After some years training as a Jesuit scholastic, Jim Barber left the Order and pursued doctoral studies in experimental psychology at the University of Adelaide. He held numerous academic positions since then, eventually ending his academic career as Vice-Chancellor of the University of New England, NSW.

Jim Barber now works as a consultant to and as chair or member of the boards of a number of private higher education providers. He was awarded North America’s Pro Humanitate Medal for his research into child welfare and was made a Member of the Order of Australia in 2021 for services to higher education and young people.