June 28, 2023

WESTERN SYDNEY UNIVERSITY

Number 1 University

We would like to share the exciting news on WSU’s Times Higher Education Impact Ranking in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals at Number 1!

Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Barney Glover AO, said it is an extraordinary achievement for the University to be recognised as best in the world two years running. 

“Achieving this outstanding result two years in a row is testament to the dedication and passion of our staff, students, researchers and community partners who have contributed to this landmark result,” said Professor Glover. 

“Western Sydney University is proud to be an institution that is working with its students, staff and communities to make the world a better place. We are a young and modern university and tackling the most pressing social and environmental challenges has always been important to our core mission” said Professor Glover. 

This year, over 1,700 institutions from 115 countries took part in the rankings, which is 21% more than last year. The ranking assesses universities on their commitment to the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) based on teaching, research, outreach and stewardship. As well as an overall ranking of number one in the world and an impressive overall score of 99.4 out of 100, our work has been recognised in the following SDG categories: 

• 1st in the world for SDG 5 Gender Equality, SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 17 Partnership for the Goals 
• 2nd in the world for SDG 6 Clean Water and Sanitation and SDG 15 Life on Land 
• 3rd in the world for SDG 10 Reduced Inequalities 
• 4th in the world for SDG 3 Good Health and Wellbeing 5th in the world for SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities 
• 7th in the world for SDG 13 Climate Action. 

A number of initiatives across the University have contributed to this result, showcasing our commitment to finding practical solutions to pressing social and environmental challenges: 

• In April, Western Sydney University was certified carbon neutral – an achievement which surpassed our original sustainability goals 
• Our world-leading researchers are finding practical solutions locally and globally on important issues like food and water security in the face of climate change, and creating more affordable housing and sustainable, resilient urban communities 
• Our innovative teaching and learning programs are encouraging students to be a force for positive change.