UNSW is driving progress through philanthropy

09 Dec 2024
Fiji

We are celebrating our philanthropic success in 2024 and a decade of impact.

UNSW Sydney has achieved another milestone in 2024, once again raising an impressive $100 million through philanthropy. This success is a testament to the generosity of our donor community and reflects the University’s commitment to our mission of progress for all.

This achievement builds on a remarkable decade of giving, during which more than $685 million has been raised to support vital causes. Contributions from more than 25,800 donors, including alumni, faculty, staff and philanthropic partners, have fuelled impactful projects and life-changing initiatives.

A decade of giving

Over the past 10 years, philanthropy at UNSW has:

  • supported 26 Academic Chairs, world-leading experts contributing to the UNSW community
  • provided funding for more than 2500 scholarships, transforming the lives of students
  • enabled groundbreaking research and programs that tackle some of society’s greatest challenges.

These figures represent more than just numbers – they embody the people, futures and opportunities made possible by philanthropy.

Transformative contributions in 2024

This year we have received significant contributions, including:

  • $25.9 million from the Swire Group to the Kirby Institute, advancing efforts to eliminate cervical cancer in the Pacific – the largest single donation in UNSW history.
  • $7.5 million from The Sir William Tyree Foundation to establish scholarships in nuclear engineering at the UNSW Nuclear Innovation Centre.
  • $2.5 million bequest pledged by UNSW alumna Lynne Billard to fund scholarships for female students, with a focus on mathematics.
  • our UNSW EOY (end of year) 2024 Appeal is raising impactful funds to help support UNSW Gateway students and make higher education more accessible.

These milestones illustrate how philanthropy continues to drive innovation, equity and progress across UNSW and beyond.

UNSW’s Chief Advancement Officer, Lindsay Robinson, reflected on the profound difference philanthropy makes.

“Over the past decade, donors’ collective support has truly shaped our University. Together, we’ve raised more than $685 million for vital causes – from innovative research and life-changing scholarships to programs that strengthen communities worldwide.

“While we celebrate these achievements and the transformative power of philanthropy, there’s still so much more we can achieve together. UNSW is ambitious, and with ongoing partnerships, we can continue to tackle the greatest challenges of our time and support future leaders.”

Showcasing impact: the new UNSW Donor video

Our new donor impact video highlights how philanthropy powers innovation and student success at UNSW. From disaster resilience and groundbreaking medical technology to world-leading solar electric vehicle research, donor generosity fuels lasting change.

Watch the video.

 

Individual stories showcased in the video

  • Professor David Sanderson: Building Resilience Globally
    Learn how the Judith Neilson Chair of Architecture empowers communities to withstand disasters.
  • Tyree IHealthE: Pioneering Medical Technology
    Discover how donor support accelerates breakthroughs in healthcare through Tyree IHealthE.
  • Sunswift Racing Team: Racing Towards Innovation
    Explore the cutting-edge solar electric vehicle program at UNSW Sydney, supported by philanthropy.

Looking forward

As UNSW celebrates these achievements, the University remains ambitious about the future. Through continued donor partnerships, UNSW is poised to tackle global challenges, support students and drive innovation for years to come.

Thank you to our donors for making this progress possible. Together, we’re shaping a brighter future.

Read more

  • Record $25.9 million donation to help eliminate cervical cancer in the Pacific. Read more.
  • $7.5m Sir William Tyree Foundation gift funds Nuclear Innovation Centre. Read more.
  • Against the odds: From Toowoomba to triumph. Read more.
  • UNSW EOY 2024 Appeal. Learn more.

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