In our latest episode, David Shanks, Deputy Commissioner of Enterprise and Integrated Integrity Services at Inland Revenue New Zealand, explores how governments can strike the right balance between embracing technological innovation and managing risk. Drawing on personal experience across regulation, digital policy and emerging technology, he reflects on the opportunities AI presents — and the very real harms that can arise when innovation outpaces oversight. Through compelling real-world stories, David argues that opting out of technological change isn't realistic. Instead, public sector leaders must learn to move forward deliberately, paying close attention to early warning signs, lived experience and unintended consequences. The episode offers a thoughtful, grounded perspective on responsible innovation in an age of rapid digital change.

David Shanks, Deputy Commissioner, Enterprise and Integrity Services, Inland Revenue NZ

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