquiry into the deployment, adoption and application of 5G in Australia. To break it down for us and help highlight the key points, Geof Heydon of Astrolabe Group joined us. We covered communication and citizen engagement, health, infrastructure sharing and the level of 5G literacy across Australia's local government landscape.

Episode 69: The smart city as a pillar of trust May 04, 2020

For the new Mayor of the City of Ipswich, Teresa Harding, there is no mincing of her words when it comes to data, transparency and trust. From open data to open government, Mayor Harding takes her career in technology and data into the realm of local government and sets the bold vision for establishing the nation's first integrity and transparency hub.

Episode 68: Going off campus - Smart cities research partnerships for community impact Apr 19, 2020

This episode of the Chronicles takes us to Atlanta, GA in the United States, where we sit down with Debra Lam who is Managing Director for Smart Cities and Inclusive Innovation at the Georgia Institute of Technology. We discuss the work of the University and its unique approach to external partnerships, and its focus on community outcomes and impact. Leveraging partnership funding to disperse grants to cities across the state is one example, and another is the 'Smart Cities Corps', whereby students are deployed into community to both gain experience while supporting local governments that are resource constrained when it comes to their smart cities work.

Episode 67: Urban planning, technology and disaster-led transformation Apr 08, 2020

Our guest on this episode of the Chronicles, Kate Isles of Infinitum Partners, is an urban planner who has both worked in disaster response, and digital transformation. In her previous role at the Queensland Reconstruction Authority Kate was part of the long term response to one of the State of Queensland's most devastating series of natural disasters. And now, she is deep in the world of e-planning, potentially one of the most significant opportunities to accelerate city development and transformation in a time when agility and speed of economic stimulus is key.

Episode 66: Data, and the rebuild of our cities Apr 08, 2020

Never before has the role of data come into the spotlight. As we are glued to our screens watching the models, bar charts and dashboard refresh, there is data behind the scenes feeding the insights we are so hungry for. In this episode of the Chronicles Neil Glentworth - Director of Community Data - shares insights on how cities can underpin their social and economic rebuild with a data driven approach in the months and years ahead.

Episode 65: City data governance - here's your cheat sheet! Apr 08, 2020

This episode of the Chronicles takes us to Seattle WA in the USA, where we sit down with Kelsey Finch who is Senior Counsel with the Future of Privacy Forum. During this discussion we explore key elements of the 'city data governance' - what it means, what are its key elements and how we can approach our work to ensure that we build greater governance around our management and use of data.

Episode 64: Defined by disruption - how resilience will reshape our cities like never before Apr 01, 2020

With more than 6 years of global resilience thought leadership, city engagement and strategy development in her back pocket, Lauren Sorkin of the Global Resilient Cities Network (GRCN) is indeed working overtime right now. As Executive Director of the GRCN, and previously Managing Director at 100 Resilient Cities - Pioneered by the Rockefeller Foundation, Lauren shares with us in this session how cities around the world right now are adapting and building resilience to the global pandemic brought about by COVID-19. Lauren shares her thoughts around global leadership, transparency and what might come next as we help build the conditions for our cities to thrive again.

Episode 63: The week in data, with Don Sharples of Altometer Business Intelligence Apr 01, 2020

As we continue to discuss the role of data in accelerating sustainable outcomes in our cities, this episode of The Week In Data features a discussion with Don Sharples, Managing Director of Altometer Business Intelligence, appropriately covers data in the world of a global pandemic. Our discussion covers small business recovery, real-time data as a tool and how the values and behaviours of our communities is a more critical data set than ever. And what about innovation? How will this be different in a post COVID-19 world?

Episode 62: Ready > Set > SCALE! Building the conditions for smart region success, the Arizona way... Mar 26, 2020

In this episode we unpack the work being led by Dominic Papa, Vice President of Smart State at the Arizona Commerce Authority. For over seven years Dominic has been helping lead the efforts in building the conditions for scaling smart cities success in the State of Arizona. First with the City of Phoenix, then with the Institute of Digital Progress and now with a collaborative public/private/academic partnership at the Arizona Commerce Authority. We talk tech, we talk data and we talk governance and resilience.

