Gillard has a new role as an honorary visiting professor at her alma mater, the University of Adelaide where she had studied law and arts from 1979 to 1981.
Gillard said she was delighted with the appointment, which will begin on November 1.
"I am absolutely delighted to be associated in such a meaningful way with the University of Adelaide and its students and faculty," she said.
"I have been warmly welcomed, and look forward to becoming a part of the academic endeavours of the School of History and Politics.
"My purpose in coming back is to spend more time with family so of course I'm looking forward to that," she added.
