Overview
Equity and wellbeing are critical to the future of sustainable universities.
Join leading experts for the Equity and Wellbeing: Keys to Sustainable Universities panel, a satellite event of the Universities Australia 2025 Solutions Summit and hosted by HEDx.
Event information
Bradman Theatrette, National Convention and Exhibition Centre, Canberra
This event is part of the Universities Australia Solutions Summit 2025 and is presented by HEDx, Welcoming Universities and Universities Enable. This is a free event.
This panel will address the urgent challenges facing Australian universities—financial strain, high attrition, and inequitable campus culture. By prioritising equity and wellbeing, the discussion will explore practical solutions vital to universities’ financial viability, cultural relevance, and social licence.
Sarah Bendall, National Student Ombudsman
Sarah Bendall will address critical campus safety issues, including the rise in sexual assaults and racial discrimination, emphasising the importance of effective institutional responses to safeguard student welfare.
Professor George Williams AO, Vice-Chancellor, Western Sydney University
George Williams will explore how universities can serve as transformative institutions by embedding themselves in their communities and fostering holistic development for students and staff.
Professor Paul Harpur OAM, The University of Queensland
Paul Harpur will uncover the systemic and physical barriers that exclude people with disabilities from fully participating in university life, highlighting the urgent need for greater accessibility in higher education.
Facilitators:
Dr Martin Betts, CEO, HEDx and Cate Gilpin, Coordinator, Welcoming Universities
Facilitators Martin Betts and Cate Gilpin will steer the conversation toward practical, actionable solutions, ensuring the discussion moves beyond identifying challenges to outlining how universities can achieve lasting, positive transformation.