Episode 61: What is smart cities when resilience is the blueprint? Mar 16, 2020

The timing, unfortunately, is perfect for this conversation. A summer bushfire crises, a global health pandemic..... Community resilience has never been as topical as right here and right now. So what is the relationship between smart cities and resilience? What could it be? Well, we explore the connective tissue between these two agenda's in this episode of the Chronicles, with our guest, Kieran Power - National Lead for Resilience and Climate Adaptation at WSP.

Episode 60: The week in data, with Robert Linsdell of Vertiv Mar 15, 2020

Well, there has never been a better time for this discussion! In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have Robert Linsdell from Vertiv join us for this episode of The Week in Data. With Vertiv's brand standing for 'Architects of Continuity', we have a very pointed discussion around resilience, data and what the world might look like when we come through the end of this major global disruption. We dig deep into business continuity, data storage trends and the interface with green building trends.

Episode 59: The week in data, with Andrea Di Giovanni of Neighbourlytics Mar 13, 2020

Do cities value data? Well, this is one of the many questions we unpacked on 'The Week in Data' with Andrea Di Giovanni, the Strategic Projects Lead for our member company Neighbourlytics. In this conversation we also talk about current topical issues such as COVID-19 and how its bringing data insights into our daily lives, as well as social wellbeing as a framework for national decision making, and the data that powers our understanding of how people's quality of life manifests.

Episode 58: Ranking smart cities, and estimating market value... brace yourself Mar 05, 2020

Media headlines fill our feed with those multi-billion dollar estimates of the smart cities market, while cities relentlessly promote their latest ranking in yet another smart cities ranking. But what happens when you look peek behind the curtain, and compare the methodologies, metrics and outcomes? In this Episode on the Chronicles we sit down with Charles Reed-Anderson from Charles Reed-Anderson and Associates who took the time to compare the rankings and market valuations and as a result came up with some interesting conclusions and recommendations.

Episode 57: The week in data, with Dr Vanessa Savage-Douglas of GWI Mar 05, 2020

For this episode of 'the week in data' we invited Dr Vanessa Savage-Douglas from GWI onto the Chronicles. We start the conversation by going back, and reflecting a little on data back in the 90's. We then cover a range of data topics including the 'why' of data, how we move beyond the 'cool' of data, scrutiny of government data management practices and misuse of data, as well as political decisions and the role of data insights.

Episode 56: The week in data, with Priscilla Short of Deloitte Mar 05, 2020

In this second episode of 'the week in data' we sit down with Priscilla Short from Deloitte to discuss what we heard, saw and read on everything on data over the past week. We discuss business intelligence in the context of smart cities, what data fabric is, and investment in 'small' smart cities. We reflect on why cities are not making decisions on smart cities solutions based on data, and why a business case is still an underutilised tool for guiding actions.

Episode 55: The week in data, with Eric Louw of Aurecon Mar 05, 2020

We kick off our first episode in a new series called 'the week in data', with Director of Data Analytics at Aurecon, Eric Louw. We discuss data and its role in the digital transformation in the built environment, where data processing happens and its comparison to human systems and the market demand for AI. We share mutual concerns and observations around privacy and facial recognition, yet agree the benefits of 'sensing' and 'tracking' can have significant benefits when appropriately deployed.

Episode 54: The alliancing approach to smart cities Dec 19, 2019

What tried and tested methods from other sectors can we use for our smart cities projects? In this episode we sit down with Deloitte's Steven Hamilton from Boston MA to explore further their work on bringing 'alliancing' approaches from the infrastructure world into the smart cities agenda. Governance, partnerships, financing and procurement can't be 'unstuck'. Lets embrace that and catalyse more action and investment in smart cities.

