Leadership and Governance

The Chancellor is the Chair of the Board of Trustees, the peak governing body of the University.

Professor Jennifer Westacott AC was appointed Chancellor from 1 January 2023 continuing a distinguished career in both the public and private sectors.

The Vice-Chancellor is the University President and CEO, responsible for managing all academic and administrative areas of the University.

Professor George Williams AO was appointed Vice-Chancellor and President from 22 July 2024.

The governing authority of the University, the Board manages development of broad policies and strategic plans, and is informed by a number of standing committees.

This is the peak forum in the University for academic debate and discourse. The Senate is a standing committee of the board, and is responsible for academic standards and values.

The Office of Governance Services provides a wide range of support services to the governing bodies of the University, as well as managing such issues as complaint resolution and records and archives.

WESTERN 2030 is built around seven priorities:

1. Strengthening student success
2. Putting our people first
3. Leading Indigenous acceleration
4. Unlocking global impact
5. Driving research and innovation
6. Unleashing Western Sydney
7. Securing sustainability

Western is the anchor higher education institution of Western Sydney, a region of enormous diversity and potential that is home to one in 10 Australians. It is undergoing a once-in-a-generation economic and social transformation.

Our roadmap ensures as the region changes, we can continue to serve communities in Western Sydney and increasingly around the world. As a public sector institution, we are partners in delivering a stronger, more prosperous community for all.

WESTERN 2030 will allow us to realise our ambition to be the university that Western Sydney needs and deserves.