The rankings are an international benchmark assessing universities’ contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

Charles Sturt was ranked in the top 200 universities globally, maintaining its position despite an 18 per cent increase in participating institutions.

The university also secured top-tier placements in several key SDGs:

• 12th globally for SDG 13: Climate Action (top 1 per cent) 

• 55th for SDG 5: Gender Equality (top 4 per cent)  

• 81st for SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities (top 6 per cent)  

• 75th for SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation (top 7 per cent) 

• 75th for SDG 15: Life on Land (top 9 per cent)  

“These outstanding results reflect our deep and ongoing commitment to sustainability across all aspects of university life—from research and teaching to operations and community engagement,” said Charles Sturt University Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Research (Performance and Governance) Professor Michael Friend. 

“Charles Sturt University’s staff and students embrace and apply the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in their professional practice and university experiences.” 

The announcement coincides with the release of the University’s 2024 Sustainable Development Goals Report, which showcases impactful stories from across its campuses. 

Highlights of the report include: 

• Distinguished Professor Sarah O’Shea, Dean of Graduate Studies, leading the Higher Education Equity Research Unit, which focuses on equitable access, participation and success for underrepresented groups in higher education 

• Director of External Engagement (Port Macquarie), Kate Wood-Foye, who champions strong relationships with local communities towards sustainable development, skills and resilient communities 

• Communications student Charlie Willis, setting an example and enriching his student experience through leading the Bathurst Football Club and fundraising initiatives to support local mental healthcare 

• PhD candidate Ruth Pape, who investigates impactful innovations in medical imaging to enhance patient outcomes and shares her research and skills in Papua New Guinea 

• Dr Jonathon Howard, from the school of Agriculture, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, who has led impactful sustainability projects as chair of the Albury-Wodonga campus environmental committee 

Charles Sturt continues to lead by example as Australia’s first certified carbon neutral university, aligning its strategic direction with the global SDG agenda.  

“Our achievements are a testament to the passion and dedication of our staff, students, and partners,” said Professor Friend. 

“We’re proud to be making a real difference, locally and globally.”