Message from the Chancellor

Strategic plan in action

This has been evidenced by Swinburne’s significant rise in numerous academic global rankings. Notably, in the 2024 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, Swinburne climbed into the top 250, a significant leap of 100 places compared to the previous year.

This did not happen by accident. This was Horizon 2025 in action, a strategic plan like no other, delivering results.

As we align our vision with the demands and challenges of the 21st century, we have keenly sharpened our research into areas where we know we can make the maximum impact, including space, sustainability and medical technology. 

This strategic shift in our research ecosystem is already leaving its mark globally, with a significant enhancement in our standing. In the 2024  THE rankings, Swinburne ascended to the 102nd spot globally in Research Quality, a clear indication of our successful efforts. This ranking not only highlights the quality and impact of our research but also acknowledges the commitment and expertise of our faculty and the efficacy of our implemented strategies.

Bringing people and technology together for a better world

It was an honour to lead Swinburne’s governing body again this year as the university continued to contribute to the productivity and economic growth of the state, the nation and the communities in which our campuses operate. Swinburne’s vision is to bring people and technology together for a better world, positively influencing society by transforming lives through education and research.

Council members are acutely aware of our responsibility in guiding this vision. We recognise our obligation to serve not only the university but also the wider community to which we belong. 

We are incredibly proud of our role developing a highly skilled labour force across diverse industries, addressing pressing skills gaps and driving societal value through research and innovation.

In its third year, Horizon 2025 continued to set a clear path forward for Swinburne. It defined our priorities as the prototype of a new and different university, unified under our shared vision and reaching for our ambitious moon shots around employability, work integrated learning, research, industry collaboration and global best practice.

Collaboration vital to delivering high-performing education

In October, the Albanese Government unveiled a landmark five-year National Skills Agreement (NSA) valued at $12.6 billion, set to commence in January 2024. The agreement between the Commonwealth, states and territories underscores the critical role of vocational education in nurturing and providing the essential skills vital for our economy.

As a dual-sector institution, Swinburne is uniquely placed to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the successful execution of this new agreement, revitalising Australia’s educational landscape to forge a contemporary, forward-thinking vocational system.

These recent initiatives, undertaken by both State and Commonwealth Governments, show how vital collaboration is to deliver a high-performing, world-class educational sector across higher and vocational education. This holds pivotal significance in the quest for a more  equitable society and a robust economy.

While this marks a promising outcome for the VET sector, extending more significant support to our universities would undoubtedly facilitate the endeavour of forging a more prosperous economic future for all Australians. 

Australia needs an expanded pool of skilled labourers and heightened investments in research and development, as opposed to reductions. Achieving these objectives hinges on increased government investment.

2024 will be a pivotal year. The Australian Universities Accord, a topic of considerable discussion in 2023, is anticipated to be at the forefront. Swinburne took an active role in shaping the discussion around the Universities Accord and eagerly awaits the release of the Commonwealth Government’s response to the final report. Swinburne knows that universities play a crucial role in the success and prosperity of our society, we must not waste this opportunity for real reform.

Looking forward to the future

At Swinburne, we are proud to be the sort of university the future demands. And with this in mind, Council approved the reappointment of Professor Quester as Vice-Chancellor and President, for a second five-year term. It assures that Swinburne will continue its upward trajectory, offering world-class education and providing graduates with innovative, next- generation qualifications that go far beyond traditional academic qualifications.

My admiration for our university’s excellence and its transformative impact on countless lives continues to grow. The remarkable achievements of Swinburne stem directly from the exceptional individuals who comprise our community. I am deeply grateful to everyone who contributes to our shared success – my colleagues on the Council, our dedicated academic and professional staff, our vibrant student body, alumni, partners and stakeholders.

On behalf of the Swinburne Council, I extend our heartfelt thanks to the Vice-Chancellor and her executive team for their extraordinary efforts and significant achievements in 2023.

I look forward to another successful year in 2024.