University House operates as a University trading enterprise under a Charter approved by the Council of the Australian National University.
Under the Charter, the purpose of University House is to support the University’s vision, values and strategic priorities, through providing a distinctive, inclusive and respectful collegial environment which:
- respects the unique heritage and character of University House, and its special role in the life of the University since its foundation;
- offers accommodation, events, and hospitality facilities and services, of a style and standard befitting the University;
- welcomes staff and students of the University and their guests, visitors to the University, and members of the wider community, to those facilities and services;
- is both a residence and centre for postgraduate students of the University, and;
- enhances the University’s reputation through the conduct of all its activities.
The University appoints a senior academic as the Master of University House. The Master reports to the University’s Chief Campus Environment Officer; is advised by a Board representing staff, students and members; and works with a Manager and their staff who operate University House.
There have been eight Masters of University House since 1954. Professor Peter Kanowski has been Master since 2014; you can read more about his academic work here.