Q&A with UniSQ Chancellor Dr John McVeigh

University of Southern Queensland’s newly appointed Chancellor Dr John McVeigh brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the University. A proud alumnus, he is eager to support UniSQ’s continued success in education, research, and industry collaboration. In this Q&A, Dr McVeigh outlines his priorities and opportunities ahead.

Congratulations on your appointment as the fifth Chancellor of UniSQ. What does this role mean to you?

I am incredibly proud and honoured to step into this role. UniSQ holds a special place in my heart as an alumnus and from my time as Executive Director of the Institute for Resilient Regions and Director of the SQLD/NNSW Drought Innovation Hub. The University has a strong reputation as Australia’s highest-ranking regional university, delivering education and research that makes an impact locally, nationally, and globally. I look forward to supporting its continued success.

What do you see as UniSQ’s key strengths?

UniSQ has a unique position in Australia’s higher education landscape. Our flagship areas of space and defence, agriculture, health, and regional development are critical to our communities and the nation.

We provide outstanding student experiences, world-class research, and strong engagement with industry and community.
I’m also very proud of our ability to support students from diverse backgrounds, including mature-age learners, first-in-family students, First Nations communities, and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.

Our role in fostering aspiration and providing pathways to higher education is fundamental.

You’ve spoken about your pride in the University’s contributions to industry and community. Can you share some examples?

There are so many examples. In health, I’m particularly proud of our Bachelor of Nursing programs in Toowoomba, Charleville, and Ipswich, as well as our allied health programs and our leadership in adolescent mental health research. We are leading in space and defence research, drought preparedness, and sustainability efforts. We should all take pride in our history of excellence in research, teaching, and community engagement.

The Australian Universities Accord Report has highlighted the need for Australia to increase tertiary education participation significantly. How is UniSQ positioned to contribute?

The Accord Report rightly identifies that Australia is not meeting its current and future skills needs. The recommendation to grow the tertiary attainment rate to 80% by 2050 is ambitious but necessary. UniSQ is well-placed to help meet this target.

We already work closely with schools to inspire and support students to pursue higher education. We are committed to improving participation among underrepresented groups and ensuring education remains accessible to all. Our partnerships with local industry and businesses allow us to align our programs with workforce demands, ensuring that our graduates are well-prepared for the jobs of the future.

Our role in expanding post-school qualifications through collaborations with TAFEs, apprenticeships, and other training pathways will be crucial in addressing this national challenge.

The higher education sector is facing significant challenges. How do you see UniSQ navigating these challenges?

There’s no doubt that universities across Australia and globally are facing considerable disruption. The impacts of COVID, shifting government policies, geopolitical influences, and economic pressures have created a complex environment. However, I firmly believe that UniSQ is well-equipped to respond.

Change is challenging, but it also presents opportunities. We must continue to evolve – adapting our teaching, research programs, and workforce planning to meet the needs of the future. Our focus must remain on sustainability, ensuring we can continue to provide quality education and research while being financially resilient. We will continue to focus on students and staff, ensuring they remain at the heart of all our decisions.

What is your vision for UniSQ’s future?

I am excited about the future of UniSQ. We have a strong foundation, but we must continue to push boundaries in how we deliver education and research, collaborate with industry and government, and support our students

I want to see UniSQ continue to lead in our flagship research areas, strengthen our engagement with communities and industries, and further enhance our reputation as a leader in regional education

The university sector will continue to change, but I am confident that with the dedication of our staff, students, and stakeholders, UniSQ will not only adapt but thrive.

I’m deeply committed to this University – its people, its mission, and its future.