By Deborah Terry 

I am delighted to have been re-appointed as vice chancellor of Curtin University for another five years.  For me, core priorities will be ensuring that Curtin’s upward trajectory continues, particularly in relation to: (a) delivering a revitisalised precinct at the northern end of our Bentley campus – this will include at least 900 new student beds; short stay accommodation; commercial space for industry partners, all designed to transform the university into an urbanised education and research hub that connects industry, business and community; (b) achieving our goal of having a more “balanced” research portfolio across both researcher-driven and demand-driven research; and (c) working with the state government and the other WA universities to enhance Perth’s attractiveness as a study destination; and (d) ensuring that our course offerings and modes of delivery meet the future needs of students and the labour market.

The recent political debate over the funding of universities has created policy and financial uncertainty for the sector.  Policy certainty is critical as we work to play our role in meeting the needs of the new knowledge economy.  This is in relation not only to ensuring that our graduates are well positioned to meet the needs of a rapidly changing labour market, but that universities play a core role as part of a vibrant and more connected innovation ecosystem.