Ex-UNSW Law dean named vice-chancellor of Western Sydney University

Former University of New South Wales (UNSW) Law dean George Williams AO has been named Western Sydney University’s next vice-chancellor.  

Williams begins his tenure as the university’s fifth vice-chancellor in mid-July as the institution turns 35. The Australian constitutional law expert succeeds Barney Glover AO, who finished his over 10-year long term in the role in April.  

University Chancellor Jennifer Westacott AO described Williams as an exceptional candidate for the position. 
 
“Professor Williams deeply understood the role our university will play in both leading and supporting the transformation of Western Sydney and ensuring it benefits the community, particularly through the impact of the airport and the huge growth and opportunity currently underway”, Westacott said. “He is incredibly well placed to lead the university through this next important phase of our growth and development and to respond to the opportunities presented by an evolving higher education sector, a transforming national economy, and a rapidly changing world”. 

Williams brings a strong background in law, academia and public service. He is presently deputy vice-chancellor transformation, planning and assurance, Anthony Mason Professor and Scientia Professor at UNSW. Moreover, he served as UNSW’s deputy vice-chancellor. 

He was the first legal academic to be chosen as an Australian Research Council Australian Laureate Fellow, and chaired the Australian Laureate Fellowships Selection Advisory Committee. He was a visiting scholar to Columbia University and University College London. 

In addition to his expertise in constitutional law, Williams is also an expert in human rights law. As a barrister, he appeared in the High Court on matters involving freedom of speech, Indigenous rights and the rule of law. 

"When the opportunity arose to lead this university, I gave it everything I had because I believe there is no university or region in Australia with greater potential", Williams said. “I look forward to working with the chancellor, board and the incredible staff and student community to further strengthen the university’s role as a catalyst for Western Sydney’s advancement and prosperity – ensuring it is producing the highly-skilled graduates, impactful research and ground-breaking innovation to drive productivity and growth for the region”. 

The selection of Williams followed an extensive international and national search process.