The Swinburne University of Technology Council is delighted to announce the reappointment of Professor John Pollaers OAM as Chancellor for a second consecutive five-year term, extending until 2029.
Since assuming the role in 2019, Professor Pollaers has steered the Swinburne Council through a period of significant growth and accomplishment, propelled by Swinburne’s Horizon 2025 strategic plan, which emphasizes a clear strategic focus and a forward-thinking approach.
Professor Pollaers remarked, “Swinburne now epitomizes a new and distinctive university model—one centered on technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Our shared vision unites us in harnessing the power of people and technology to create a better world, pursuing ambitious goals in employability, work-integrated learning, research, industry collaboration, and global excellence.”
He highlighted Swinburne’s impressive ascent in global academic rankings, culminating in a notable leap into the Top 250 of the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Rankings—a remarkable achievement attributed to the concerted efforts of the university’s faculty and staff across both higher and vocational education.
Looking ahead, Professor Pollaers expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue guiding Swinburne, emphasizing the university’s commitment to positively impacting society through education and research.
Professor Pascale Quester, Vice-Chancellor and President of Swinburne, commended Professor Pollaers for his invaluable contributions and expressed eagerness to collaborate further in fulfilling the university’s strategic objectives, including the ambitious Horizon 2025 plan.