Episode 53: Privacy impact assessment for smart cities - the essentials Dec 13, 2019

One of Australia's leading privacy experts - Nicole Stevensen - introduces us to the Privacy Impact Assessment, and why its your best friend when it comes to your smart cities work. In this episode Nicole gives us the essentials on privacy impact assessment - why, what and how. It is critical listening at a time when privacy is such an important topic for policy makers and the community alike.

Episode 52: Where it all began. Reflecting on the origin's of the smart cities movement (Part 3) Oct 28, 2019

In Part 3 of our 'Where it all began' series we go back to 2006 (and a little further) to unearth the urban informatics agenda, with one of the research sectors greatest contributors to smart cities, Professor Marcus Foth from the Queensland University of Technology Design Lab. In this discussion we talk about the 'connective tissue' between technology, people and place, and how the complexities and opportunities of this convergence have changed over the years, and what it means to 'be digital' in the public realm today, with the proliferation of sensing and data gathering.

Episode 51: Behind the scenes on how one global giant delivers services for future cities Oct 27, 2019

We sit down with Amy Baxendale, Regional Human Resources Director for consulting firm Acadis, to chat about building the workforce of the future. From culture and recruitment to capacity building and new partnership models, Amy gives us a glimpse into what a global 27,000 person consulting firm does to keep up with digital transformation.

Episode 50: Lets see what IoT can do, in our community, says City Oct 27, 2019

In this, our 50th episode of the Chronicles, we talk IoT deployment. A problem, an idea, and a partnership. That's what it took for the City of Marion in South Australia to successfully execute on an IoT pilot project that would provide the learning to scale solutions for their 160+ public park assets across the city. Join us as we sit down with Fiona Harvey (Manager of Innovation and Strategy) and Georgie Johnson (Smart Cities Project Officer) from the City of Marion, and Ashby Martin (Smart Cities Lead) from Sage Automation to discuss the Jervois Street Park project.

Episode 49: Where it all began. Reflecting on the origin's of the smart cities movement (Part 2) Oct 21, 2019

In this second interview in our multi-part series on "Where it all began", I sit down with the Founder and Chairman of the Smart Cities Council, Jesse Berst, to explore the organisations eight year journey, and where it all started. Jesse provides the context to why he founded the organisation, and what was happening in the market at the time. We touch on the major advancements for the smart cities movement in the last five years, and muse on the hills we are still yet to climb. Jesse reflects on the work and influence of the Council, and where its trajectory looks like heading. Join us as we look back, to look forward

Episode 48: Where it all began. Reflecting on the origin's of the smart cities movement (Part 1) Oct 17, 2019

In some way's this is a milestone episode for the Chronicles. In this interview we speak with Yasser Helmy, Smart Cities Lead for Asia Pacific with Cisco, one of the global titans in smart cities history. Yasser reflects in this episode where it all started for the company, takes us on a journey through the first decade of the smart cities movement and shares his thoughts on what's next for the agenda.

Episode 47: Leveraging your smart cities dollars - How Columbus Ohio turned $50M into $700M through partnerships Sep 25, 2019

You have probably heard about the $50M smart cities grant awarded to the City of Columbus OH. But have you heard what then happened? In this episode we chat with Jordan Davis from the Columbus Partnership, who is leading the partnership work for this significant smart cities program of work.

Episode 46: The Mayor's perspective, when Councillor Khal Asfour knew smart cities was necessary Sep 20, 2019

In a milestone for the Chronicles we interview our first city Mayor - Councillor Khal Asfour of the City of Canterbury Bankstown, in New South Wales Australia. Of all the cities in the nation, why Canterbury Bankstown? For starters, its the largest local authority in New South Wales, one of the most culturally diverse, is the eighth largest economy in Australia, and has just finished a year long consultation period with its community about how the city will be using technology and data to lift up opportunity and create greater value for its citizens.

