Murdoch University has awarded an Honorary Doctorate to Mr David Flanagan in recognition of his contributions to the field of geology, and his unwavering support through service and philanthropy to Murdoch University and the wider community.

Mr Flanagan became the University’s sixth Chancellor in 2013. He was re-elected three years later and stepped down in August 2019. He remains a member of the Vice Chancellor’s External Advisory Board. 

The holder of a BSc Mining and Minerals Exploration - Geology, Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and Member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, Mr Flanagan has extensive experience in multi-commodity mining and mineral exploration industry across Oceania and Africa over 25 years. He is currently the Executive Chairman of Battery Minerals and Non-Executive Director of Magmatic Resources. 

In 2014, he was awarded the distinguished Eisenhower Fellowship, which identifies, empowers and connects innovative leaders through a transformative fellowship experience and lifelong engagement in a global network. Eisenhower Fellows are committed to creating a world that is more peaceful, prosperous and just. 

Mr Flanagan is a respected community leader and has held positions on the boards of several charities and not-for-profit organisations, including Youth Focus, GivingWest, the Australian Mining Hall of Fame, Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts and Leukaemia Foundation. He is also a Patron for Many Rivers Microfinance, Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre, Kalparrin and the Ambassador of WA Parks Foundation.
 
Among his industry and community awards, Mr Flanagan was named a Member of the General Division of the Order of Australia Award for his significant contribution to higher education, mining, philanthropy and the community.

During his six-year tenure as Chancellor, he was a proactive advocate for Murdoch University - supporting growth and contributing to the University’s success through strong oversight of the 2017-2027 Strategic Plan.

Vice Chancellor Professor Eeva Leinonen said Mr Flanagan had provided invaluable support to Murdoch University during a period of significant transformation.

“David has always been generous with his time and provided guidance and informal mentoring to many individuals during his time as Chancellor,” she said. 

“His engaging personality sees him easily share his wealth of experience with others. David is esteemed amongst his peers and the broader Western Australian community, demonstrated by a Governor-hosted farewell dinner celebrating his contribution.

“In recognition of his standing, he was named Western Australian of the Year in 2014.”