In this episode of the podcast Claire is joined by the Vice Chancellor of Charles Sturt University, Prof. Renée Leon to discuss why funding for universities, and not institutional governance, is the biggest issue facing the sector. Prof. Leon also points out the substantial challenges facing regional universities and their students - who are often first-in-family, low SES, mature age and First Nations students needing much greater support to succeed.

Prof. Leon also shares why she's so pleased Minister Clare has been returned to the Education portfolio, to finish what he started, and highlights how CSU is engaging with AI to ensure students are not left behind.

A copy of the Charles Sturt University submission to the Senate Committee into higher education governance is available to download (submission no. 52).

The AI framework developed by Charles Sturt University is at: https://secureframework.ai/

And Claire's notes from the QS Middle East Higher Education Summit (which she mentions briefly in the introduction to the episode) are at: https://clairefield.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/April-2025-Reflections-on-QS-Higher-Ed-Middle-East-Summit.pdf

Contact Claire:

• Connect with me on LinkedIn: Claire Field
• Follow me on Bluesky: @clairefield.bsky.social
• Check out the news pages on my website: clairefield.com.au
• Email me at: admin@clairefield.com.au

The ‘What now? What next?’ podcast recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as Australia’s traditional custodians. In the spirit of reconciliation we are proud to recommend John Briggs Consulting as a leader in Reconciliation and Indigenous engagement. To find out more go to www.johnbriggs.net.au