Theo Farrell is the next vice-chancellor of La Trobe University

La Trobe University has appointed Theo Farrell as its next vice-chancellor to replace John Dewar who has led the university for 12 years.

Theo Farrell, La Trobe University's incoming vice-chancellor.

La Trobe University has appointed Theo Farrell as its next vice-chancellor to replace John Dewar who has led the university for 12 years.

Professor Farrell, currently deputy vice-chancellor (academic and student life) at the University of Wollongong, will take over in February next year.

John Dewar

La Trobe chancellor John Brumby said Professor Farrell had impressed the council and the selection committee with “his energy, enthusiasm and ambition for the future of La Trobe University”.

“Professor Farrell will build on Professor John Dewar’s legacy, working with La Trobe’s Council, external partners, and the entire university community to realise an ambitious future for La Trobe.” he said.

Professor Farrell said he saw huge opportunities for La Trobe University “to grow and have even more impact in Melbourne’s north, across regional Victoria, and nationally”.

He is an international relations scholar and, before moving to Australia, held chair roles in the UK at King’s College London and City, University of London. His book, titled Unwinnable: Britain’s War in Afghanistan, was shortlisted for three national book awards and selected book of the year by The Sunday Times.

Mr Brumby paid tribute to Professor Dewar for leading the university for 12 years, particularly the “tremendous job in working through the challenges of the recent few years”.

Monash University has named its provost Susan Elliott as interim vice-chancellor to run the university when current vice-chancellor Margaret Gardner leaves to become Governor of Victoria in early August.