Throughout his tenure in Washington, Dr Rudd has been a tireless advocate for Australia’s national interests and a strong champion of education, research and innovation as central pillars of the Australia-United States relationship.

Dr Rudd has consistently recognised the critical role universities play in advancing Australia’s economic prosperity, national security and global influence. His deep understanding of global geopolitics, combined with his longstanding commitment to education, has strengthened collaboration between Australian and US universities, researchers and institutions, including under the AUKUS initiative.

Under Mr Rudd’s ambassadorship, Australian universities have continued to expand their engagement with US partners, reinforcing people-to-people links and contributing to shared solutions to global challenges, including in priority areas such as defence, technology and health.

On behalf of Australia’s universities, we thank Dr Rudd for his distinguished service and for the energy and commitment he has brought to advancing Australia’s interests in the United States.

Universities Australia wishes Dr Rudd every success in the future, and we look forward to engaging with him in his new role at the Asia Society.