Former Groom MP John McVeigh’s major new role at USQ revealed

Former Groom MP John McVeigh has been appointed to a major role at one of Toowoomba’s largest employers.

FORMER Groom MP John McVeigh has been appointed to head up the University of Southern Queensland's Institute for Resilient Regions.

As executive director of the institute, it will be his job to lead research that shapes regional development and innovation.

USQ Vice-Chancellor Geraldine Mackenzie said Dr McVeigh would be based in Toowoomba

"John McVeigh is a widely admired leader, well placed to provide a bold vision for the institute as it helps regional communities to build resilience and adapt successfully to change," Professor Mackenzie said.

"He has long been a passionate advocate for regional Australia and as a former cabinet minister brings unrivalled policy experience.

"As executive director, he'll further develop USQ's world-class research capability, to ensure innovative research outcomes for Australia's heartland."

"With his wealth of experience and years of regional representation, Dr McVeigh is perfectly placed to build on this commitment to research, education and collaboration."

Dr McVeigh resigned from Federal Parliament less than two weeks ago, as he wanted to spend more time with his family due to his wife having a serious illness.

It has triggered intense speculation on who will replace him in the ultra safe LNP seat of Groom, and has also caused tensions between the Liberals and the Nationals in Canberra.

"This is very much like returning home for me - to USQ where I commenced my tertiary studies in the 1980s," Dr McVeigh said about the appointment.

"Regional Australia has been my personal, professional, academic and political passion over many years," he said.

"I'm excited therefore to be joining an institute which is dedicated to addressing core elements of health and wellbeing in regional Australia and helping communities to innovate, navigate change, and exploit new skills, technology and infrastructure.

"To remain based in my hometown Toowoomba, Australia's largest inland private sector city, to take on this role while continuing to manage family priorities is a blessing and an honour."

Originally published as Former Groom MP John McVeigh’s major new role at USQ revealed