50 Years of
Open Foundation
Celebrating 50 years of building pathways to brighter futures
The University of Newcastle's Open Foundation program is celebrating 50 years. That’s 50 years of transforming lives and opening doors to education for all.
Since 1974, Open Foundation has grown to become the largest enabling program of its kind in Australia and is recognised as the industry benchmark.
Cameron
Completed Open Foundation in 2013. Cameron went on to study a Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) (2019) and a Master of Environmental Management and Sustainability (2021) at the University of Newcastle.
Razia
Completed Open Foundation in 2019. Razia went on to study a Bachelor of Nursing at the University of Newcastle (2022).
Kim
Completed Open Foundation in 1995. Kim went on to study a Bachelor of Social Science at the University of Newcastle (2003).
Oliver
Completed Open Foundation in 2019. Oliver went on to study a Bachelor of Medical Radiation Science (Honours) (Diagnostic Radiography) at the University of Newcastle (2023).
Maddy
Completed Open Foundation in 2013. Maddy went on to study a Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management (2017), a Bachelor of Science (Honours) (2018) and is currently studying a PhD (Earth Sciences) at the University of Newcastle.
Watch the documentary
Celebrating 50 years
A legacy of impact
For five decades, Open Foundation has been a beacon of hope and opportunity for people of the Hunter and Central Coast regions. The first pathway program in Australia, Open Foundation has seen tens of thousands of students set out on their educational journeys, helping them to realise their dreams and achieve their goals.
Seb's story
Hear about Sebastian Larkin's journey from Open Foundation to Medicine.
Charlotte's story
Iglal's story 1:46
A proud part of our community
“The Open Foundation program has not only provided pathways to university but has also become an integral part of the local community. The program is committed to supporting the educational aspirations of individuals in our region, both now and into the future.”
Associate Professor Anna Bennett
Join the celebration
We invite to you to join us as we celebrate 50 years of empowering dreams and changing lives. Together, we can continue to create pathways to education, inspire success, and strengthen our communities.
50 Years Fifty Stories Central Coast Exhibition
The 50 stories that make up this exhibition, and accompanying commemorative book, capture just some of the transformative experiences our students have experienced through Open Foundation.
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Achieving Equitable Access to Education
The Hon. Fiona Nash, Regional Education Commissioner, will deliver a keynote address and then join our panel to discuss achieving equitable access to education.
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Get involved
Study with us
If you are looking for a pathway into university, considering a career change or simply chasing your passion, Open Foundation can make it happen.
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Make a gift
By supporting Open Foundation students, you become part of a legacy of transformation.
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Join our alumni community
Update your details to stay connected with our 174,000-strong global alumni community.
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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.