Announcement of new Executive Director 

Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture, Charles Sturt University

The Chair of the Board of the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture, the Rt Rev’d Dr Sarah Macneil, and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research of Charles Sturt University, Professor Mark Evans, are delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Anthony Maher as the new Executive Director of the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture.

Professor Maher is a fine scholar who has worked extensively in pastoral and practical theology. He is the former Consultant Theologian to Catholic Education Catholic Diocese of Parramatta and has lived out his commitment to the community as a consultant to Catholic Aged Care, in developing educational resources, and in professional development for educators and clergy.

His work aligns strongly with the Centre’s mission to promote ecumenical and interfaith dialogue, with a deep commitment to dialogue, reconciliation, and theological engagement within Australian society. 

Professor Maher has a collaborative leadership style and a strong track record in developing strategic partnerships. He was previously Director, Academic Dean and Professor of Theology at the Broken Bay Institute. Professor Maher has just published Theology and the People of God, in collaboration with eighteen Australian theologians and is currently completing a book on Synodality.  

In announcing the appointment Dr Macneil paid tribute to the work of the outgoing Director, Professor Stephen Pickard, and said, ‘the Board is excited to work with Professor Maher in this next phase of its development. We believe he will build on Professor Pickard’s legacy and lead the Centre with passion and excellence.’ 

The Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture was established as a partnership between Charles Sturt University and the Anglican Diocese of Canberra and Goulburn. The Diocesan Bishop, Rt Rev’d Mark Short, also welcomes the appointment.  

Professor Maher will take up the position on 28 March 2022.