Academic Dress

Graduates are required to wear the approved University of Newcastle academic dress which includes a gown, and if appropriate, a hood and trencher (cap) or bonnet. If you are required to wear a trencher or bonnet on your head, we recommend a hairstyle that allows this to sit comfortably.

The hire of your academic dress is part of your graduation package and is paid for through the online graduation registration system at the same time you register. You are welcome to enrich the colour of the ceremony with garments from your cultural tradition. Academic dress hire terms and conditions (for Australian ceremonies) can also be viewed online before payment has been processed.

The academic gown is three-quarters in length and opens at the front, so your clothes will be visible. The gown is made of heavy material, so you may consider this and the weather when selecting your outfit.

You will be accessing the stage via stairs, so we recommend that you consider this when selecting your footwear.

If you require alternative access to the stage e.g. via the ramp, please indicate this in the online registration system.

Collecting your Academic Dress

Academic dress is collected on the day of your ceremony from Level 5 NUspace building at the following times:

Please only arrive to collect your Academic Dress at the time allocated for your ceremony.

Returning your Academic Dress

The Academic Dress return location is on the lower floor of Newcastle City Hall in the Newcastle Room. Signage will guide you to Academic Dress return.

Important: Your Academic Dress must be returned before leaving campus on the day of your ceremony.

If you would like to purchase all or part of your academic dress, please contact:

Academic Dress Hire
Phone: +61 2 4985 4132
Email: ad-hire@newcastle.edu.au

Additional information

• How do I wear my academic dress?
• List of Current Awards and academic dress