Former NSW Premier the Honourable Nick Greiner AC was recognised for his contributions across business and politics by the University of Sydney.
Former New South Wales Premier Nick Greiner was awarded the honour of Doctor of Business (honoris causa) during a ceremony held in New York on Saturday, 8 October, presided over by Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Mark Scott AO.
“Across business and politics, Nick’s achievements are remarkable,” said Professor Scott. “Throughout his illustrious career, he has served the nation and helped the community through his work in policy and his environmental efforts. He continues to influence the next generation of leaders, the future of business and the important relationship between Australia and the United States.”
Mr Greiner moved with his family from Hungary to Australia in the early 1950s. After graduating from high school, he studied at the University of Sydney, receiving an Honours Degree in Economics. Later he attained an MBA with High Distinction from Harvard Business School.
In 1980, he entered NSW Parliament as the Liberal Member for Ku-ring-gai, which kicked off his successful political career. Mr Greiner worked his way through the ranks to become Leader of the Opposition from 1983 until 1988, when he became Premier of New South Wales, as well as Treasurer and Minister for Ethnic and Aboriginal Affairs until 1992.
“Throughout his illustrious career, he has served the nation and helped the community through his work in policy and his environmental efforts. He continues to influence the next generation of leaders, the future of business and the important relationship between Australia and the United States.”
-Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Mark Scott AO
During those years, he contributed significantly to state GST reforms and infrastructure policy, including introducing new managerialism in the state public sector. He also established Australia’s first dedicated anti-corruption agency, the State Environmental Protection Authority, the Senior Executive Service and the privatisation of state businesses.
In 1994, Mr Greiner was awarded a Companion of the Order of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for his reforms in the public sector and services to the Australian community. He also received the Centenary Medal in 2001.
Mr Greiner was elected Federal President of the Liberal Party in 2017, a position he held until 2020. He is a Life Member of the NSW Division of the Liberal Party, the NSW Institute of Directors and the professional accounting body CPA Australia.
In 2021, he stepped into the role of Consul General for Australia in New York and Northeast US. In these roles, he is responsible for pursuing Australia’s interests with federal, state and local government representatives and supporting the alliance between Australia and the United States.
Mr Greiner’s achievements in business over the last 30 years have been significant. He has served as Chair or Deputy Chair of organisations including Harper & Row (Australasia), Bradken, Citigroup (Australia), Coles Myer Ltd, Rothschild (Australia), Stockland Trust, QBE Insurance and Castle Harlan Australian Mezzanine. In addition, he was Chairman of Infrastructure NSW and the European Australian Business Council.
Honorary degrees are awarded to individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the wider community or who have achieved exceptional academic or creative excellence.
