NUsport — Sports, Wellbeing, and Engagement

The University of Newcastle’s NUsport programs delivered a wide range of activities in Q1 to promote student wellbeing, engagement, and active lifestyles.

  • Elite Athlete & Sports Scholar Support: 152 applications were processed, with 115 students accepted into the Elite Athlete Program and 54 supported under the Sports Scholar Program. Over 60 student support cases were also recorded, helping balance sport and study.
  • Social Sport & Recreation: Although delivery is still ramping up, over 150 residential students participated in social sports, and at least four competitions or programs per semester are planned to foster connection and wellbeing.
  • Discounted Forum Memberships: More than 1,200 students per month accessed discounted gym and wellness memberships, supporting physical and mental health.
  • Orientation & Events: Orientation activities reached 6,000 students across Callaghan, Ourimbah, and Newcastle, offering free Forum passes, sport activations, and boosting membership sign-ups.
  • VC International Students vs Staff Challenge: 150+ students joined events like the basketball tournament, fostering cultural connection, belonging, and healthy competition.
  • Student Clubs: 20 NUsport clubs ran in Q1, with 1,200 participants, providing community and networking opportunities beyond the classroom.
  • Accommodation & Pop-Up Gym at Central Coast: The Ourimbah Pop-Up Gym served 100–200 students, with discounted memberships and programs promoting local campus activation.
  • Representation at UniSport & Indigenous Nationals: Over 250 students prepared to represent the university at UniNationals and Indigenous Nationals, building pride, connection, and peer support.
  • International Swim & Survive Program: Planning is underway for Semester 2 to offer water safety and swimming sessions, particularly targeting international students.

Overall, these initiatives have supported physical activity, social inclusion, cultural connection, and student success, while strengthening campus life and student wellbeing.