University Council appoints new Deakin Chancellor

Deakin University has announced the appointment of Ms Claire Higgins as the University’s seventh Chancellor, for a term of five years. Ms Higgins will commence in her position on January 1, 2026, upon the conclusion of the term of the current Chancellor, Mr John Stanhope AM.

In welcoming the announcement, Deakin Vice-Chancellor Professor Iain Martin said Ms Higgins is a respected and experienced board leader, director and committee member and a long-term resident of the Geelong region.

'On behalf of the university community and Council, I congratulate Claire on her appointment as the next Deakin Chancellor,' Professor Martin said.

Ms Higgins is the current Chair of GMHBA and REI Superannuation and will bring a wealth of experience to Deakin, drawn from over 25 years across various industries, including health and ageing, superannuation, emergency services, property and manufacturing.

Ms Higgins has held positions as Board Chair, director and committee member for a range of private and public organisations, including Ryman Healthcare Limited, Vital Healthcare Property Trust, Helen Macpherson Smith Trust, RT Health Fund, the Victorian State Emergency Service, Country Fire Authority, Ambulance Victoria and Barwon Health.

Professor Martin also paid tribute to Mr Stanhope.

'In announcing Claire’s appointment as our next Chancellor, I also acknowledge the dedicated leadership of our current Chancellor, Mr John Stanhope AM,' he said.

'John’s leadership has helped Deakin navigate significant change and enhance our standing as a world-leading institution for teaching and research.

'We will pay tribute to his remarkable contribution to Deakin’s progress and development later this year.'