ANU apologizes to academic who accused Julie Bishop of bullying

The Australian National University (ANU) has formally apologized to academic Liz Allen, acknowledging failures in governance that led to her experiencing bullying and misconduct. Dr. Allen had accused senior figures within the institution, including former Chancellor Julie Bishop, of hostile behavior. She testified before a Senate committee investigating higher education governance, detailing threats and intimidation she faced since 2024, which she claims contributed to a miscarriage and put her job at risk.

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courageously standing up

In her testimony, Dr. Allen described a February 2025 meeting where she alleged Ms. Bishop made serious accusations of improper and illegal activity against her and an undergraduate student representative. Dr. Allen also reported ongoing consequences, including a threatening legal letter, delayed publication of her work, and exclusion from media coordination. She stated colleagues were afraid to collaborate with her due to fear of leadership repercussions.

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threats, intimidation and bullying, because I sought greater probity of council conduct

Julie Bishop has vehemently denied all allegations, stating she rejects any suggestion of disrespect, discourtesy, or incivility. She asserted that dissent is not discouraged and that the council is not dysfunctional or toxic. Ms. Bishop maintained her conduct was always professional and that she had never been accused of behavior remotely reflecting the allegations made during the Senate hearing. She resigned as Chancellor earlier this year after facing pressure from staff, students, and politicians. Vice-Chancellor Genevieve Bell had resigned in September 2025.

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I reject any suggestion that I have engaged with Council members, staff, students and observers in any way other than with respect, courtesy and civility