Episode 5: Looking Across The Ditch with John Capper

Good Will Hunters

In so many ways, New Zealand is nimble, creative and progressive. For that reason, looking across the ditch for ideas and inspiration is of great benefit to Australia - in this case, in how to redesign a development program that is fit for purpose. New Zealand underwent a development program review, and its International Cooperation for Effective Sustainable Development policy came into effect in late 2019, which reaffirmed its primary focus as the Pacific. How did they get there? One person who was intimately involved in the formulation of the policy was John Capper. Formerly of MFAT - New Zealand's office of foreign affairs and trade - John now works in the private sector, at Martin Jenkins. In the latest episode of 'Reimagining Development', John tells Rachel and Jess about the restructure and new policy directions, how Maori culture is informing foreign policy and why, when it comes to creating positive workplace culture, it's all about "the vibe".