University of Wollongong Chancellor Resigns Ahead of ICAC Testimony, Says Role Proposal Came From Incoming Vice-Chancellor

Michael Still resigned as chancellor of the University of Wollongong on or about July 3, 2026, Abc reported. The move came while the Independent Commission Against Corruption examines allegations of favouritism, conflicts of interest and failures in governance oversight at the university. Still told the inquiry he resigned to prevent his involvement from negatively affecting the institution.

He gave evidence on July 6 and is scheduled to continue on July 7. The inquiry focused on a proposed vice-president strategy and executive affairs role carrying a remuneration package of about $388,000 that was developed in early 2025. " Alyssa White helped develop structures for a new Vice-Chancellor's Office, draft position descriptions and prepare papers supporting the role.

Still said it did not cross his mind that White's work on a position she hoped to occupy created a conflict. He denied seeking to secure the role for her or influencing senior figures to that end. UOW People and Culture executive Alison Bourke and general counsel Rebecca Lim raised concerns, including whether the position should be advertised.

Bourke advised the proposal could not proceed until June 2025 because of industrial risks. Still accepted he asked whether there was "a way around" the delay. Still regularly updated White on internal discussions as concerns emerged and sent text messages describing the situation as "a little silly" after learning Bourke wanted to raise issues directly with him.

He disputed aspects of Bourke's contemporaneous notes. The inquiry also examined Still's involvement in salary discussions for governance executive Stacey Oon, who was initially offered a $200,000 package. Still rejected suggestions he had improperly intervened, describing his actions as providing input.