Bishop Steps Down as ANU Chancellor, Citing Concerns Over Government Overreach

‘The higher education sector is at a crossroads of regulatory overreach in the governance of our institutions or autonomy and academic freedom,’ said Bishop.

The Chancellor of the Australian National University Julie Bishop speaks at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on Oct. 10, 2025. Hilary Wardhaugh/Getty Images

Former Foreign Minister Julie Bishop has resigned as chancellor of the Australian National University (ANU) following months of turmoil surrounding financial restructuring, workplace culture allegations and the departure of vice-chancellor Genevieve Bell.

Bishop’s resignation takes effect immediately, months before her term was due to end in December. She has held the position since January 2020.