Policy Addressing Poverty

At the University of Newcastle, we believe that education is a powerful force for breaking the cycle of poverty and creating opportunities for individuals, families, and communities. Our commitment to equity, social justice, and inclusion is embedded across all aspects of university life. We work with local regional and national governments on programmes and policies to address poverty. From access to support, teaching, research, and community partnerships, to entire centres like the Centre of Excellence for Equity in Higher Education.

Below is how we’re actively addressing poverty and striving for a fairer, more inclusive society:

1. Advancing Human Rights through Research and Dialogue

As part of our commitment to equity and social justice, the University of Newcastle supports critical dialogue on human rights, poverty, and inequality. In 2024, the Centre for Law and Social Justice hosted the inaugural Human Rights Symposium—a flagship event bringing together scholars, practitioners, students, and community members to examine contemporary human rights issues.

The Symposium explored the relationship between poverty and rights-based frameworks, focusing on issues such as housing insecurity, refugee and asylum seeker protections, and systemic discrimination. It provided a platform for sharing lived experiences, advancing research-informed policy debates, and highlighting the importance of legal empowerment in driving social change.

The event underscored the University’s role in fostering an inclusive society where law and policy serve the public good, and where marginalised voices are heard and valued in shaping the future.

2. Improving Access to Higher Education

We are proud to lead in expanding access to university for students from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds. Through targeted programs and partnerships, we are committed to removing barriers and supporting individuals from all walks of life to thrive at university.

Key Initiatives:

  • HEPPP (Higher Education Participation and Partnerships Program): We invest federal funding to improve access for students from low socio-economic (SES) backgrounds, regional and remote areas, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
  • Admissions Equity Targets: We aim to ensure at least 20% of our domestic students are from low SES backgrounds — a benchmark we consistently meet or exceed.
  • Pathway Programs: We offer enabling and alternative entry pathways for those who may not have had traditional access to tertiary education.

3. Financial Support for Students

We understand that financial hardship can be a major barrier to academic success. That’s why we offer a wide range of financial support services to help students stay focused on their education.

Available Support:

  • Scholarships and Grants: Thousands of scholarships are available each year, many designed specifically for students experiencing financial disadvantage.
  • Emergency Loans and Vouchers: We provide quick-access financial aid for students facing unexpected expenses or crises.
  • Affordable On-Campus Services: Including subsidised food, transport, and wellness services to reduce the cost of university life.

4. Tackling Food Insecurity

No student should have to choose between paying bills and eating. We partner with student bodies and local organisations to help ensure that students have access to nutritious food and essential items.

Programs Include:

  • Student Grocery Hub: In collaboration with the City of Newcastle and the University of Newcastle Students’ Association (UNSA), this initiative provides affordable groceries and sanitary products for students doing it tough.
  • Free and Subsidised Meals: Available during exam periods and throughout the semester to support student wellbeing.

5. Embedding Equity and Social Justice

Our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Policy guides our efforts to create a university community that actively champions fairness and opportunity.

Our Commitments:

  • Embedding EDI principles in teaching, research, leadership, and student life.
  • Supporting ongoing staff training on inclusive practices.
  • Partnering with communities to co-design policies that reflect lived experiences of poverty and disadvantage.

6. Aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals

As part of our broader sustainability strategy, we actively contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 1: No Poverty and Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.

Our contributions include:

  • Research that informs policy and social change.
  • Community engagement programs that support local resilience.
  • Advocating for systemic reforms in education and employment.

7. The Wollotuka Institute

The Wollotuka Institute is a cornerstone of our commitment to Indigenous education, empowerment, and cultural integrity. Guided by the principles of self-determination and respect, the Institute supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students through culturally grounded programs, academic support, and community connection. Wollotuka works in partnership with Indigenous communities to embed Indigenous knowledges and perspectives across teaching, research, and governance. Its work fosters an inclusive university environment where Indigenous identity is recognised, valued, and celebrated.

8. A Holistic, Inclusive Approach

We do not view poverty as simply a financial issue. It is linked to health, housing, education, discrimination, and community connection. That’s why our approach is holistic, working across sectors, listening to our students, and designing supports and institutional policies that reflect the realities of life.

Learn More or Get Support

Whether you’re a current or future student, a researcher, or a community member, we invite you to learn more about how the University of Newcastle is committed to addressing poverty and creating lasting change.

» Explore Student Support Services
» Read our Student Equity and Social Justice Plan (PDF)

UNESCO Chair in Equity, Social Justice and Higher Education

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Celebrating 40 years of the Wollotuka Institute 7:34

We have supported thousands of Indigenous graduates whilst championing an academically enriching and culturally affirming education, and forging a reputation as a leader in Indigenous education in Australia.

Empowering Indigenous futures for four decades

Born from passion and persistence in the 1980s, we began as a small support unit for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student. From these humble beginnings, we grew into a leading centre for Indigenous education and research. Over four decades, we have expanded our reach through programs, earning international recognition for our work.

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Education and Research Framework

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Employment Strategy and Action Plan

PDF, 752KB

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Minister's Roundtable on Refugee Education Migration Pathways

On Monday 5 June 2023, Associate Professor Amy Maguire represented the University of Newcastle, at the Minister's Roundtable on Transforming Lives through a Refugee Education Migration Pathway, in Melbourne.