Episode 45: The PropTech Project, with Ari Gati from one6zero Sep 18, 2019

In another installment of the PropTech Project, we sit down with Ari Gati, Founder of one6zero, to talk about technology fueling the sustainable modular housing sector. A serial entrepreneur, Ari takes us on his journey through the PropTech industry and how its opportunity to catalyse meaningful sustianability outcomes is primed.

Episode 44: Smart, social places. Is your street furniture data-driven? Sep 18, 2019

In this episode we dive into another case study from the Australian Government Smart Cities and Suburbs program, as we hear from Georges River Council. Their funding was directed to a range of experiments on building a set of internet-connected street furniture products that could support the city's work in master planning important places and places to enhance visitor experience and improve decision making from the city.

Episode 43: Bringing inclusive entrepreneurship to the technology sector, with Jean Case of the Case Foundation Sep 17, 2019

In this Episode of the Chronicles we sit down for a discussion with Jean Case, CEO of the Case Foundation and the first female Chairman of the National Geographic Society. This discussion touches on the idea of 'inclusive entrepreneurship' and unpacks the five 'Be Fearless' principles. This podcast episode was recorded as part of the Smart Cities Week series.

Episode 42: What might conversational AI mean for you, and your city? Aug 08, 2019

This episode unpacks the opportunity of the emerging capability of conversational AI. We speak with Digital Director at Deloitte Consulting in Sydney, Simon Cooper, who is an advisor and author in the digital transformation of government agencies. In this discuss we provide cover the definition of conversational AI, what its benefits are to government and citizens, and some potential use cases for cities.

Episode 41: A walk around the market hall at the 2019 Asia Pacific Cities Summit Aug 08, 2019

Join your host of the Chronicles, Adam Beck, as he walks around the bustling market hall of the 2019 Asia Pacific Cities Summit in Brisbane. He chats with cities, consultants, and technologists on what they are doing to shape smarter and sustainable cities.

Episode 40: Three years of the Smart Cities Council in Australia and New Zealand Aug 08, 2019

Happy birthday to us! In this episode (celebrating our third anniversary in the region) our Executive Director Adam Beck shares the key milestones, activities and discussions the SCC has stewarded in Australia and New Zealand in its very short history. We hope you enjoy this short reflection on what we have been doing to help catalyse action and investment in the smart cities movement.

Episode 39: OnDijon - France's creative partnership model for funding smart cities infrastructure and services Jun 28, 2019

OnDijon is the Project. Suez is one of many partners, with the City of Dijon in France. And performance is the underpinning condition that drives this public-private partnership. In Episode 39 of The Chronicles we speak with Justin Frank (Suez, Australia New Zealand) on the company's continued efforts to build creative partnership models with government to deliver action and investment in smart infrastructure.

Episode 38: Blockchain readiness for cities Jun 26, 2019

In this episode on the Chronicles we feature another organisation participating in the Asia Pacific Cities Summit (Brisbane, 7-10 July 2019). Our discussion is with Katrina Donaghy, CEO of CivicLedger, who are in the business of helping governments to be more accessible, efficient and effective by using smart contract and blockchain technology. In the discussion we unpack the fundamentals, whilst also exploring the benefits to cities and some easy use cases to help get your administration blockchain ready.

Episode 37: The solution formally known as smart street lighting Jun 23, 2019

In the lead up to the 2019 Asia Pacific Cities Summit, we interview some of the leading companies on show. In this interview we chat with Bob Matchett, Co-CEO at ENE-HUB. In a fascinating discussion we reflect on the past three years of the smart street lighting industry, and the arc of evolution in the technology, the business models and the outcomes cities are seeking from their urban infrastructure. Like many industries, smart street lighting does not rest, with it delivering new services and outcomes for cities and citizens everyday.

Episode 36: The Leadership Series - Sunshine Coast Council Jun 23, 2019

This is the first of many in a 'Leadership Series' of interviews, as we check-in on our 2018 Australian Smart Cities Awards program winners, starting with Sunshine Coast Council in Queensland. At the 2018 awards Sunshine Coast Council picked up four awards, in the categories of Digital City Services, Regional Leadership and Smart City of the Year. Michael Whereat, Smart Cities Lead for the Council also picked up Local Government Leader. In this episode we chat with Michael on what's been happening since last year, and what's on the horizon for this smart cities stalwart.

