Monash University 

Monash University’s motto Ancora Imparo (“I am still learning”) is a reminder that the search for knowledge never ends.

Monash University was established in Melbourne, Australia in 1958. At Monash, the desire to make a difference informs everything the University does.

Monash goes beyond good intentions. Monash makes an impact, both locally and internationally Monash is a global university with a presence on four continents.

Making a difference takes energy and idealism as well as experience and wisdom. As a young university, Monash’s outlook is progressive and optimistic. Monash University has seen the good achieved by Monash people in areas like green chemistry, sustainability, and accident and trauma.

Monash University has four local campuses throughout Victoria, an international campus in Malaysia, and centres in the People’s Republic of China, Italy and India. Each provides an environment that identifies and nurtures talent – and turns that talent into ability.

Monash University believes the best way to help its people meet the challenges they face is to provide a supportive environment. Monash champions and supports its students so that they have a memorable university experience.

From collaborative research opportunities, to building community relationships, Monash’s focus is always on how it can empower its people to make a positive impact on the world. Things like the World Mosquito Program and the anti-flu drug Relenza. Shared ambitions move the University forward, faster. The more relevant, useful and powerful connections Monash can make, the greater its impact will be.

Governance at Monash University

We are working together to ensure we fulfil our responsibilities and meet our strategic targets.

Dr Megan Clark AC

Chancellor of Monash University

BSc(Hons) PhD FATSE FAICD FAusIMM

Dr Clark joined the Council of the University in 2015 and began her tenure as Deputy Chancellor in 2021 and was appointed Chancellor in 2024. Her current leadership credentials include non-executive director for CSL Limited, member of the Global Advisory Council of Bank of America Corporation, USA, and Chair of not-for-profit MITRE Australia.

An influential contributor to the science and technology sector in Australia, Dr Clark chaired the Review of Australia’s Space Industry Capability in March 2018 and served as the inaugural Head of the Australian Space Agency from 2018 to 2020 before she became Chair of the Agency’s advisory board until December 2023. She was the Chief Executive of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) from 2009 to 2014, and previously held the positions of Vice-President of Technology at BHP and non-executive director of Rio Tinto.

In recognition of her professional career Dr Clark was awarded a Companion of the Order of Australia for eminent service to scientific research and development in 2014 and the prestigious Australian Academy of Science Medal in 2019. She is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Technological Science and Engineering (ATSE), the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM) and the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD). Dr Clark holds a bachelor’s degree with first class honours from the University of Western Australia and a PhD in Economic Geology from Queen’s University, Canada.

The Council

Roles and Responsibilities

Council is the governing body of Monash University, established by the Monash University Act 2009. Council is responsible for the overall superintendence of the University. It is specifically accountable to the relevant State and Commonwealth Ministries for the fulfilment of the University's role in the Australian community.

Membership of Monash University’s Council is as follows:

Official Members

  • Chancellor: Dr Megan Clark AC

  • Vice-Chancellor: Professor Sharon Pickering (ex-officio)

  • Chair of Academic Board: Professor Carla Wilkin

Appointed Members (Ministerial)

  • Dr Gillian Sparkes AM (to 30/06/2026)

Appointed Members (Governor-in-Council)

  • Deputy Chancellor: Ms Geraldine Johns-Putra (to 30/06/2028)

  • Ms Jennifer Samms (to 30/06/2026)

  • Dr Jane McAloon AM (to 31/08/2027)

Appointed Members (Council)

  • Mrs Pitsa Binnion PSM (to 31/12/2025)

  • Professor Gill Callister PSM (to 31/12/2025)

  • Mr Peter Marriott (to 31/12/2027)

  • Mr John Simpson AM (to 31/07/2025)

  • The Hon Peter Young AM KC (to 31/12/2025)

Elected Members

  • Elected Staff: Professor Wayne Hodgson (to 31/10/2026)

  • Elected Student: Mr Demitrios Kaminis (to 31/10/2026)

Council Membership

Council Sub-Committees

Council sub-committees of the university include:

  • Membership Committee (Chair: Dr Megan Clark AC)

  • ESG & Estates Committee (Chair: Ms Geraldine Johns-Putra)

  • Selection and Remuneration Committee (Chair: Dr Megan Clark AC)

  • Resources and Finance Committee (Chair: Mr Peter Marriott)

  • Investment Advisory Committee (Interim Chair: Mr Peter Marriott)

  • Honorary Degrees Committee (Chair: Dr Megan Clark AC)

  • Audit and Risk Committee (Chair: The Hon Peter Young AM KC)

  • Academic Board (Chair: Professor Carla Wilkin)