Julie Bishop has reportedly stepped down from her position as chancellor of the university, a decision conveyed to both the institution and the Albanese government last night. Her departure comes seven months before her term was set to conclude in December, as she deemed it untenable to remain in her role.
During her six-year tenure, Bishop was instrumental in elevating the university’s stature both nationally and internationally. A spokesperson highlighted her efforts in fortifying global connections, particularly amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The university council expressed its gratitude for Bishop’s significant contributions and extended their best wishes for her future endeavors. “Her advocacy and leadership have been invaluable,” they noted.
Looking ahead, the council is focused on ushering in a new era of robust and positive governance. They reaffirmed the university’s standing as one of Australia’s and the world’s premier institutions, renowned for its excellence in teaching, research, and innovation.
Reflecting on her time as chancellor, Bishop shared with the ABC that she felt “deeply privileged” to have served in this capacity.
Bishop told the ABC she was “deeply privileged” to serve as chancellor.
“I continue to regard the ANU as a truly national treasure,” Bishop said.
Bishop spent a tumultuous period at the top of the cash-strapped institution, a term that was plagued by governance concerns and a controversial $250 million cost-cutting plan which included slashing jobs.
The National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) said Bishop’s decision to leave is “long overdue” and described it as a chance for the “troubled university to heal”.
“Julie Bishop falling on her sword is long overdue and closes one of the darkest chapters we’ve seen at any Australian university,” NTEU national president Dr Alison Barnes said.
“Staff have suffered enormously during her disastrous reign,” she claimed.
Union members had been calling for a leadership change at ANU for the past 18 months, NTEU ANU branch president Millan Pintos-Lopez said.
Bishop was appointed ANU’s first female chancellor in 2020 and her term was due to end on December 31, 2026.
Her replacement has not yet been named.
The ANU is a government-owned, not-for-profit university and is regarded as a national asset.
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