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As
you may be aware, last week the University Council decided to sell a relatively
small number of shares in seven companies. The decision has sparked an
extraordinary reaction. I’ve written about the matter in an Op Ed published today.
ANU
invests for the betterment of its community – students, staff and researchers.
The returns on these investments fund scholarships, staff salaries, research
projects and new infrastructure. The University has a responsibility to invest
wisely but also in a manner consistent with the desires of our stakeholder
students, alumni and staff.
To
this end, the decision to divest was made after a review commissioned as part of
our Socially Responsible Investment Policy. The review was undertaken by the
independent Centre for Australian Ethical Research (CAER) and provided
Environmental, Social and Governance Ratings on ANU-held domestic stocks. Using
an internationally recognised methodology, our investments were assessed against
environmental, social and governance criteria.
The
ANU community – staff, students and alumni – has been very engaged in the debate
about divestment. As the national university, we have a role to play in national
and global debates of this kind.
As
always, I welcome your views.
Professor
Ian Young AO
Vice-Chancellor
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