ANU appoints new chancellor, ending Julie Bishop's contentious tenure

The Australian National University has named economist G…

The Australian National University has named economist Gordon de Brouwer as its next chancellor, bringing an end to a turbulent chapter marked by disputes and internal friction under Julie Bishop. De Brouwer, an adjunct professor of economics at the institution, will assume the ceremonial leadership role on August 19, becoming the 14th person to hold the position in the university's eight-decade history.

His appointment follows months of speculation and criticism surrounding Bishop's time in office, which began in 2020. During her tenure, the former foreign minister faced backlash over governance decisions, staff morale concerns, and public clashes with academic leaders, including a highly publicized dispute over the university's handling of a sexual assault report. Those controversies ultimately led to calls for her removal from within the campus community.

De Brouwer brings a blend of public policy and academic experience to the role. A former senior official at the Australian Treasury and the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, he has also worked extensively on economic reform and international engagement. His background is seen as a stabilizing choice for an institution seeking to rebuild trust and focus on its core research and teaching missions.

University officials expressed confidence in the incomin…

University officials expressed confidence in the incoming chancellor, noting his deep understanding of the higher education sector and his track record in complex national policy areas. De Brouwer, for his part, emphasized his commitment to supporting the ANU community and advancing the university's strategic goals in a rapidly changing global environment.

The transition comes at a pivotal moment for the ANU, which faces financial pressures, shifting enrollment patterns, and the ongoing need to compete internationally. De Brouwer’s leadership will be closely watched as he steps into a role that requires both diplomatic skill and decisive action.

Bishop's departure from the chancellorship marks the end of a period that many observers described as divisive, but it also opens the door for a fresh chapter. The university's governing council acknowledged Bishop's contributions, including her advocacy for the institution during the COVID-19 pandemic, while welcoming the change in direction.

De Brouwer will officially begin his duties in

De Brouwer will officially begin his duties in August, with a formal welcome ceremony expected in the following months. His early priorities are likely to include fostering collaboration across faculties and strengthening ties with government and industry partners.