Episode 35: Regional Giants in Smart Cities, The Rockhampton Story Jun 10, 2019

With a Smart Cities Plan approved in 2015, Rockhampton Regional Council has been on the smart cities journey longer than most in Australia. This regional city in Queensland has used technology and data strategies to spark an economic development agenda that has supported its diverse economy - from mining and agriculture to education and tourism. In this episode we hear from Rockhampton's Manager of Corporate and Technology Drew Stevenson, as he takes us back to those early smart cities beginnings in 2015 and shares whats next for the coming year and into 2020.

Episode 34: Among the 100 Smart Cities, The City of Pune leads India's surge Jun 10, 2019

In this episode we are joined by Dr. Rajendra Jagtap, the CEO of Pune Smart City Development Corporation in India, to check-in on how the city is advancing as part of the nations 100 Smart Cities Mission. Whilst the audio is not the best, we do get to have an extensive conversation with Dr Jagtap that covered a range of issues form governance, infrastructure investment, key technology projects and what's next for the leadership city.

Episode 33: But first, Sustainability. The City of Portland's Smart City PDX Program May 13, 2019

In this episode we head to the Pacific North West of the United States, and join Kevin Martin as he takes us on a journey of how the City of Portland (Oregon) has transitioned from smart growth pioneer and green city stalwart, to smart cities leader. We cover issues that matter - social equity, wellbeing and liveablity - and how smart cities technology and data investments are supporting these outcomes.

Episode 32: In Data, We Trust. Zac Bookman on Modern Governments and Transparency May 06, 2019

In this episode we talk with Zac Bookman (Co-Founder & CEO of OpenGov), unpacking the idea of modern government and the role transparency, accountability and data plays in building trust with the community. If oil is the new oil, is transparency our new currency? Zac shares the role of open budgeting in building a modern government and as result, trust with the community.

Episode 31: The PropTech Project, with Kylie Davis from Real Content May 05, 2019

In this episode of the PropTech Project series we talk with Kylie Davis (Head of Policy at Real Estate Institute of New South Wales, CEO at Real Content and Co-Founder at HomePrezzo), we track the PropTech journey from its early real estate days to its innovative and diverse agenda today.

Episode 30: The PropTech Project, with Chungha Cha from Re-Imagining Cities Foundation May 05, 2019

In this episode of the PropTech Project series we talk with Chungha Cha (Co-Founder and Chair of Re-Imagining Cities Foundation), a global smart cities leader with over 30 years experience in finance, real estate and green buildings. As a relentless advocate for PropTech as a platform for smarter, sustainable cities, Cha shares views on PropTech from a global perspective.

Episode 29: The PropTech Project, with Jessica Christiansen-Franks from Neighbourlytics May 05, 2019

In this episode of the PropTech Project series we talk with Jessica Christiansen-Franks (Co-Founder & CEO of Neighbourlytics), who is part of the team behind one of Australia's leading PropTech start-up's. In this interview with Jessica we explore the world of PropTech though the lens of start-up's, but also established property companies. The conversation also covers the important issue around PropTech for purpose.

Episode 28: The PropTech Project, with Paul Bailey from Lendlease May 05, 2019

In this episode of the PropTech Project series we talk with Paul Bailey (Consulting Manager at Lendlease Technology). In his role as Lead for global PropTech for one of the worlds largest property companies, Paul takes us on a journey around property technology past, present and evolving.

Episode 27: The PropTech Project, with Julia Suh from Paper Plain May 05, 2019

In this episode of the PropTech Project series we talk with Julia Suh (Founder & Director of Small Shift, and Founder & CEO of Paper Plain), diving deep into a PropTech start up's perspective of the concept. As an urban strategist and social entrepreneur, and now PropTech start-up Founder, Julia brings some fresh and insightful views to the idea of PropTech for purpose.

