University Fellow
Citation delivered by Professor Trish Mundy at the University of Wollongong on the occasion of the admission of Graham Lancaster as a Fellow of the University of Wollongong on 15 July 2025
Deputy Chancellor, I present to you Graham Lancaster AM.
For over four decades, Graham Lancaster has been quietly transforming the Illawarra region – one mentored leader, one community initiative, and one act of service at a time. His journey from law clerk to distinguished solicitor and respected community champion demonstrates how dedication to both profession and community inspires others and creates extraordinary positive change.
Beginning his legal career in 1984 as a law clerk, Graham was admitted to the Law Society of New South Wales in 1990 and later graduated from the University of Wollongong with a Bachelor of Commerce in 1999. From these foundations, he built a respected legal practice specialising in commercial litigation and insolvency. In 2022, his significant service to the law and the Illawarra was recognised through his appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia
Graham's most profound impact lies in his commitment to developing leadership in others. As a founding member and Director of the Leadership Development Forum, and President of The Illawarra Connection since 2017, he has helped shape the Leadership Illawarra Program that has empowered more than 100 emerging leaders. Through The Illawarra Connection's leadership events, Graham has brought distinguished speakers to the region, including entrepreneur Mark Bouris and Paralympian Dylan Alcott to help inspire emerging leaders. His involvement extends well beyond facilitating opportunities for others to develop, Graham has personally mentored many participants, embodying his personal philosophy that we should each strive for growth and resilience so that we can help others.
Graham’s dedication to the Illawarra spans decades, from judging school-based mock trials then through the Corrimal Apex Club to serving seven years on the Board of the Illawarra Basketball Association. He assisted in the establishment of the Top Blokes Foundation, serving on its Board for 7 years. His dedication to mental health awareness led him to join the Board of Barstool Brothers, (now Raising the Bar Foundation), expanding their reach into education and veteran support programs.
Graham's compassion drives a remarkable personal commitment to charitable causes. He has completed the CEO Sleepout eight times, helped establish two charities, and provided pro-bono legal support to numerous foundations across the Illawarra.
UOW has been at the heart of Graham’s life for many years. Beginning with his Bachelor of Commerce in the 1990s, this connection has grown into a family legacy spanning three decades. His beautiful wife Catherine studied and worked at UOW for over 30 years, while both of their children also studied here. Living in Keiraville, Graham has made the university grounds a regular part of his life. Graham has continued to give back to the University and strengthen its connection with the community, providing mentorship through the University's Community Reference Group, and sponsoring the Lancaster Law & Mediation Prize.
Through his dedication to education, the legal profession and this community, Graham has created a legacy of leadership and integrity that will inspire others for generations to come.
Deputy Chancellor, it is a privilege to present Graham Lancaster AM for admission as a Fellow of the University of Wollongong.