ACDS concludes 2026 AGM and affirms strategic direction for university science

The Australian Council of Deans of Science (ACDS) has concluded its 2026 Annual General Meeting, reinforcing its national leadership and advocacy role for university science.

The AGM began with a presentation from Professor Kerri-Lee Krause, Chief Commissioner and Chair of TEQSA, who addressed key sector-wide risks, the importance of strong institutional self-assurance, and the need for regulation that is both robust and proportionate. A summary of her presentation is available here.

The meeting then proceeded to the formal business of the AGM. Members endorsed the continuation of the ACDS Executive Committee and reaffirmed their confidence in its leadership. The Executive Committee comprises Jacqui Ramagge (James Cook University), President and Chair; Melissa Brown (The University of Queensland), Immediate Past President; Marcel Dinger (The University of Sydney), Secretary and Treasurer; and members Simon Ellingsen (The University of Western Australia), Troy Farrell (Queensland University of Technology), Mark Osborn (RMIT University), Megan Smith (Charles Sturt University), and Adam Trevitt (University of Wollongong).

A further significant outcome of the meeting was members’ support for the new ACDS Strategic Plan 2026–2030, which is structured around four strategic goals:
• Champion Teaching & Learning Leadership
• Strengthen Pathways for Research & Research Translation
• Build Influence Through Strategic Engagement and Communication
• Strengthen First Nations Partnerships and Engagement in University Science

Through its policy, advocacy and leadership role, ACDS will continue to work with members and partners to strengthen the contribution of university science to Australia’s research capability, education system, workforce pipeline and innovation future.

Download the ACDS Strategic Plan 2026-2030.