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Adelaide University

A new university for the future

Overview

The proposed new Adelaide University will drive the innovation and scale needed to make transformational investments in teaching, learning and innovation for South Australia and beyond. A future-focused university that combines the strengths of the University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide to deliver nation-leading curriculum and student experience, greater access to education, and world-class research excellence.

Following careful consideration of a feasibility assessment based on 14 interdependent workstreams, both university Councils resolved to enter into a Heads of Agreement to support the State Government in the creation of a new institution.

While responding to State Government policy, a proposed Adelaide University presents an opportunity to advance our ambitions for tertiary education and innovation further and faster than what can be achieved today – charting our own course for the future.

We will shape a contemporary university that is connected to priority industries and produces graduates that are highly sought after around the world. A new university of global standing ranked in the top 1% worldwide. 

The path to today has been extensive:

  • March 2022 / The State Government was elected with a higher education policy to explore university amalgamations.
  • November 2022 / The university Councils resolved to explore the feasibility of a new university for the future.
  • December 2022 / A Statement of Cooperation was signed between both universities and the State and Federal Governments.
  • January 2023 / The universities commenced a joint feasibility assessment.
  • March 2023 / A Vision Statement was released and feedback sought from the university and broader communities.
  • June 2023 / Business case and associated documentation were presented to both university Councils.

The creation of a new Adelaide University requires necessary legal and regulatory approvals, including the passing of state legislation. The target launch date for the combined Adelaide University is 1 January 2026.

Our focus moving forward will be on transition planning and implementation, including further engagement with our communities to help design and co-create the new university.

Timeline to implementation

Messages from the Chancellors

Announcements from the University of Adelaide (UoA) Chancellor, the Hon. Catherine Branson AC KC, and the University of South Australia (UniSA) Chancellor, Pauline Carr.

Media

See the latest news and media about the potential university for the future.

Frequently asked questions

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