Murdoch University Chancellor David Flanagan has been recognised for his leadership and service to higher education, being made a Member of the General Division of the Order of Australia.

Mr Flanagan was named in the 2018 Australia Day Honours list for his significant contribution to higher education, mining, philanthropy and the community.

Since his appointment as Chancellor in 2013, Mr Flanagan has lead the University through a period of transformation to become a global institution serving the community by finding creative solutions to some of the world’s complex problems.

Mr Flanagan is a mining executive and Chief Executive Officer of Battery Minerals which plans to become a long-term supplier of materials to the booming lithium-ion battery market.

Previously, as founding boss of iron ore miner Atlas Iron, he oversaw company expansion and guided the organisation through difficult negotiations to secure its future in the Global Financial Crisis.

Mr Flanagan said he was deeply honoured to receive the Australia Day honour which reflected in part his work at Murdoch University.

“I am firmly committed to shining a light on the importance of tertiary education for the future of Western Australia and our nation.

“Murdoch University’s strategic goal is to apply world-class translational research and capacity to innovate to continue making a sustainable difference for current and future generations.

“It’s an honour to be part of the dynamic Murdoch community of teaching, learning and research where I’m constantly reminded of the power of creative minds to help our world.”

Mr Flanagan adds this latest award to prior achievements that include West Australian of the Year 2014 and winning the inaugural Governor’s Award for Giving in 2011 for his philanthropic activity.