Taking Quantum Leaps to transform university

Swinburne University of Technology has today unveiled its new strategy, Ad Astra_2030, setting a bold course for the future of education, research and innovation in Australia and beyond.

Building on the momentum of its sector-leading Horizon 2025 agenda, Ad Astra_2030 is Swinburne’s most ambitious strategy yet, to bring people and technology together to build a better world.

“Our four Quantum Leaps will cement Swinburne as the prototype of a new and different university, one that embraces the chance to lead with conviction,” said Professor Pascale Quester, Vice-Chancellor and President of Swinburne University of Technology. 

“Ad Astra_2030 encapsulates our drive to go beyond, pushing new boundaries to create more impact and empowering people to thrive in a tech-rich future.” 

Shaped by an extensive co-creation process, more than 1,700 Swinburne staff have contributed to Ad Astra_2030. Students, alumni, partners and industry were also closely involved in its creation. 

The strategy is anchored by four bold Quantum Leaps:

1. Tailored and innovative pathways to success for all: As a multisector university offering vocational education and higher education, as well as short courses and research and innovation capabilities, we can craft individual and often unconventional pathways to success for those who engage with us, at any time in an individual’s or organisation’s journey.
2. Leading and leveraging technology for purpose: Swinburne will become the prototype of a fully tech-infused university, immersing learners in technology-rich curricula and championing the responsible uptake of emerging technologies.
3. Co-creating industries of the future: Every Swinburne learner will engage in real-world, interdisciplinary projects co-created with industry, while the university leads the charge in shaping new industry ecosystems and commercialising research for real-world impact.
4. The world is our campus: Swinburne seeks a meaningful presence and recognition in every region of the world, connecting communities, industries, and institutions to solve urgent global challenges and foster international collaboration. 

The four Quantum Leaps have been deliberately designed to sit across the whole university, building on our One Swinburne culture.

Professor Quester said Ad Astra_2030 is as bold as it is ambitious, drawing on the best of Swinburne to serve the collective good and contribute to the prosperity of Australia, and our world.

“Journey with us as we slingshot beyond the moon and travel towards the stars,” Professor Quester said.

To read the full strategy, head to the Astra_2030 digital experience.