Julie Bishop's big new job! First woman to hold the position
Former foreign minister Julie Bishop has been announced as the first female chancellor of the Australian National University, months after leaving federal politics.
The former deputy Liberal leader is set to take on yet another role after exiting the public office three months ago.
“It is a great honour to take up the role of chancellor of ANU,” Bishop said.
“ANU's strong links globally, and in our region, make it one of Australia's most important institutions, and I look forward to working with it as we continue to support and further our national interest.”
She will replace another former foreign minister, Gareth Evans, who has been the chancellor of the university since 2010.
The 62-year-old will commence her role at ANU in January.
The university’s pro chancellor Naomi Flutter said she hoped Bishop would be a strong voice for the ANU.
“In Julie, I know we will have a compelling and effective advocate for our university, including with the Australian government,” said Flutter.
Bishop retired from her 21-year parliamentary career at the May election. Since then, the former MP for Curtin has taken on a number of roles, including a controversial appointment to the board of international consultancy firm Palladium, a beneficiary of the government’s privatisation of foreign aid spending.
An investigation by the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet last week found that Bishop has not breached the ministerial standards by taking up the position.