We work at ANU. Julie Bishop’s exit wasn’t due to a university losing autonomy — the opposite i…

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We work at ANU. Julie Bishop's exit wasn't due to a university losing autonomy — the opposite is true

It’s exciting times at the Australian National University, where we work. While there has been plenty of attention on government interventions and resignations at the ANU, less remarked upon is how our university is approaching something resembling democratic leadership.

For those out of the loop (good for you!), our former chancellor, Julie Bishop, resigned from her role on May 8, 2026. Many people understand university chancellorships as ceremonial positions. At the ANU, this is not how it works in practice.

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Universities lost their social licence. Now they’re losing control

The regulator’s involvement in the ANU leadership saga raises serious concerns about institutional autonomy and government encroachment in university affairs.

Few would argue that Julie Bishop and Genevieve Bell delivered stellar performances during their recent tenures as chancellor and vice chancellor of the Australian National University.

Their stewardship was marred by concerns over governance, internal culture and leadership.

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An insider's view: how arrogance and power crippled the ANU council

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The Australian National University is currently the only Australian university with a democratically elected majority of representatives on its governing board. This moment offers a glimpse for a brighter future.

In less than a month, six out of 15 members of the ANU's governing body have resigned. This comes after years of poor financial decision-making, allegations of bullying, and an irrecoverable breach in trust between management and community.

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