Congratulations to Professor Anna Cody, appointed as Australia’s next Sex Discrimination Commissioner
Western Sydney University announces the departure of the Dean of the School of Law, Professor Anna Cody, and warmly congratulates her on her outstanding appointment as Australia’s next Sex Discrimination Commissioner.
An esteemed human rights law expert and distinguished leader in legal education, Professor Cody has been the University’s Dean of the School of Law since April 2019.
In that time, she has helped deliver key strategic priorities for the University and School. This includes leading important curriculum review and renewal and introducing programs such as a new Juris Doctor and Master of Construction Law.
Professor Cody has ensured that equity and diversity, a strong focus on Indigenous perspectives and support for First Nations’ students has been embedded across all aspects of the School of Law’s teaching and learning and research. She has led a diverse group of academic legal scholars and professional staff that have further enriched the School and strengthened it for the future.
Professor Cody will leave the University on 1 September 2023 to take up her new role.
“I thank everyone in the School of Law and from across the University community for making these last few years such a rewarding experience. We have achieved a lot together – the School has a stronger, clearer sense of its purpose and is producing powerful and impactful research. Our staff are all deeply committed to the success and wellbeing of our incredibly diverse and high-achieving student community,” said Professor Cody.
“I am immensely proud that Western Sydney University’s School of Law is recognised for preparing some of the best and brightest young legal minds who have a strong commitment to social justice and community advocacy. This is evidenced by initiatives like our Western Sydney University Justice Clinic with new health justice partnerships, and our particular focus on First Nations’ access to justice.
“It has been wonderful to be part of a broader University community that is equally as passionate about social justice, inclusion and gender equality and developing a more sustainable, equitable future for all. I wish the School of Law and the University every success in its future endeavours, as I look forward to this next exciting challenge.”
Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost, Professor Clare Pollock, thanked Professor Cody for her contributions to the University, and wished her well for this next chapter in her career.
“Professor Cody has been an important senior leader for the University and we thank her for her service,” said Professor Pollock.
“The School of Law has benefited greatly from Professor Cody’s extensive knowledge and professional experience and she leaves the School in an incredibly strong position for this next important phase of its development.
“On behalf of the University community, I extend our profound thanks to Anna for her outstanding leadership over the last four and half years, and congratulate her on this outstanding appointment as Australia’s next Sex Discrimination Commissioner.”
ENDS
7 July 2023
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