UNSW Societal Impact Framework
Our shared, anchoring purpose and commitment to improve life on earth.
Since UNSW was established in 1949, we have been guided by our distinctive purpose: to advance public good. Today, in 2025, we reaffirm our commitment to expansive and inclusive impact.
This year, we launch our inaugural UNSW Societal impact Framework which is at the core of the UNSW Strategy: Progress for All. Together, these outline our roadmap for the next decade and equip us for the next 25 years as we strive for collective progress.
We developed the Framework with the ambition of amplifying the impact of our groundbreaking research, quality education, engagement with our stakeholders and community, and governance as a leading global university. We aspire to build on our outstanding foundations and improve society and the environment for current and future generations.
View the brochure below:
The Framework's Impact Focus Areas are four of the nine Strategic Pillars in the UNSW Strategy. These Impact Focus Areas connect some of the most pressing socioeconomic, environmental and health challenges of our time with areas where UNSW is uniquely placed to have significant impact locally and globally.
The Impact Focus Areas are:
The Framework also acts as a guide for decision-making, expanding our networks, developing partnerships, and opening new doors to funding opportunities. It informs how we will evaluate our impact and creates a shared understanding of the breadth and depth of our impact on society.
It is through our UNSW Strategy: Progress for All that the ambitions of the UNSW Societal Impact Framework will be realised.