Sustainability at Southern Cross

Universities have a disproportionately significant impact on our world. With such global impact comes profound global responsibility to equip students, staff and partners to become agents of positive change in their respective fields.

Southern Cross University takes this responsibility seriously. Our values mean that we strive for excellence in sustainability, as in all things. We are ambitious and bold in our decisions and actions. We care for people, our communities and our world. And so, with these things in mind, we seek to become a world leader in sustainable practices, shape global discourse, and contribute to a more equitable and resilient society.

Sustainability encompasses not only environmental, ecological and climate considerations but also their interaction with social outcomes, and with institutional governance.

In 2023 the University released its interim Sustainability Strategy, which sets out not only our approach to action on climate and the environment, but which also commits us to the development of a comprehensive Sustainability Strategy. This work will be undertaken in collaboration with students, staff, alumni, academic and industry partners, and the local community. Our Sustainability Strategy will encompass all aspects of the University’s operations, academic programs, and external engagement, and will set out initiatives across the environmental, social and governance pillars that form part of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

It will also function as a roadmap to guide our sustainability initiatives, setting ambitious targets, outlining actions necessary to achieve them, and providing a transparent framework of accountability, monitoring and reporting.

Whether you are a student, staff member, prospective student, or external partner, Southern Cross University invites you to join us on this exciting journey as we transform tomorrow.

Our commitments:

• Achieve net zero emissions from Scope 1 and 2 sources by 2035

• Become a zero-waste institution

• Source 100% of energy from renewable sources

• Achieve Green Star ratings for new buildings and major renovations where possible

• Develop a comprehensive sustainability strategy