Performance reflects UOW's commitment to environmental and social impact and its Vision 2035 sustainability goals
The University of Wollongong (UOW) has been recognised among the world's leading universities for environmental and social impact, ranking 138th globally and 16th in Australia in the QS Sustainability Rankings 2026.
Over 2,000 universities were assessed globally this year, an increase of 250 ranked institutions.
This year's results reflect UOW's ongoing commitment to advancing sustainability and social equity across its teaching, research and community initiatives.
UOW Vice-Chancellor and President Professor G.Q. Max Lu said the results reaffirmed the University's ongoing commitment to sustainability to complement its Vision 2035 pillars.
"Sustainability is embedded in our purpose and Vision 2035. UOW integrates sustainability across its education, research and community partnerships to deliver meaningful impact," Professor Lu said.
"We remain focused on advancing equality, wellbeing and employability outcomes, while also strengthening our environmental initiatives to ensure a lasting positive impact for future generations.
UOW delivered strong results across key sustainability and social impact measures, securing several top-100 global rankings:
• Social Impact – 78th globally, reflecting UOW's sustained commitment to creating a more equitable and sustainable society.
• Impact of Education – =37th globally, demonstrating our dedication to education that drives positive social change and empowers future generations.
• Governance – =86th globally, highlighting our focus on responsible leadership, transparency and inclusive practice.
• Equality – =64th globally, recognising our enduring commitment to equity, inclusion and fair outcomes.
• Health and Wellbeing – =78th globally, acknowledging UOW's work to build healthy, supportive and thriving communities.
These strengths reflect the impact UOW is committed to creating in sustainability. The University is preparing to install 10 community-scale batteries (combined 2 MW capacity, two-hour storage) across Wollongong and Innovation campuses. These will connect to a virtual power plant to support the University's transition to cleaner energy, reduce electricity costs, and create new revenue streams.
The University's Sustainable Buildings Research Centre (SBRC) continues to act as a living laboratory, housing more than 400 solar panels, on-site water harvesting and energy-efficient systems designed to demonstrate real-world sustainability solutions.
Earlier this year, UOW was recognised among world's top universities for sustainability impact and placed 31st globally and 7th in Australia in Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025.
UOW continues to lead initiatives to reduce energy and water use, cut emissions, and improve biodiversity and waste management across UOW campuses.
