Media releases

Following a national search, the Council of Federation University Australia today announced the appointment of Professor Duncan Bentley as its next Vice-Chancellor, commencing in August 2020.

Currently Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) at Swinburne University, Professor Bentley leads the Academic, International, Online and Indigenous portfolios at Swinburne and is on the Board of Swinburne (Sarawak). He was previously Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Victoria University with oversight of Vocational Education, External Engagement, and International.

Federation University Australia Chancellor, Mr Terry Moran AC said that Professor Bentley had an impressive 20-year career in senior academic leadership and management and would bring significant networking, public, private and dual-sector university experience to the role.

Professor Bentley’s qualifications include a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws from the University of Cape Town, Master of Laws from the University of London, Master of Laws (Corporate & Commercial) and PhD from Bond University, Australia. He also has an international research record in taxation policy and law.

He has established and led many university initiatives related to financial stability, growth, innovation and engagement, digital technologies and transnational education, and has extensive experience and success growing a vibrant and diverse student body.

Professor Bentley has built effective and long-term partnerships with the government and private sector at regional, state and national level, while also playing an active role in professional and community bodies and has served as a director and advisor for several not-for-profit and start-up companies.

Professor Bentley is uniquely placed to solidify and build on the past three years of significant achievements and improvements made under Professor Helen Bartlett’s transformative leadership and will join Federation University, which is already in excellent shape.

Quotes attributable to Professor Duncan Bentley

“I am honoured and delighted to be appointed as Federation University’s next Vice-Chancellor.”

“I am a passionate advocate for areas that are important to the university, including the student experience, research and community engagement.”

“Federation University provides domestic and international students of different ages, backgrounds and career stages with the skills and opportunities to transform their lives and careers, preparing them for any future.”

“Federation stands out to me for its commitment to excellence in both teaching and research, and as a university committed to the transformational power of education and widening participation in higher education.”

“This is a huge privilege, and in a constantly evolving landscape, I am honoured to lead Federation to drive regional economic growth in close partnership with government, industries and communities.”

“What is particularly exciting is that Federation University’s reputation as one of the world’s leading regional universities has ensured a deep and growing engagement with international students and partners eager to study and collaborate in Federations’ areas of strength.”

“I look forward to working with the university staff, students, alumni, and partners in the broader community to continue to drive the culture of collaboration, innovation and inclusivity.”

“We shall build dynamically on Federation’s success and international recognition as an educational and research leader for regional Victoria.”

Quotes attributable to Federation University Australia Chancellor, Mr Terry Moran AC

“As Federation University continues the implementation of its five-year strategic plan, with Professor Bentley’s deep knowledge and commitment to a student-centric approach across all areas of the student experience, we look forward to his vision and leadership in our next phase of growth.”

“The Council and I could not be more appreciative of Professor Bartlett’s expertise and leadership over the past three years of transformation which has seen the university academically and financially strong, and global reputation and rankings significantly improved.”

“Professor Bartlett has established a foundation upon which her successor can build and we wish her well in her next appointment as Vice-Chancellor of the University of the Sunshine Coast.”