ANU's interim VC seeks to turn a new page, denies claims she acted against predecessor

Professor Rebekah Brown, the interim Vice-Chancellor of the Australian National University (ANU), has publicly addressed the institution's recent difficulties, seeking to usher in a new era after controversies that have affected its reputation and finances. She has denied allegations of acting against her predecessor, former vice-chancellor Genevieve Bell.

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The last couple of years have been really, really difficult for the ANU.

Brown's "ANU by 2030" strategy is being presented as a path forward, though key leadership positions, including the chancellor and vice-chancellor, remain vacant. The university's governing body, the ANU Council, also has open positions. These leadership gaps, coupled with the ongoing probe by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency into the university's governance, mean permanent appointments are unlikely soon.

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Of course, none of that is true.

The university has suffered significant reputational damage, estimated at around $100 million, following a series of scandals, including an Australian National Audit Office report that questioned the justification for a $250 million savings plan involving job cuts. Former chancellor Julie Bishop also resigned amid pressure. Professor Brown acknowledged that current student numbers are too low and increasing enrollment is a key objective for the university's future.

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I would like to believe that's all ended and we have left that behind.