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 also with a Livestream option.

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 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.

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.

Hashini Panditharatne, Director of the University Racism Study, Australian Human Rights Commission

Hashini is leading the Race Discrimination Commissioner’s research and reporting into racism in Australian universities. This project is an initiative of the Australian Human Rights Commission.

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.