Exciting trans-Tasman partnership

The partnership between the University of Newcastle and the University of Waikato demonstrates how a trans-Tasman relationship can translate into meaningful outcomes across research, teaching, and community engagement.

Our partnership

Built on a formal strategic partnership, the collaboration brings together shared strengths in areas such as Indigenous engagement, health, engineering, and social sciences, creating a platform for sustained and impactful cooperation.

At the centre of this partnership in action is a jointly established seed funding initiative, designed to catalyse new ideas and deepen collaboration. Since its introduction, the program has supported a wide range of interdisciplinary projects involving academics, professional staff, and early career researchers, enabling both institutions to pilot innovative work and build pathways towards larger-scale research and external funding opportunities.

Beyond research, the partnership actively supports student mobility, academic exchange, and industry engagement across Australia and New Zealand. It reflects a shared commitment to developing globally connected graduates, strengthening professional networks, and delivering tangible benefits to communities on both sides of the Tasman. This is partnership in action, where strategic intent is translated into collaborative programs, shared investment, and measurable impact.

Members of the Waikato delegation are welcomed to the Wollotuka Institute.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky of Newcastle and Vice-Chancellor Professor Neil Quigley of Waikato sign a Memorandum of Understanding at The University of Waikato.
Members of the Waikato delegation are welcomed to the Wollotuka Institute.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky of Newcastle and Vice-Chancellor Professor Neil Quigley of Waikato sign a Memorandum of Understanding at The University of Waikato.

Research commonalities

The two tertiary providers have several research commonalities, particularly across the Indigenous engagement, social sciences and engineering disciplines.

Indigenous collaboration
Social
sciences
Engineering disciplines

2026 seed funding

We have jointly established a seed fund to strengthen collaborative research and professional ties between the two institutions that provides up to $15,000 AUD per project. Applications open from 19 January 2026 and close on 9 March 2026.

Seed funding Eligibility

Seed funding

The University of Newcastle and the University of Waikato invite all staff members to apply for our partnership seed fund. Applications close 9 March 2026 (midnight AEST) and following a panel review in March/April, successful applicants are notified on 18 May 2026.

  1. One Page Overview
  2. Guidelines For Applicants
  3. Application Form
  4. Budget Sheet
Delegates from The University of Newcastle visit The University of Waikato.
Image: Delegates from The University of Newcastle visit The University of Waikato.

Eligibility

Scientists in a lab

The seed fund is open to applications from all research, teaching and professional areas.

Proposals require lead investigators from both The University of Waikato and The University of Newcastle. Lead investigators must be staff on continuing appointments or fixed-term staff whose contract extends beyond the term of the funding.

Funding can be used to support the involvement/travel of PhD students and we particularly encourage proposals led by or including early career and/or indigenous staff.

Connecting Staff

Find a research counterpart at the University of Waikato HERE

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