The Australian Government is currently taking a close look at the nation’s research and education policies through a review of the innovation system and a review of the tertiary education system. As this edition of ANU Reporter goes to print, both reviews will be in full swing, and ANU will be making its contribution.

Earlier this year I gave a speech to the Australia New Zealand School of Government in which I argued that it is time to put in place enlightened policies that will reinvigorate and advance the Australian higher education sector in a way that is coherent, intelligent and supportive. If policies meet these criteria, inevitably, they will reveal that universities perform differently. Recognising differences and enabling each university to play to its strengths will result in a better range of quality options for students, and a more powerful research effort for Australia.

ANU occupies a unique place in the nation’s research and education landscape. We were founded to advance the cause of learning and research for the nation, to enable Australia to take its place alongside the countries of the civilized world. That is a role we take seriously, and one we will seek to cement in the new policy framework.

Part of the unique role that ANU has is international. This year we have begun to see the International Alliance of Research Universities blossom. Global research programs are well underway, with ANU playing a leading role in the Security theme. Students from ANU will shortly be taking advantage of the first Global Summer Program, with the option to take courses in the Northern Summer at the Universities of Cambridge, Oxford, Tokyo, Yale or the National University of Singapore. In turn, ANU will be welcoming students from Alliance universities to Canberra for courses ranging from Artificial Intelligence, International Environment Policy through to Great Power Politics in Asia.

Exciting and interesting times lay ahead for ANU as we play a major role in national reforms while growing our international engagement.

Professor Ian Chubb AC
Vice-Chancellor and President

ANU Reporter 
Autumn 2008