Duncan Maskell was in the frame for other university jobs but none appealed like the University of Melbourne, “a great university in a great city,” he told CMM last night.

“It’s a comprehensive university with a high level of excellent research and an innovative teaching model.”

And he says he looks forward to life in a city he first visited in 1994, “to see England hammered in the Test,” saying he senses “a great affection for the university” around town.  It makes, he agrees a great case for naming the Parkville station on the metro line being built “University.”

On broader public issues he would not be drawn, “higher education funding is an issue around the world.”  However, he makes it clear that he will be an advocate for his university and what it can accomplish.

“Higher education is good for society, it is more than an ideal. It drives economies and it gives nations presence on the world stage. Money spent on higher education is never wasted. “