‘There are some sociopaths in the world’: Sitting down with ANU’s new chancellor, Gordon de Brouwer

Gordon de Brouwer, the newly appointed chancellor of Australia National University (ANU), sat down with Crikey just days into his tenure to discuss the challenges facing the institution. The meeting took place in a meeting room within the recently reconstructed University House, which had suffered extensive damage during a severe hailstorm in 2020. De Brouwer, who assumed office on August 20, 2026, described the situation at ANU as one of profound complexity, marked by a series of crises ranging from natural disasters to internal governance issues. The conversation unfolded against the backdrop of a university that has endured multiple trials in recent years. A devastating hailstorm in 2020 left University House in ruins, necessitating a costly reconstruction effort. This was followed by a period of intense scrutiny and upheaval as the university grappled with the aftermath of bushfires, floods, and the global pandemic. Each of these events placed immense pressure on the administration and staff, testing their resilience and adaptability. De Brouwer acknowledged the gravity of the challenges he faces, particularly in relation to the controversial $250 million cost-cutting initiative known as Renew ANU. He expressed concern over the manner in which this program was implemented and defended by his predecessor, former chancellor Julie Bishop. According to de Brouwer, the initiative was characterized by a lack of informed decision-making and a disregard for the potential consequences of such sweeping changes. Despite being introduced with the intention of streamlining operations and reducing financial strain, the program ultimately faced widespread criticism and was eventually abandoned. As he begins his role, de Brouwer emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of the university's governance structures and leadership practices. He highlighted the importance of restoring public confidence in ANU, which has been shaken by the controversies surrounding the Renew ANU initiative. His approach will focus on fostering transparency, accountability, and collaboration among all stakeholders, including faculty members, students, and external partners. The appointment of de Brouwer comes at a critical juncture for ANU. With the university still recovering from the physical and financial toll of previous disasters, there is a pressing need for stability and direction. De Brouwer's experience in higher education and his commitment to ethical leadership position him as a key figure in navigating the path forward. However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges, requiring careful navigation of complex institutional dynamics and the rebuilding of trust within the academic community. In addition to addressing the immediate concerns related to governance and financial management, de Brouwer has outlined plans to enhance the university's research capabilities and expand its international partnerships. These initiatives aim to strengthen ANU's standing as a leading educational institution and ensure its continued relevance in a rapidly evolving global landscape. By focusing on innovation and excellence, de Brouwer hopes to steer ANU towards a more resilient and prosperous future.