University of Wollongong Chancellor Jillian Broadbent has been named a Companion to the Order of Australia (AC) in the 2019 Australia Day Honours List.
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Ms Broadbent was recognised for her outstanding contribution to the university and her leadership in the business world.
It is her second Australia Day honour. Ms Broadbent was made an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2003.
“I’m very nationalistic, so I’m very honoured and proud to be receiving the AC,” she said.
Ms Broadbent worked successfully in the banking sector for more than 30 years, during which time she was awarded the Qantas/Bulletin Businesswomen of the Year (1987).
Also actively involved in the arts, she was awarded the Australia Centenary Medal in 2000 in recognition of her contribution to the community.
Ms Broadbent said she was passionate about bringing together people from different fields with the aim of expanding their mindset.
“I’ve always believed in unlocking the power of diversity and inclusion,” she said. “I am passionate about creating a more inclusive society and a less divided country. Exposing business people to the world of arts encourages them to recognise talent in a different form.
“It is very satisfying, to find you can make a contribution and an impact on issues you believe in.”
During her time at the helm of UOW, where she has served as both Chancellor and Chair of the University Council, Ms Broadbent oversaw the expansion of the university’s research impact and its ties to the worlds of arts and business.
Ms Broadbent points to the university’s success in the Solar Decathlon in China in 2013, which UOW won, and in Dubai in 2018, where UOW placed second, as highlights of her term.
“I am also proud that UOW is the first recipient of the Ramsay Centre’s funds to develop the degree in Western Civilisation,” she said.
“Our concept is gaining global endorsements, and it reflects UOW’s adaptability and constructive approach. We are looking forward to having our first students in 2020.
“Early Start is another area where UOW is really ahead of the game and making an impact on a global stage.”
One of Ms Broadbent’s proudest achievements is her involvement with the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC), a $10 billion fund set up by the Australian Government in 2012 to invest in clean energy and energy efficiency.
She was the inaugural Chair of the CEFC, and played a key role in achieving its financial and policy outcome success.
“I’ve never had very specific goals, but I’ve had an open mind to people and opportunities,” Ms Broadbent said.
“I think everyone should make a contribution to their community, but sometimes you have to look to find those opportunities.”