New VC for La Trobe

LA Trobe University has appointed its seventh vice-chancellor and president after searching internationally.

The new addition to the university’s leadership team is Professor Theo Farrell and he’ll commence his new post in February 2024, taking over from current head Professor John Dewar who’s been in the role since 2012.

Professor Farrell is currently deputy vice-chancellor and vice president at the University of Wollongong, has previously held leadership positions in the UK at King’s College London and City, University of London, and has 10 UK research council awards.

He assisted the UK and US governments as a strategic advisor in the Afghan War and has a book, Unwinnable: Britain’s War in Afghanistan, which was shortlisted for three national book awards and chosen as book of the year by The Sunday Times.

“I see huge opportunities for La Trobe University to grow and have even more impact in Melbourne’s north, across regional Victoria, and nationally,” said Professor Farrell.

“I look forward to working with Council, the University community, and external partners to realise a bold and exciting future for La Trobe.”

Established in 1964 in Melbourne suburb of Bundoora, La Trobe campuses in Bendigo, Albury-Wodonga, Shepparton.