Episode 26: The PropTech Project, with Angelica Donati from Donati Immobiliare Group May 05, 2019

In this episode of the PropTech Project series we talk with Angelica Krystle Donati (President and CO of Donati Immobiliare Group, Venture Partner at Concrete VC and Contributor at Forbes Magazine), unpacking PropTech trends around the world, perceptions of what PropTech is and how it is contributing to greater efficiency within the built environment.

Episode 25: The PropTech Project - What's this all about? May 05, 2019

In this short episode the Smart Cities Council's Adam Beck provides an overview of the PropTech project, a series of episodes interviewing leading industry stakeholders (from all over the world) who are at the edge property technology, real estate innovation, place making and urban planning. The goal - unleashing the opportunity for PropTech to be a force of social and environmental change.

Episode 24: Inside the City of San Diego's Performance and Analytics Department May 03, 2019

In this episode we meet the leadership team within the Department of Performance and Data Analytics at the City of San Diego, and hear their journey of building a framework and culture of using data insights, transparency and performance to deliver better citizen services.

Episode 23: Insights from the City of Perth's $2.6M Smart Cities Pilot Mar 23, 2019

With a $2.6M co-funded grant from the Australian Government under the Smart Cities and Suburbs program, the City of Perth has all but wrapped on deploying a suite of technology, data and collaboration solutions to enable scalable outcomes across the City, and its neighbouring jurisdictions. From smart precinct solutions, citizen science IoT applications and safety and security deployments this is certainly a pilot that will leverage multiple social and economic benefits for the community.

Episode 22: #SmartDarwin - Your new Smart Cities Benchmark Mar 13, 2019

On the back of one of Australia's largest smart cities technology and data solution deployments, the City of Darwin is not only walking the talk, its also setting the benchmark. In this episode we chat with the City of Darwin's CEO Scott Waters, who outlines the perfect storm of the Darwin City Deal and the Smart Cities and Suburbs funded project Switching on Darwin. Listen in to hear about what is set to become the new benchmark for smart cities for a region!

Episode 21: Smart cities with meaning, and how to get there Mar 11, 2019

In this episode we hear from Corey Gray, CEO of our partner company LVX Global, on problem definition and how to put smart cities solutions in place to leverage the best possible outcomes for the community. From Adelaide to LA to Dublin, Corey shares his field notes on how cities are establishing a deep understanding of purpose as their first step in kick starting their smart cities roadmap.

Episode 20: The Colorado Smart Cities Alliance - A Blueprint for Scaling Smart Cities Action Feb 20, 2019

In this episode we talk to two smart cities leaders catalysing action and investment in smart cities on a regional scale - across public, private, academic and non-profit sectors. Matthew Bailey (Global Practice Lead for Smart Cities at Arrow Electronics) and Jake Rishavy (VP of Innovation at the Denver South Economic Development Partnership) unpack the journey and the secret ingredients in making the Colorado Smart Cities Alliance a force for smart cities good! The discussion covers everything from governance, trust and collaboration, through to the Collaborative Open Lab being built and its role in transforming the technology testing and procurement process, and its role in helping scale deployments across jurisdictional boundaries.

Episode 19: You're Invited to Western Sydney: Australia's Largest Smart Cities Investment Opportunity Feb 17, 2019

In this Episode we chat with Ally Dench, Executive Director of Community Services and Corporate Support at Wollondilly Shire Council, about the smart cities journey they are on, and how it is leveraging the Western Sydney City Deal. The discussion covers the Smart Shire Strategy Wollondilly is implementing, and how it is part of their mission to build on the energy and opportunity emerging from the projected growth and investment in Western Sydney. The discussion also outlines what has become Australia's largest smart cities investment opportunity - the Digital Western Parkland City.

