UniSQ appoints John McVeigh as new Chancellor

The University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) today announced the appointment of the Hon Dr John McVeigh as the fifth Chancellor of the University commencing in the role on 1 December 2024.

The appointment marks a significant milestone for the University, reaffirming its commitment to academic excellence and research innovation.

A respected academic and former politician, Dr McVeigh served at all three levels of government and is known for his leadership in regional development, agriculture, and education.

As a Federal Member of Parliament, he contributed significantly to policymaking and the advancement of rural and regional communities in Australia.

More recently, Professor McVeigh was Director of the UniSQ-led Southern Queensland and Northern New South Wales (SQNNSW) Hub and Chair of the Regional Economies Centre of Excellence.

He is currently Chair of the Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) and a board member of the Royal Agricultural Society of Queensland and Toowoomba Catholic Schools Council.

Prior to his political career, Dr McVeigh worked in agribusiness and management consulting. He holds a business degree from UniSQ and qualifications from two other Queensland universities.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Geraldine Mackenzie said she was delighted with the new appointment.

“I am excited to welcome Dr John McVeigh as our new Chancellor, who brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the values and vision of the University of Southern Queensland,” Professor Mackenzie said.

“His leadership will be instrumental as we continue to build on our strong foundation and strive towards new heights of academic excellence, research innovation, and community engagement.”

Dr McVeigh said it was a privilege to be appointed Chancellor of the University of Southern Queensland.

“It is an honour to be appointed as the Chancellor of the University of Southern Queensland, an institution with a proud history of delivering high-quality education and research that truly impacts the lives of people in regional Queensland and beyond,” he said.

“UniSQ is more than just a place of learning – it’s a cornerstone of our regional communities.

“I am dedicated to building on this legacy and ensuring that our students are equipped to thrive in a rapidly changing world and our research continues to make an impact on a global stage.”

The new Chancellor will succeed outgoing Chancellor John Dornbusch, who has served the University with distinction over many years.

Professor Mackenzie said she was deeply grateful to Chancellor Dornbusch for his unwavering dedication and leadership.

Dr John McVeigh will be officially introduced as the new Chancellor of the University of Southern Queensland at an installation event on 2 December at UniSQ Toowoomba.