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19 DEC 2025
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As 2025 comes to a close, we reflect on the significant progress made by the McKinnon Institute for Political Leadership (MKI) — a year that has cemented our impact and strengthened our contribution to better political leadership in Australia.
We close the year with an important announcement: Dr Susan Close will join McKinnon as the new MKI CEO and Professor of Practice in early 2026.
Susan brings exceptional experience as former Deputy Premier of South Australia (2022–2025) in addition to senior cabinet roles spanning climate, environment, industry and education.
Before entering Executive Government, Susan built a strong career in the South Australian public service, holding senior roles in the Department for Environment. She led policy development, regulatory reform and major environmental initiatives—work that established her reputation for evidence-based leadership, collaboration and system improvement.
Susan has completed a PhD in political science and worked at the University of Adelaide, where she was highly regarded for her scholarship and commitment to developing the next generation of leaders.
Susan's blend of academic rigour, public service expertise and executive government leadership uniquely positions her to ensure that our programs remain world-class, research-informed and deeply relevant to the realities of political life.
The McKkinnon Institute for Political Leadership
MKI combines the research and teaching capabilities of one of the world’s highest ranked universities with the focus, agility and ambition of one of Australia’s most forward-thinking philanthropic organisations.
Our leadership team, board and faculty include representatives from politics, research, industry and the public sector, each at the peak of their disciplines. Together, they provide a rich and ever-evolving set of approaches to equipping Australia’s political leaders to meet the challenges of our age.
EXPLORE MORE FROM MCKINNON
Leadership
The quality of Australia’s political leadership directly impacts our nation’s ability to address complex challenges and seize opportunities. That is why we invest in building and celebrating exceptional Leaders.
Public Sector
The effectiveness of Australia’s public sector directly impacts our nation’s productivity and success. That is why we invest in developing measurable frameworks that drive impact and making research and resources accessible and useable.
Policy Innovation
Australia faces specific challenges that require fresh thinking and proven solutions. From education inequality to economic productivity, we need policy approaches that work - not just in theory, but in practice. That’s why we focus on finding and implementing the best policy innovation to accelerate progress and build trust.