Episode 18: Feature City Insights - The City of San Diego, California Feb 13, 2019

In this Episode of the Chronicles we chat with Erik Caldwell, Deputy Chief Operating Officer at the City of San Diego in California, about the innovation and creativity culture the City has helped build with the community, business and academia. With the 2018 Smart Cities Week west coast conference just months away, we wanted to go behind the scenes and get some insights into our host city, and what makes them contenders for one of the smartest cities in the United States.

Episode 17: The Digital Twin: What, Why and How. Feb 11, 2019

In this episode we discuss the concept of the Digital Twin, with Aurecon's NSW Asset Management Leader, Matt Aberline. The discussion charts a course from the underpinnings of building informational modelling, and digital design of assets, to the emergence of the Digital Twin as a platform for testing and experiencing changes in a digital replica of your city. The discussion addresses key opportunities for using a Digital Twin, what the benefits are and how you would commence your journey of adopting a Digital Twin for your city.

Episode 15: Quicktake: And then there was PlanTech Feb 01, 2019

In this 'Quicktake' episode we unpack some issues that are leading to an emerging PlanTech agenda. Chris Isles, Director at Place Design Group, joins us in sharing a range of views around the intersection of our digital, physical and natural worlds, and how we plan for these now rapidly converging issues in our cities and towns.

Episode 16: Essential Reading: Smarter Cities 2025, a Smart Cities Business Case Jan 29, 2019

Our second 'Essential Reading' episode takes us to London, as we discuss the Smarter Cities 2025 report with Mark Saunders, Director of the Centre of Excellence for Cities at Ferrovial. As we unpack this report we discover the robust business case modelling behind what could be the most comprehensive smart cities business cases available at the present time. The research shows the return on investment for multiple smart cities 'verticals', as well as future projected adoption of key technologies and their value contribution to government savings.

Episode 14: Essential Reading: The Top 50 Smart City Governments Jan 29, 2019

In our first 'Essential Reading' episode we chat with Calvin Chu from the Eden Strategy Institute in Singapore, and discuss the outcomes of their research contained in the report "Top 50 Smart City Governments." Our discussion with Calvin covers their methodology in establishing the criteria for city government ranking, the results of the scoring as well as the key insights coming from the data. Key issues discussed included smart city financing, governance and digital inclusion.

Episode 13: Smart Cities Strategy, with City of Canterbury Bankstown (Australia) Jan 29, 2019

Continuing our series on smart cities 'Strategy', we chat with City of Canterbury Bankstown's Digital Innovation (Smart Cities) Program Manager, Petrhyce Donovan. This episode takes a deep dive into the City's "SMART CBCity Roadmap", which outlines their commitment and proposed action on smart cities. Key discussion points involved creating a meaningful smart cities governance structure for their organisation, criteria for smart cities project selection and their lengthy community engagement exercise focused on not leaving anyone behind on smart cities.

Episode 11: Feature City Insights - Christchurch City Council (New Zealand) Jan 28, 2019

In the first of our 'Feature City' episodes we chat with Teresa McCallum, the Smart Cities Program Manager at the City of Christchurch, about their unique journey into the smart cities world. With a major earthquake in 2011 that catalysed a significant urban transformation, the foundations were ripe for an entire city rebuild with smart underpinnings, literally. Teresa shares the process, the strategies and the conditions needed to put Christchurch on the map as one of the most densely monitored places on earth!

Episode 12: Quicktake: Privacy Essentials for Smart Cities Jan 21, 2019

Another in our 'Smart Cities Quicktake' series, we talk all things privacy with Frith Tweedie, Digital Law Leader with EY. Privacy is front of mind for both government and the community, and trust is the foundation. We ask Frith the question - "what is important in building a smart cities social license with the community?"

Episode 10: Getting Ready to Deploy, with Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council (Australia) Jan 21, 2019

In our first 'Case Study' episode, we speak with Martin Darcy from Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council about the QCBD Smart Precinct project. A jointly funded deployment between the Council and the Australian Government, we talk about the process and the outcomes from preparing to deploy a suite of smart cities technology and data solutions incorporating public wifi, smart parking and lighting, environmental sensors, CCTV video analytics and 3D Digital City Modelling.

