Murdoch University News | 19 September 2014
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Murdoch University suspended vice-chancellor Richard Higgott on full pay on 19 September as a result of the outcomes of a recent investigation by the university, which have been referred to the Corruption and Crime Commission (CCC) for further assessment pursuant to section 28 of the Corruption and Crime Commission Act (2003).
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The decision to suspend Higgott was a unanimous resolution of the Murdoch University Senate.
Murdoch University chancellor David Flanagan said the decision to suspend Higgott was regrettable but necessary as a result of the findings of the investigation and the policies of the university.
As a public authority Murdoch University has very clear duty under the CCC Act to report any matters which it suspects concern or may concern misconduct, which we have done. We have forwarded to the CCC the outcomes of the investigation and we will continue to fully cooperate with the CCC in relation to these matters. The Senate has determined that it is in the best interests of the University that Professor Higgott be suspended pending further inquiries.
Pro vice-chancellor Andrew Taggart will fill the role of interim vice-chancellor.