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AARNet Advisory Committee

Rachel Newton - AARNet Advisory Committee

Rachel Newton

Tasmania

Rachel Newton is the Chief Information Officer at the University of Tasmania.

Rachel brings exceptional depth in enterprise technology leadership, digital transformation, and AI strategy, developed across senior roles in the Australian and New Zealand public sectors and leading commercial organisations. She has a strong track record of aligning digital strategy to organisational purpose, ensuring technology investments deliver meaningful outcomes for the people and communities they serve. 

Most recently, Rachel served as the inaugural Chief Information Officer of the Essential Services Commission (Victoria) where she built the organisation's technology function from the ground up. Prior to this, Rachel was Director of Technology Development at New Zealand Police, leading the delivery of critical services for front-line Police and local communities. 

Rachel’s leadership is grounded in a human-centred approach by focusing on the experience of staff and students, strengthening capability, and fostering genuine partnership across the organisation. At the University of Tasmania, she plays a vital role in shaping a contemporary, secure and connected digital environment that supports teaching, research and operations. This work is central to delivering an excellent experience for staff and students, and in enabling the University of Tasmania's mission to make a difference for Tasmania.