Pacific Engagement
We are strongly committed to building capacity and supporting sustainable development in partnership with Pacific Island communities.
Our engagement in the Pacific is guided by the Strategic Plan - Looking Ahead 2030 focuses on the Pacific region and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
We work with Pacific governments, organisations, and communities to tackle shared challenges through research and education. Guided by the principle "By the Pacific, for the Pacific," these partnerships are built on respect and collaboration, helping to build skills and create opportunities for sustainable growth across the region.
Strategic themes
Our core values in the Pacific
- Excellence – We aim for high quality teaching, research, and leadership that builds knowledge and skills across places and generations.
- Equity – We believe everyone deserves the chance to learn and succeed, no matter their background.
- Engagement – We build trusted and respectful partnerships based on reciprocity, honouring knowledge, traditions, and languages.
- Sustainability – We care for the environment and future generations, guided by Pacific ideas of responsibility and stewardship.
Strategic partners
We build strong and long‑lasting relationships with Pacific governments, institutions, ministries and community organisations. Through these partnerships, we support Pacific communities as they work to create resilient futures and achieve meaningful, locally led results. This collaborative approach ensures our work in the region remains focused, effective and aligned with shared goals for sustainable development.
- Cook Islands National Environment Service
- Fiji Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Service
- Department of Health, Papua New Guinea
- Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa
- Samoa Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment
- Samoa Ministry of Sports and Recreation
- Samoa Ministry of Education and Culture
- Samoa Tourism Authority
- Ministry of Health, Vanuatu
- Ministry of Education and Training, Vanuatu
Global experience and exchange
In partnership with Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade (DFAT), we offer a range of global experiences and exchange opportunities.
New Colombo Plan Scholarship Program
These scholarships are open to eligible Australian undergraduates currently studying at Australian universities.
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New Colombo Plan Semester and Mobility Program
This program offers international short term credit-bearing experiences for undergraduate students in the Indo-Pacific region.
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Australia Awards Fellowships
These aim to build networks by strengthening partnerships between organisations in Australia and the Pacific region.
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Supporting the Sustainable Development Goals
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals are a collection of 17 interlinked global goals designed to be a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future.
Pacific happenings
Research Impact
Read about the impacts we are making in the region with our Pacific partners.
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News and events
Learn about events, international delegations, activities and global experiences.
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More information
Contact the Pacific Engagement Team
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.