Episode 9: The Seven Smart City Enablers Jan 19, 2019

In this episode we tackle the question - "what are the core enablers of a smart city?" Whilst there are many enablers for smart cities, we highlight the seven core enablers and examples of what they look like. We also briefly touch on 'how' to embrace these enablers to ensure they help achieve the outcomes being sought by the community.

Episode 8: City/Vendor Relationships, with Wellington City Council (New Zealand) Jan 18, 2019

Continuing our series on 'collaboration', in this episode we discuss city/vendor relationships with Sean Audain, City Innovation Lead at Wellington City Council in New Zealand. Sean shares the smart cities journey at the city, and how vendors have taken part. We unpack some innovative procurement approaches and what the city has implemented to create a collaborative environment for working with technology partners.

Episode 7: Quicktake: Cyber Risk Essentials for Smart Cities Jan 17, 2019

For our first 'Smart Cities Quicktake' we explore cyber risk and security. Cyber can be a complex issue to navigate, and one that requires diligence, but how do you break it down in a meaningful and relevant way? For this session Lani Refiti from Deloitte's Cyber Risk and Emerging Technology Advisory Group joins us to to give us the quicktake on cyber risk. We discuss what cyber risk is, and isn't, how to approach it as an organisation and with your community, and what guidance is available to help chart a course of building a cyber secure approach to smart cities action.

Episode 6: What is Civic Innovation? Jan 16, 2019

In this episode we explore the concept of civic innovation. As part of our 'Collaboration' series of episodes, Amanda Newbery from the the consulting firm Articulous talks us through the Civic Innovation Guidance Note released by the Smart Cities Council in late 2018. She provides us with a precursor on the evolution of community engagement in a digital world, and what this means for active citizenship, innovation and democracy. Amanda then shares the five principles of civic innovation and how an organisation can take some tangible next steps to embrace the concept.

Episode 5: Smart Cities Standards - An Introduction Jan 14, 2019

In this episode we tackle smart cities standards, in the first of a 'Standardisation' series. We are joined by Gavin Cotterill from the consulting firm PCSG, one of the Smart Cities Council's partner companies. This episode touches on the fundamentals around smart cities standards - what, why and how? The discussion clearly outlines some guidance for organisations seeking to create a smart cities strategy or roadmap. We also touch on the issue of certification, and how that can help with building capacity, value and reputation. What smart cities standards are available to now, and those evolving, are also outlined. This episode is critical listening for any government organisation seeking to embrace smart cities.

Episode 4: Collaboration is key, but are we on the same page? Jan 13, 2019

This is the first of a series of 'Collaboration' episodes, where we had the delight of speaking with Max Hardy, Founder and Director of Max Hardy Consulting. In this discussion we talked through the subtle and not-so subtle differences of what collaboration is, versus coordination or engagement. The conversation then unpacked the idea of collaborative governance, a framework for for activating greater accountability and shared action in smart cities programs and projects. Join us for this critical conversation, and how collaborative governance could be an effective approach to smart cities action and investment.

Episode 3: Smart Cities Strategy, with Logan City Council (Australia) Jan 11, 2019

The first of many in a 'Strategy' series, this episode of the Chronicles features Ricardo Martello, City Futures Manager at Logan City Council (Queensland, Australia), as we discuss their approach to developing a City Futures Strategy for Logan. Highlights of their journey have been the deep engagement and support with residents and businesses, their core initiatives around catalysing 'civic innovation' and the partnerships they have formed along the way.

Episode 2: Smart Cities - The Definition Jan 07, 2019

In this episode we tackle the question - "what is a smart city?". But more importantly we discuss some of the key supporting issues and ideas around mindset, interpretation, context and reference materials.

Episode 1: Welcome and Introduction Jan 03, 2019

In this episode we introduce you to the Chronicles - the why, the what and how you can engage.

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