Chancellor's message

The final full year of the University of Adelaide has been a time of reflection on the past, and preparation for the future.

We have celebrated the past through events involving staff, students, community partners and alumni – and we have celebrated locally, nationally and globally, as we farewelled a beloved institution.

This University grew side-by-side with the City of Adelaide and South Australia. It has educated its leaders. It has researched new ways to improve the lives of its people, and the development of its industries, arts, science, and agriculture.

We all had a chance to say goodbye recently at our Staff Farewell; now we finalise our preparations for something new.

As Adelaide University, our campuses will spread further and our alumni family will grow larger, as will our student and staff cohorts. This is a big change, but change is not new to our University. Over its long history, it has changed to ensure its long-term success and to suit the ever-changing needs of the society, and the State it serves, including through the maintenance of strong global links.

As the 17th and final Chancellor of this University, I am confident the University Council has determined the best path forward – that the merging of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia is the best way to secure a strong future.

I thank all of the staff of our University who have worked with such faith, diligence and goodwill to make this difficult transition.

Your efforts have enabled the University of Adelaide to shine during its final year, as we have moved with confidence towards the successful establishment and opening of the new Adelaide University.

We have had a proud past. We will have a bright future.

I wish every member of the University of Adelaide community a joyous and safe Festive Season and send my very best wishes to every member of Adelaide University community for a wonderfully successful 2026!

The Hon. Catherine Branson AC SC
Chancellor