Appointment of Professor Nicola Phillips as Vice Chancellor, Adelaide University

University of Melbourne’s Provost, Professor Nicola Phillips has been appointed as the Vice Chancellor of Adelaide University, the newly-formed Group of Eight university which is due to open in January 2026 following the amalgamation of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia.

Professor Phillips joined the University of Melbourne from King’s College London as Provost in 2021, mid-way through the pandemic.

During her time at the University of Melbourne, Professor Phillips demonstrated her deep dedication to the University, extending across her leadership of academic strategy and innovation, widening participation, and the many dimensions of culture change that she has championed and resolutely pursued in matters of equity, inclusion and conduct.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Emma Johnston said: “This appointment is recognition of Professor Phillips’ outstanding leadership, expertise, strategic vision, and deep commitment to higher education throughout her career, including to our University in the last four years.”

“To be selected as Adelaide University’s new Vice Chancellor is a remarkable honour. We are incredibly proud of Professor Phillips’ appointment to this role and wish her every success in taking on this exciting and historic opportunity.”

“I would like to once again express my sincere thanks and appreciation to Professor Phillips for her leadership as Provost and as Interim Vice-Chancellor. Her stewardship and dedication were instrumental in maintaining stability and momentum across our University. Her considered leadership has set us on a strong path to sustain and build on our important work into the future."

Professor Phillips will conclude as Provost at the end of July.