Flinders University is pleased to announce the appointment of Leanne Liddle as Deputy Chancellor, bringing to the role a distinguished record of public service and a deep connection to Flinders’ work across central and northern Australia.

A proud Flinders alumna, Ms Liddle holds academic qualifications in Science, Law and Management, and has dedicated her career to advancing the principles of equity, justice, and access. She began her professional life in law enforcement and has since built a nationally respected career spanning justice, policy, and health.

Flinders University Chancellor John Hood said Ms Liddle’s appointment strengthens the strategic leadership of the University Council at a time of significant growth and regional impact.

“Leanne Liddle is a trailblazer whose leadership and policy acumen are invaluable to Flinders as we deepen our presence across northern Australia and work to improve lives through education, research and health services,” Mr Hood said.

“She brings to the Deputy Chancellor role not only exceptional professional credentials, but also a genuine alignment with the values and mission of Flinders University.”

Ms Liddle is the Executive Director – Cultural Reform for the Northern Territory Police Force. She also serves as a board member of the NT/SA Central Royal Flying Doctor Service. In 2022, she was named Northern Territory Australian of the Year in recognition of her outstanding leadership and contribution to social justice.

Ms Liddle’s appointment reflects Flinders University’s deep and enduring commitment to the Northern Territory, where it is the sole provider of medical education and maintains an extensive campus network across Alice Springs, Darwin, Katherine, Nhulunbuy and Tennant Creek.

The University also delivers vital point-of-care testing across more than 70 remote and regional communities in the NT and Ngaayatjarra lands, providing rapid, onsite pathology testing for conditions including diabetes, kidney disease, sexually transmitted infections, Hepatitis C and SARS-CoV-2.

Ms Liddle said she was honoured to take on the Deputy Chancellor role.

“Flinders has shaped much of my journey – as a student, a professional, and now as a leader. It’s a privilege to serve a university that is not only deeply committed to student success but is making a real difference to the lives of people across some of the most remote parts of Australia,” she said.

“I look forward to strengthening my contribution as Deputy Chancellor and supporting Flinders’ bold vision for impact, equity and innovation.”

Ms Liddle joined the Flinders University Council in 2023. She succeeds former Deputy Chancellor Douglas Gautier AM, who resigned from Council to take up an international appointment in Saudi Arabia.