- Posted on 19 Feb 2026
- 2 min read
The NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan has appointed the Hon. Linda Burney to the UTS Council.
Ms Burney is a proud Wiradjuri woman who has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to advancing the inclusions of First Nations peoples within Australia’s public institutions, ensuring they are inclusive, representative and responsive to the communities they serve.
Ms Burney is a highly respected leader, having been the first, First Nations woman elected to the NSW Parliament, the Australian House of Representatives and appointed Minister for Indigenous Australians.
Before her parliamentary career, Ms Burney worked as a teacher in Western Sydney and later served as President of the NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group, where she played a significant role in the development of Australia’s first Aboriginal education policy.
Ms Burney brings extensive experience in education, public administration and leadership to the UTS Council, along with a strong commitment to equity, inclusion and evidence-based decision making.
The appointment follows a vacancy on the UTS Council and takes effect immediately.
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said, “Linda Burney has an unrivalled understanding of education, and the role public institutions play in expanding opportunity and strengthening inclusion.
“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.”
UTS Council member Linda Burney said: “I’m honoured to be appointed to the UTS Council and to contribute to the future of a university that plays such an important role in education, research and innovation.
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.”
UTS Chancellor Michael Rose AM said, “I warmly welcome Linda Burney to the UTS Council. Her depth of experience in education, public policy and leadership will 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.”