Peter Varghese AO, a distinguished public servant and Australian diplomat, has been appointed Chair of the Board of Directors of the Australian Public Policy Institute.
Mr Varghese has served as Chancellor of the University of Queensland since 2016. His illustrious 40-year career includes roles as Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (2012–2016), High Commissioner to India (2009–2012), High Commissioner to Malaysia (2000–2002), Director-General of the Office of National Assessments (2004–2009), and Senior Advisor (International) to the Prime Minister (2003–2004).
Government, universities and business should see themselves as tripartite problem solvers; addressing the big challenges we face as a nation and arriving at policy positions anchored in deep expertise, clear values and practical outcomes. I have followed with great interest the work of the Australian Public Policy Institute since its inception and I’m delighted to be appointed Chair for its next chapter as it looks to engage more widely across Australia. APPI has a unique role to play in finding common ground in pursuit of timely, workable solutions that benefit Australia’s democracy and future prosperity.
Peter Varghese AO
Mr Varghese will serve for a two-year term, succeeding independent Board member Jillian Kilby as Interim Chair and Peter Shergold AC, former Chair.
