CDU Chancellor retires

The Chancellor of Charles Darwin University announced today that he would retire from the position at the end of this year.

Mr Neil Balnaves AO informed the CDU Council of his decision at its December meeting.

“In my considered view, the role of Chancellor should play a more active role in the university’s life than I am able to from my base in Sydney,” Mr Balnaves said.

“I think it is essential that the Chancellor is located in the Northern Territory and able to engage fully with all levels of government and key stakeholders.

“CDU has an exciting period ahead and will be able to seize the opportunity by having a hands on Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor operating in tandem,” he said.

Mr Balnaves said he believed that a great deal of work conducted by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Simon Maddocks, could be undertaken by the Chancellor, offering greater freedom to the Vice-Chancellor to manage the day-to-day activities of the university.

Mr Balnaves said he left the university “with great regret, as I am a firm believer that the Northern Territory requires a first-class academic institution and vocational training that can feed a growing Australian economy”.

The position of Acting Chancellor will be undertaken by Deputy Chancellor Mr Richard Ryan AO until a new Chancellor is announced early in the New Year.

Mr Ryan thanked Mr Balnaves for the energy and leadership he has brought to the position since his appointment.

During his time as Chancellor the university has undergone substantial change and set new directions as a key component of the Darwin City Deal.