Peter Varghese

Peter Varghese AO is a distinguished Australian diplomat, strategist, and policy leader. He currently serves as Chair of the Asialink Council and is in his second term as Chancellor of The University of Queensland, a role he has held since 2016. Over a 38-year career in public service, Mr Varghese held many of Australia’s most senior foreign policy, trade, and intelligence roles, including Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (2012–2016), Director-General of the Office of National Assessments, and Senior Adviser (International) to the Prime Minister. He has represented Australia as High Commissioner to India and Malaysia, and in postings across Tokyo, Washington, and Vienna.

Mr Varghese authored the India Economic Strategy to 2035, a landmark policy blueprint commissioned by the Prime Minister, and led the drafting of Australia’s first foreign and trade policy white paper. He holds a University Medal in history from The University of Queensland, and has been honoured with an AO, an honorary doctorate, and fellowships in both the Australian Academy of the Humanities and the Australian Institute of International Affairs. He also sits on the boards of CARE Australia, North Queensland Airports, and Singapore’s S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies. In 2019, he received the Sir Edward ‘Weary’ Dunlop Asialink Medal for his contributions to Australia-Asia relations.

As Head of the Advisory Panel, Peter brings principled leadership, strategic foresight, and a deep understanding of Australia’s global role. His stewardship ensures that the panel’s work is grounded in intellectual rigour and national purpose—guiding conversations that matter for the country’s future.