The newly established Adelaide University has achieved an impressive milestone by debuting in the top 100 of the QS World University Rankings.
The ranking places Adelaide University at No. 82 globally, amidst a competitive field of over 1,500 institutions.
This is particularly notable as the first of five key outcomes for a merged university, outlined at the 2022 state election, was the following.
“South Australia needs an internationally recognised top 100 university in order to ensure the highest quality research is funded in this state to drive economic growth. This would also lead to SA being attractive to the best and brightest students and staff.”
On the university’s early success, Premier Peter Malinauskas said, “This is an outstanding result for the new Adelaide University and a powerful endorsement of the vision to create a globally competitive university.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, Susan Close, said, “Adelaide University’s impressive debut is a credit to all those who have worked so hard to bring the new institution to life.”
“This ranking is not just about prestige — it’s about attracting world-class talent, boosting research investment, and delivering long-term economic benefits for our state.”
“With preparations for 2026 well underway, this ranking builds real momentum for what will be one of Australia’s leading universities.”
At a time when more than 70 percent of Australian universities have slipped in global rankings, Adelaide University has bucked the trend with a solid result.
The university’s strategic positioning is expected to see significant gains for the local economy. By 2034, the institution aims to add around $500 million annually to South Australia’s economy. It is also anticipated to increase student numbers to more than 70,000, which is about 13,000 more than the combined current enrolment numbers of the merged universities.
Preparations are now in motion for the 2026 academic year, which sees Adelaide University set to become the largest university in Australia in terms of domestic student population. Professor Nicola Phillips was recently appointed as the Vice Chancellor for a new era of leadership.
Malinauskas continued, “Global university rankings matter, which is why we made it a key metric in our university merger election policy. A higher ranking helps attract students, academics and research opportunities.”
“There was scepticism in some quarters as to whether the new university could achieve this goal so quickly, so it is pleasing to see such a strong debut.”
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