University of Newcastle Awarded Keys to the City for 60 Years of Service

newy.com.au – The University of Newcastle has been awarded the Keys to the City in a ceremony at Newcastle City Hall, marking six decades of significant contributions to the city’s educational, cultural and economic development. The civic honour, conferred during a special graduation event on 18 July 2025, recognises the institution’s foundational role in shaping Newcastle’s identity and future.

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge presented the award, commending the University for its role in transforming Newcastle into a hub of learning and opportunity. “The University and its students have played a pivotal role in transforming Newcastle into a city of learning, aspiration and progress. Their influence is woven through our city and communities,” Cr Kerridge said. He noted the University’s impact on local lives, especially through its support of ‘first in family’ students and its dedication to widening access to tertiary education.

The decision to grant the honour was led by Councillor Declan Clausen and unanimously endorsed by Newcastle City Council in May. Cr Clausen praised the University’s leadership in equity and inclusion, highlighting programs such as Yapug and Open Foundation. “The University has long been a leader of inclusive education, with a deep commitment to equity that has delivered lasting benefits to our city, region, state, nation and beyond,” he said. He also credited the University’s central role in Newcastle’s urban transformation through the development of City Campus and NUspace.

Chancellor Patricia Forsythe AM accepted the Keys on behalf of the institution, joined by Elders in Residence Aunty Cheryl Newton and Aunty Amanda Kelly from the Wollotuka Institute, students, alumni and community members spanning the University’s 60-year history. Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky described the recognition as a reflection of the collective efforts of the University community. “This is a proud moment for our institution. For 60 years, our staff, students and alumni have worked to deliver meaningful change, for Newcastle and across the world,” he said.

Founded in 1965 to serve the Hunter region, the University of Newcastle has grown from a small college into a globally ranked institution educating more than 38,000 students each year and operates five campuses, including its flagship Callaghan campus and the NUspace facility in the CBD.

The University joins 13 other recipients in receiving the Keys to the City as part of the City of Newcastle Ambassador Program, which recognises individuals and organisations making a lasting civic impact. Anniversary celebrations will continue throughout 2025 with public lectures, alumni events and open days showcasing the University’s legacy and future ambitions.