In a graduation ceremony marked by celebration, the Governor-General of Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, delivered the official citation for Ms Gillard, Australia’s 27th – and only female – Prime Minister.
Upon accepting the honorary degree at the University’s graduation ceremony, Ms Gillard said, “What an honour it is to be recognised in this way and to share the moment with all the students celebrating their graduation here today.”
From left, Macquarie University Vice-Chancellor Professor S Bruce Dowton, Macquarie University Chancellor Martin Parkinson, The Hon Julia Gillard AC and Governor-General of Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC.
Ms Gillard led the nation as Prime Minister from 2010 to 2013, following her tenure as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for key portfolios including Education, Employment and Workplace Relations, and Social Inclusion. Her leadership during the Global Financial Crisis was widely lauded, as was her role in deepening Australia’s diplomatic relationships across Asia.
Reforms under Ms Gillard’s leadership reshaped key national systems – from education and health to the creation of the National Disability Insurance Scheme and the rollout of the National Broadband Network. She also introduced Australia's first carbon pricing mechanism and delivered the landmark Fair Work Act, building on her legal roots in industrial law.
To today’s graduating cohort, Ms Gillard shared an important message: “You will leave this ceremony, not just with a degree in your hands, but with the tools you need – a disciplined mind, an understanding of the rules and norms that shape our world – to strengthen our nation’s democratic institutions, uphold the rule of law and drive positive change in our society.
“In an era of fragmented attention, declining trust and profound challenges, your attributes and capabilities are needed more than ever.”
Since retiring from politics, Ms Gillard has continued her public service through global and national leadership roles. She chaired Beyond Blue from 2017 to 2023, led South Australia’s Royal Commission into Early Childhood Education and Care, and currently serves as Chair of the Wellcome Trust, a UK-based foundation supporting scientific solutions to global health challenges.
Ms Gillard is also the Inaugural Chair of the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership at King’s College London, a Distinguished Fellow with the Brookings Institution, and Patron of numerous educational and youth-focused charities.
Macquarie University Vice-Chancellor Professor S Bruce Dowton said, “Julia Gillard’s leadership has had an immeasurable impact on public life in Australia and globally.
“She is a model of purpose-driven leadership and unwavering advocacy for equity, especially in education. We are honoured to recognise her contributions to the nation and her continued efforts to build a more inclusive and just world.”
In 2017, Ms Gillard was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) for her eminent service to Australian society, particularly through her leadership, policy reform and work advancing opportunity for women.
Her honorary doctorate was presented today as part of the University’s spring graduations, during which more than 2800 graduates will take the stage to receive their degrees, diplomas and certificates.
