Prof. Liz Johnson and Prof. Jill Hennessy join VU Council

The new members, Emeritus Professor Liz Johnson and Professor the Hon. Jill Hennessy, bring significant expertise to Council and will play a key role in driving University strategy and impact. They commenced 1 January 2026. 

VU Council is the governing body of Victoria University, established under the Victoria University Act 2010 (Vic). It is accountable for the University’s operations, including its strategy, budget, and the management of risk.  

Emeritus Professor Liz Johnson 

Professor Johnson brings over 40 years of leadership across Australian universities, most recently as Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic at Deakin University, where she led advances in digital learning, student experience, curriculum renewal and academic capability-building. 

“VU is about all the values that I care about most - inclusive, welcoming, aspirational and can-do. VU's work on the Block Model and student experience is a real game-changer and inspirational for the whole sector. I’m so pleased to be able to be part of the journey,” Professor Johnson said. 

Professor The Hon. Jill Hennessy 

Professor the Hon. Jill Hennessy brings extensive public service experience as former Victorian Attorney-General and Minister for Health, where she led reforms in justice, health and community wellbeing. 

Professor Hennessy also holds leadership roles in Melbourne’s West, as Chair of Western Health and Chair of the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation, and governance roles in medical research, innovation, health systems and community impact. 

“VU delivers education and training that changes lives. Practical skills. Recognised qualifications. Real pathways. Support that adapts as careers evolve. Lifelong learning helps our communities thrive, and VU makes it real. As a proud westie, I know the talent and ambition across Melbourne’s west. I’m excited to help build opportunities that lead to meaningful jobs and real outcomes for our region and beyond,” Professor Hennessy said.  

Read more about University Council Committees.