In a landmark development for South Australian higher education, the newly established Adelaide University has made its debut, positioning itself prominently on the global stage. This new institution represents a merger of the University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of universities in the region.
Adelaide University’s launch is characterized by a transformative approach to education, with a bold new brand, an innovative website, and an initial offering of approximately 200 coursework programs designed to attract international students. Prospective students from around the world can now begin the admissions process in anticipation of the university’s opening in 2026.
Professors Peter Høj AC and David Lloyd, co-Vice Chancellors of Adelaide University, hailed this event as a pivotal moment for South Australia and the communities of the merging institutions. They emphasized the significance of this new major Australian university, the first of its kind to be established this century.
“Adelaide University’s launch is a monumental step for future generations of learners, researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs,” stated Professors Høj and Lloyd. “Our new institution will operate at a scale that breaks new ground and serves as a force for good.”
The university’s ambitions are reflected in its dynamic visual identity, which merges the strong legacies of its predecessors while focusing on the future. Professors Høj and Lloyd highlighted the enduring nature of Adelaide University’s brand, designed to remain compelling for decades.
“Adelaide University is set to drive a transformative agenda as a global education and research powerhouse,” they added. “We aim to be an exemplar of excellence and equity, aligning with the vision of the Australian Universities Accord.”
Adelaide University plans to join the prestigious Group of Eight (Go8) research-intensive universities, building on the strengths of its founding institutions to meet the needs of future global citizens. The university will offer a comprehensive range of programs across all major disciplines currently available at the University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide. The new website features programs aligned with international student interests, facilitating the admissions process. Additional programs, including those for domestic students, regional study options, and research degrees, will be released progressively. Local applications for the 2026 academic year will open in August 2025, along with a comprehensive suite of online programs.
A distinctive feature of Adelaide University’s curriculum is the ‘Adelaide Attainment Model’, which includes modular and stackable learning, a flexible academic calendar, integration of AI technologies, work-integrated learning, and common core courses across all degree programs. This model ensures that students are at the forefront of their education, catering to lifelong learners from diverse backgrounds and equipping them with the skills needed to address contemporary challenges.
“Our goal is to provide Australia’s most accessible, contemporary, and future-focused education,” the co-Vice Chancellors explained. “Adelaide University aims to empower students to transform their communities and the world by unlocking their potential and discovering their purpose.”
In addition to its educational offerings, Adelaide University will leverage the extensive research capabilities and industry partnerships of its founding institutions. By collaborating with communities, the university will conduct groundbreaking research that drives innovation and economic growth. Every degree will incorporate industry-informed learning and rich work-integrated experiences.
In a celebratory event at the Adelaide Convention Centre, more than 3,000 staff members from the merging universities gathered to honor the achievements and legacies of their current institutions and to look forward to the exciting new chapter ahead.
The co-Vice Chancellors also revealed plans to unveil the institution’s Aboriginal name, making Adelaide University the first in Australia to include this provision in its founding legislation. Upon its inception, Adelaide University will be the largest domestic educator of students in Australia, aiming to be a university of choice for Aboriginal students and staff. It is also expected to graduate more students from low socio-economic backgrounds than any other Australian higher education institution and will be among the top five educators of regional and rural students.
Economic modeling suggests that Adelaide University’s activities will contribute approximately A$4.7 billion annually to the Australian economy. Both the University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide will continue to serve their communities through 2024 and 2025, maintaining essential functions into 2026 to support the transition.
With this merger, Adelaide University is set to redefine the landscape of higher education in South Australia, combining legacy and innovation to create a world-class institution.
