The resignation of Genevieve Bell as vice-chancellor of the Australian National University (ANU) has ignited intense discussions about the future of the institution. Many are questioning whether her departure is sufficient for a much-needed reset after months of turmoil. Some stakeholders are calling for stability, while others argue that true change cannot occur as long as Chancellor Julie Bishop remains in her position.

Following Bell's resignation, Bishop stated there were "no grounds" for her to resign as well. She has denied allegations of bullying and has committed to overseeing the search for a new vice-chancellor. However, students like Connor Moloney, a second-year music major, expressed concern. "Bell stepping down is a huge win for us, but our degree is still not safe. We still don't know what next year looks like," he said. Moloney added that the proposed changes to the School of Music, which would merge it with another department, have left students anxious about their education. "Everyone is looking at other unis. I know a lot of people just put in auditions for Monash last week to try and transfer for their last year or their last two years," he noted.

The Australian National University Students' Association (ANUSA) president, Will Burfoot, welcomed Bell's resignation but emphasized that deeper issues remain. "Most people are able to acknowledge that the issues at this university are not contained to one person; they are far deeper than that," he said. Burfoot pointed out a decline in educational quality and a pervasive culture of fear and anxiety on campus. He stressed the need for urgent reforms in governance, stating, "People don't have confidence that students are being involved in the decision-making process, that their voices are being heard."

Peter Tregear, a former head of the ANU's School of Music, echoed these sentiments, stating that Bell's departure alone would not suffice for a reset. He expressed concerns about Bishop's continued leadership, saying, "I think at some point it behoves people in these governance positions to take personal responsibility. The ANU is in a bit of a mess and does need a bit of a reset and a refresh."

Christine Nixon, a former Victorian police commissioner, highlighted the importance of including staff and students in discussions about the university's future. She stated, "To go forward and then think through, collectively, I think will be the most important part — how to achieve the goals and how to get it on a more steady place."

Independent Senator David Pocock has called for federal intervention in the situation at ANU. Nixon noted that the university is already under investigation by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) regarding its operations. Despite Bishop's assertion that the university has "turned a page" with Bell's resignation, many believe that significant leadership changes are still necessary.

Professor John Blaxland commented on the pressures faced by Bell, describing her situation as a "poisoned chalice" amid financial challenges and the impact of COVID-19. He urged for increased federal investment in the university sector, criticizing the government's hands-off approach.

Federal member for Canberra Alicia Payne described the current state of ANU as a crisis, stating, "The ANU is in crisis at the moment and clearly a reset was required." She emphasized that the management of the "Renew ANU" process has been inadequate, affecting the university's reputation and community trust. Labor ministers have sought a meeting with Bishop to discuss the next steps to address the ongoing issues.