'Difficult period': court order as retiring University of Newcastle vice-chancellor's wife charged

Police have taken out an interim Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO), against Olga Zelinsky, the wife of University of Newcastle vice-chancellor Alex Zelinsky after an alleged assault.

The interim order was issued in Newcastle Local Court on Tuesday.

It is alleged the incident occurred at Islington between 9.30pm and 10pm on October 19.

Ms Zelinsky was arrested the following day and charged with common assault.

She has pleaded not guilty and has been granted bail.

The matter has been listed for hearing on June 2, 2027.

The AVO application has also been adjourned to the same date.

The interim AVO says that Ms Zelinsky must not assault or threaten Professor Zelinsky, stalk, harass or intimidate him or intentionally or recklessly destroy or damage any property or harm an animal that belongs to or is in his possession.

A spokesman for Professor Zelinsky said: "Professor Zelinsky and his family are navigating a difficult period and appreciate privacy and sensitivity as they move through a challenging time."

Professor Zelinsky announced on October 7, that he would retire from the role of vice-chancellor in February 2027, a year before his contract was due to end.

In a LinkedIn post, Professor Zelinsky said he and his wife planned to continue living in Newcastle after his retirement.

Ms Zelinsky is a director of StreetKind.co, an organisation that encourages pro-social behaviours that prevent harm.

StreetKind's website says that Ms Zelinsky has actively supported the community sector in various capacities including mental wellbeing education, diversional therapy, mentoring, program coordination and volunteer management.

Mental health, innovation and novel strategies that overcome isolation and loneliness are of special interest to Ms Zelinsky.