FedUni announces reconciliation lead

THERE’S a new associate-deputy-vice-chancellor at Federation University and he’s being tasked with the job of leading the institution’s reconciliation process.

Born out of FedUni’s reconciliation action plan, Professor Andrew Gunstone will take on the newly created role of associate-deputy-vice-chancellor – reconciliation.

“I am honoured to be appointed to this inaugural position and am looking forward to leading Federation University’s reconciliation and RAP initiatives, and to continuing my national and state leadership in reconciliation,” he said.

Professor Gunstone joins FedUni after roles at Swinburne in Melbourne and time at University of South Australia and Monash University, as well as serving as the co-chair of Reconciliation Victoria.

As part of Federation University’s approach to reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the institution is also recruiting a head of associate-deputy-vice-chancellor – Indigenous.

That role is specifically reserved for an Indigenous person.

“I am also looking forward to working with the associate-deputy-vice-chancellor – Indigenous upon their appointment,” Professor Gunstone said.

The two roles are set to work in tandem and deliver on items stemming from the university’s reconciliation plan.

FedUni’s Vice-Chancellor and president, Professor Duncan Bentley, welcomed Professor Gunstone’s appointment.

“Andrew’s significant nation-leading experience and expertise in RAPs and reconciliation, will significantly advance Federation University’s ambitions to increase its regional and national engagements and leadership in reconciliation, while upholding our commitment to transform lives and enhance communities,” Professor Bentley said.