Like many in our community, I welcomed the appointment of Professor Bell as the first woman to lead our national university, however her leadership has over recent months become untenable.
While there is broad understanding of the need to put the Australian National University (ANU) on a more sustainable financial footing, there have been serious failures of leadership and governance in the implementation of Renew ANU. Renew ANU has caused enormous harm to staff, students and the reputation of our national university.
I welcome the announcement that brings to a close the Vice-Chancellor’s tenure but further leadership renewal is needed.
The Chancellor faces serious bullying and workplace harassment allegations and has presided over a period that saw a significant decline in the university’s financial position and governance arrangements.
Most importantly, there must be a stop to any further forced redundancies including for the change management plans that have yet to be finalised until there is more transparency over the ANU’s financial position and genuine consultation over a way forward.
The ANU must embark on a period of rebuilding, and I will be there to support staff and students every step of the way.