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Linda Burney to oversee Indigenous policy at UTS

February 19, 2026

A former Minister for Indigenous Australians has been appointed to the University of Technology Sydney’s (UTS) Council to help oversee Indigenous education policies.

Linda Burney said she was honoured to be appointed to the Council.

“Education has always been central to my life and my work. Universities like UTS open doors, create opportunity and help shape fairer outcomes for students and communities,” she said.

Longstanding commitment

Ms Burney, who was the first Indigenous woman elected to the NSW Parliament and the Australian House of Representatives, will take up the post immediately.

NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said Ms Burney demonstrated a longstanding commitment to advancing the inclusions of First Nations peoples within Australia’s public institutions.

NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan.

“Linda Burney has an unrivalled understanding of education, and the role public institutions play in expanding opportunity and strengthening inclusion,” he said.

“Her extensive experience and strong community focus will be a valuable addition to the UTS Council as it supports students, staff and the broader university community.”

Depth of experience

UTS Chancellor Michael Rose welcomed Ms Burney, saying her depth of experience in education, public policy and leadership would be a great asset to the university.

“Linda Burney brings a strong understanding of education systems and governance, along with a lifelong commitment to improving outcomes for students and communities,” he said.

 

Peter Rowe

Peter Rowe leads First Nations News as Editor, with over three decades of experience across international newsrooms, digital platforms and media strategy roles. For the past 20 years, he’s worked in Australia – reporting, editing and advising on stories that shape public debate.