About Australian National University

ANU is a world-leading university in Australia’s capital city, Canberra. Our location points to our unique history, ties to the Australian Government and special standing as a resource for the Australian people.

Our focus on excellence in research and education ensures our graduates are in demand the world-over, well-prepared to address complex contemporary challenges.

• Academic Colleges
  ANU has seven academic colleges that house a number of schools and research centres that specialise in a range of disciplines – all relevant but some unique in Australia and our region.
• National Institutes Grant
  The ANU was established in 1946 with a special charter – to give the nation a world-class capacity in research in subject areas which were going to be important for the nation’s future.
• Strategic Planning
  The Australian National University is endowed by the nation to bring credit to Australia through the quality of its research, education and contribution to societal transformation. Our strategic planning reflects our priorities and responsibilities to the nation, the region and the world.
• Governance
  ANU is governed under the auspices of the Australian National University Act 1991 and the Public Governance, Performance & Accountability Act 2013. Our governance also conforms to the requirements of the Voluntary Code of Best Practice for the Governance of Australian Universities. Here you will find information on matters of corporate and academic governance, their supporting governance frameworks, all of which ensure that ANU continues to operate with the highest standards of decision-making, oversight, control, transparency and accountability.

• University Executive
  The ANU Executive Leadership Team is headed by our Vice-Chancellor, President and Chief Executive Officer Professor Brian P. Schmidt AC. Professor Schmidt and his team develop and implement strategies, policies and procedures to support ANU to meet its strategic goals and operational needs.
• Awards & Achievements
  ANU is a world-leading centre for research, education and policy engagement. Here you can browse our list of achievements and awards.
• Global Engagement
  ANU Global Engagement’s responsibility is to make the work of ANU accessible to our communities. Our work showcases the University’s intellectual leadership, brings to our communities the transformational experience ANU provides, helps achieve our unique national role and reflects ANU values.We engage with governments, research and teaching institutes, the public and private sectors, our students and staff, and the wider community through media, events and other activities that are aimed at contributing to conversations on major issues facing Australia and the world.We collaborate locally to serve the needs of our community, and with international partners on a global scale.
• Campuses & Facilities
  You’ll find ANU in the inner-city suburb of Acton, Canberra in the ACT. But we also have other campuses in the ACT, NSW and the NT that house some extraordinary facilities that help support our teaching, learning and research.
• Our History
  ANU is Australia’s national university and has a unique history among Australian universities. Learn about our history, and how it continues to influence the work we do here today on the page below. Visit Heritage management to learn more about our well preserved heritage and principles.