Georgie Burgess
22 September 2026: A uniform sea of regalia flowed in and out of the University of Canberra’s September graduations, with four ceremonies held over two days at the National Convention Centre Canberra – but while the caps and gowns were the same, hidden behind each was a unique story.
Some graduates had balanced study with work and family commitments, others returned to education later in life – many overcame significant personal challenges to reach this milestone.
But this week, almost 1,000 University of Canberra graduates celebrated the milestone that unites them all.
At the ceremonies, 543 undergraduate students and 361 postgraduate students were conferred by Chancellor Lisa Paul AO PSM, who congratulated the class of 2026 and encouraged them to enjoy the celebration and all that it means.
“Each graduate has a personal story of perseverance, growth and achievement. Moments like these give us a chance, as the UC community, to recognise the commitment that has brought our students to this day and to celebrate the positive impact they will make in our communities and beyond, for years to come,” Ms Paul said.
Vice-Chancellor and President Professor the Honourable Bill Shorten welcomed the newest alumni to the University’s 100,000-strong global network and said that while a University of Canberra education would open doors, it was character, integrity and service that would ultimately shape a meaningful life.
“The study that you’ve chosen to undertake is possibly the most powerful gift you can give yourself, and in times of uncertainty you know you can rely on the foundations you’ve built,” Professor Shorten said.
“I hope a UC education means you choose to not take the shortcut, that you instead choose to do more than the job requires, to treat others with kindness … and that as you leave here, you choose to use your integrity, character and compassion as a shield during these times of remarkable change.”
“The future of education is having the choice of doing a three-year degree, or indeed pursuing modular learning with stackable credentials and accreditable units. At UC we will recognise your prior learning and experience, and we shall lead to ensure that students can move seamlessly between VET and higher education qualifications.
“The truth is that lifelong learning is no longer just nice to have, it is a modern necessity.”
Each ceremony featured an address from a graduating student speaker, alongside a distinguished lineup of guest speakers. Faculty of Business, Government and Law graduates heard from Attorney-General The Honourable Michelle Rowland MP, who shared lessons learned throughout her career.
“Always be humble and always be ready to learn. Listen to people who know more than you, but please don’t confuse humility with believing that you don’t deserve to be there because you do ... and as much as you can surround yourself with good people,” she said.
Other speakers included the Minister for Education The Honourable Jason Clare MP, leading international researcher, clinician and advocate for the youth mental health reform agenda Professor Patrick McGorry AO, and founder and leading Canberra entrepreneur Greg Boorer.
The University is also proud to acknowledge the students who received medals recognising their accomplishments.
Award Recipients
Chancellor’s Commendations
Presented to graduating students with the highest Grade Point Average (GPA) throughout their undergraduate degrees, this year’s recipients of Chancellor’s Commendations were:
Christopher Hancock
Amy Andersen
University Medals
The University Medal is awarded to graduating students with First Class Honours and the highest Grade Point Average (GPA), for their outstanding academic achievement. Recipients in this round were as follows:
Naomi McRae
Angela Kirkegaard
