VIP Visits and Events

The Australian National University hosts numerous official VIP visitors each year from across Australia and around the world.

VIP visits often originate from the Vice-Chancellor’s office or from a senior officer in one of the Schools, Faculties or Centres - but in all cases, such visits should be advised to the VIP Visits and Protocol officer as soon as they are in prospect.

The University has a full-time VIP Visits & Protocol Officer as part of CELO who coordinates the visits and liaises with the visitors and external agencies.

Services provided by the VIP Visits Office
The role of the VIP Visits & Protocol Officer is to manage VIP visits, especially those involving meetings with the University Executive and with Deans, Directors and Heads of other areas of the University, and to advise on Protocol issues relating to VIP events on campus.

The VIP Visits & Protocol Officer is responsible for oversight of the details and arrangements so that each official VIP’s visit to The Australian National University is a smooth and successful one. The arrangements can often be very involved, covering an extensive program of meetings on campus, meal arrangements, publicity, accommodation, transportation and official gifts. They may also involve liaison with external agencies such as the Office of Ceremonial and Hospitality in the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade or Australian Protective Services. The Officer acts as the point of contact on behalf of the University, managing correspondence with the VIP visitors and liaison with external agencies, including government departments and diplomatic missions, in order to ensure a consistently high-quality delivery of service to visitors.

The VIP Visits & Protocol Officer can also assist in the organisation of a separate program for a spouse who may not be included in a VIP program. The VIP Visits & Protocol Officer will also advise and assist in the arrangements for a special function where VIP guests are to be present. Call the Office for further help or information.

Steps involved in organising a visit:
1.    Contact VIP Visits & Protocol Officer 6125 5002

2.    Complete the Request for a Visit document  identifing the purpose of the visit etc

3.    Confirm date and time

4.    Identify key persons to meet the delegation

5.    Prepare program and book venue/s

6.    Create a running sheet for the visit

7.    Determine catering, photography and contact relevant people on campus

8.    Determine if others are required to be invite to attend

10.   Advise ANU Security

Sandy Hawke, VIP Visits & Protocol Officer
T:6125 5002
M: 0416 249 835 
F:6125 5568
E:vip.visits@anu.edu.au