Looking Ahead
Our vision is to be a world-leading university for our regions. Our Looking Ahead Strategic Plan 2020-2025 is our blueprint to achieving that vision.
When we look ahead, we are motivated by the opportunities we see. We are driven by the challenges we need to solve. And we are stirred by the future we can imagine.
A future where Australia's First Peoples are empowered and enjoy true equality. A future where anyone who has the drive and talent to succeed is given the opportunity to study. A future where our research benefits our local communities as well as our fellow global citizens. A future where our environment is safeguarded and at the heart of all our big decisions.
The Looking Ahead Speaker Series allows our communities to be part of our journey toward this future. Free keynote lectures and panel discussions will open the doors to the great thinking and innovation that goes on at our university – important work that is locally and globally relevant.
Upcoming event topics are listed below.
Upcoming events
There are currently no upcoming events.
Past events
Event • 6 Dec 2023 from 1:00pm - 3:30pm
In conversation with Professor the Honourable Gareth Evans AC KC
The University of Newcastle’s Asia Pacific Research Centre, together with the Newcastle Institute, proudly invite you to attend a special public lecture and conversation with Professor the Honourable Gareth Evans AC KC.
Event • 3 Dec 2023 from 4:00pm - 5:15pm
Freedom, Only Freedom: Behrouz Boochani
Award-winning Kurdish-Iranian journalist, writer, filmmaker, and human rights activist Behrouz Boochani will speak about his most recent book Freedom, Only Freedom at this special event.
Event • 16 Aug 2023 from 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Celebrating National Science Week
Join us to celebrate National Science week with an exploration of science and innovation at our upcoming Looking Ahead Speaker Series!
Event • 27 Jun 2023 at 6:30pm
Women in Sport
In this thought-provoking session, we will explore the extraordinary achievements, challenges, and societal impact of women who have defied boundaries and shattered glass ceilings in the world of sport.
Event • 16 May 2023 at 6:30pm
Indigenous Voice to Parliament
Working closely with the University’s Indigenous Strategy and Leadership office we have identified a panel of indigenous leaders from within the university, to discuss the role the university plays in sharing information about the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum.
Event • 4 Apr 2023 from 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Professor Penny Jane Burke UNESCO Chair
Share an evening with Professor Penny Jane Burke as she examines how higher education can be mobilised for social transformation. In her first in-depth public presentation as UNESCO Chair Penny Jane Burke will discuss the program of work to illustrate
Event • 14 Feb 2023 at 5:30pm
Future of Housing on the Central Coast
Join us for an interesting discussion on the future of housing on the Central Coast.
Event • 22 Nov 2022 from 1:00pm - 3:30pm
In conversation with the Hon. Kevin Rudd AC
The University of Newcastle’s Asia Pacific Research Centre, together with the Newcastle Institute, proudly invite you to attend a special public lecture and conversation with: The Honourable Kevin Rudd AC, 26th Prime Minister of Australia.
Event • 26 Jul 2022 at 5:30pm
The Changing Tide of Human Populations lecture and book launch
Join internationally-renowned biologist Distinguished Laureate Professor John Aitken as he discusses the the universal decline in human fertility, the factors causing this, and social, political, environmental and lifestyle changes needed to bring this situation under control.
Event • 27 Nov 2021 from 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Dr Karl's National Science Week
Join us for a live ‘in person’ National Science Week celebration with Dr Karl on Saturday 27 November to explore the wonderful world of science as well as answer any of your curly science questions – it promises to be
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.