University of Wollongong (UOW) chancellor Michael Still has resigned with immediate effect, having stepped aside from his role last month pending an investigation by a corruption watchdog into the awarding of contracts to two consultancies.
The New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) is undertaking an investigation into the university, including the decision to appoint John Dewar, a partner at consultancy KordaMentha, as interim vice-chancellor. Following Dewar’s appointment, KordaMentha won a A$2.9 million (£1.5 million) contract to advise on a Wollongong restructure.
Still, whose term was due to end in 2027, said: “To best serve the interests of the University, its staff and students, and to ensure that leadership renewal can occur without interruption, I have decided that I should resign from council effective immediately so that the next chancellor can be sought.”
The council said that it respected Still’s decision to resign, “which he has made with the best interests of the University’s staff, students and the broader University community in mind”. The council also thanked Still for his contribution to the university.
Council member Greg West, who was appointed acting chancellor in June, will continue in the role. The process of appointing a new chancellor now begins.
