Former Labor premier Michael Field has been announced as the University of Tasmania’s next chancellor.
Mr Field was premier and treasurer under the historic Labor-Green accord from 1989-92 and was made a Companion in the general division of the Order of Australia (AC) in 2003.
“At a time when the higher education sector is addressing a range of issues resulting from national policy and external pressures, the skills and commitment from the members that sit on council are extremely valuable to us,” vice-chancellor Professor Peter Rathjen said in a statement.
“Mr Field is an inspired selection to lead that body.”
Mr Field, who studied at UTAS and has been awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws by the institution, will begin in the role on January 1.