CIT’s new CEO
Dr Margot McNeill has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Canberra Institute of Technology, beginning 18 June.
Dr McNeill brings more than 35 years of experience in the education sector. She joins the CIT from TAFE NSW, the largest dual-sector education provider in the Southern Hemisphere, where as Chief Product and Quality Officer she led curriculum development and quality assurance. Previously, she was Deputy Vice Chancellor at the International College of Management Sydney.
Dr McNeill was selected following a nationwide search. CIT Board Chair Kate Lundy praised her track record in education, skills and training, strategic planning, organisational growth, and fostering strong stakeholder relationships. Under her leadership, the CIT will open the new CIT Woden campus, launch industry-aligned courses, enhanced digital learning initiatives, and collaborative projects to meet the needs of the ACT economy.
“I am incredibly excited to be joining CIT at such a pivotal time,” Dr McNeill said.
ACT skills minister Michael Pettersson MLA congratulated Dr McNeill on her appointment, saying her experience and leadership would be invaluable in training the territory’s workforce and making the vocational education sector thrive.
The previous CEO, Leanne Cover, resigned last year shortly before the Integrity Commission found her guilty of serious and corrupt conduct.
Chief Minister’s trade mission to the Pacific
Chief Minister Andrew Barr MLA will lead a trade mission to the Pacific this week to establish a new partnership between the capitals of Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. The Council of Pacific Capital Cities will later include other Pacific capitals.
“Our cities face common challenges — from the impacts of climate change to pressures on housing and infrastructure,” Mr Barr said. “Through this Council, we’re committing to practical cooperation and knowledge sharing that will strengthen our communities and support sustainable, inclusive growth.”
The cities will commit to a three-year work plan, supported by annual summits. The Council will promote trade, tourism and transport connectivity and community, business, education and arts sector exchanges.
In Wellington, Mr Barr will meet local officials to discuss the next phase of the Canberra–Wellington Sister City Partnership, established in 2016, and re-establish direct flights between the cities. The delegates will attend business events. HMAS Canberra, the Royal Australian Navy’s flagship, will take part in a special program of events, including a Freedom of Entry parade through the city by 250 Navy crew members, volunteer community work, and an AFL match between Australian and New Zealand Navy teams.
New Zealand is one of Canberra’s largest international tourist markets; Mr Barr will meet aviation, tourism, and business distribution partners, and visit the new Auckland International Convention Centre.
In Fiji, the trade mission will meet the Deputy Prime Ministers Biman Prasad and Manoa Kamikamica, Fiji Airways, and sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Suva City Council. Many ACT businesses — including Aspen Medical, EPC Solar and ONA Coffee — are expanding their operations in Fiji.
The Chief Minister’s participation costs approximately $9,500, met from within the ACT Executive budget. The final cost will be reported as part of the regular travel reports.
