The Chancellor presides over the Council of the University of Divinity and plays a key role in official functions at the University, including at graduation ceremonies.

Dr Graeme L Blackman AO is the inaugural Chancellor of the University of Divinity, appointed to the role in 2011.

Following an exemplary career in both business and voluntary sectors, in 2017 Dr Blackman was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia. He received the honour for distinguished service to the pharmaceutical industry, to scientific research and development, to theological education and the Anglican Church of Australia, and to aged care.

Dr Blackman is an alumnus of the University of Divinity, having graduated with a Bachelor of Divinity and Master of Theology (Research). His theological degrees have enabled him to combine his considerable experience in financial management and governance with theological insight, to benefit numerous organisations within the Anglican Church in Australia.

As Chairman of the Board of Anglicare Victoria from 2000-2009, Dr Blackman was also a member of the working party established to create the new amalgamated agency, delivering community services to disadvantaged children, young people and families. He has served as a member of the Melbourne Diocesan Council and Victorian Provincial Council, director of the Melbourne Anglican Diocese Corporation, member of the management committee of the Trinity College Theological School, director and chairman of the Trinity College Foundation, Lay Canon of St Paul’s Cathedral, and director of Benetas Anglican aged care group.

Prior to entering theological studies, Dr Blackman is renowned for his career and leadership in developing Australia’s overall pharmaceutical and biotech industry. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) and a Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Physics from Monash University, and is a former Professor of Pharmaceutical Chemistry at the Victorian College of Pharmacy. More than 40 years ago, Dr Blackman founded IDT Australia, an award-winning Australian pharmaceutical manufacturing company. He has headed peak industry groups, chaired a Federal Government task force to develop a strategic vision for the sector and received some of the industry’s leading awards.

Dr Blackman’s wider community roles include chairing the National Stem Cell Foundation of Australia and President of the Victorian Council of Churches. He is a former Victorian chairman of the National Trust and Deputy Chairman of the Australian Youth Orchestra.

University Memberships

External Affiliations

• Leading Age Services Australia (LASA) (Chairman of the Board)
• The Johnston Collection (Chair of the Board of Trustees)
• Journal of Anglican Studies Trust (Chairman)
• National Stem Cell Foundation of Australia (Chairman of the Board)
• Sirius Foundation (Director)
• Aged and Community Care Providers Association (Chairman of the Board)