Strategic Directions 2006-2010

Our purpose

The University of today is an integral part of a progressive and open society. We contribute to and support progress and freedom and in turn our work is enabled by those qualities in society. This must remain true however the University evolves in the future.

The core purpose of the University of Sydney is our fundamental moral commitment to intellectual discovery and development, responsible social commentary and the promotion of cultural and economic well being. To this end, we combine humane aspirations with a practical business sense to serve the needs of the community while preserving academic freedom. What we choose to research and teach is ultimately determined by that purpose.

Intellectual discovery may be uncomfortable and raise challenges as well as provide solutions. Our social commentary may be a critique of existing practice - constructive but confronting. We seek sustainable economic development, and this means our contributions may not entirely align with the short-term goals of some as we strive to balance divergent views and timeframes for an optimal institutional outcome.

We must seek a balance between fostering an environment in which each individual is encouraged to resolve these issues personally and one in which there develops a collective institutional commitment to the University's core purpose. The University must not be afraid to champion excellence, yet we must provide opportunity for all students. In defining our aims, we must live within our means yet focus on absolute quality. Our purpose is to challenge and develop our students as influential future citizens yet also to equip them for immediate useful employment. Our spirit must be romantic and humanitarian, yet our actions must be practical.

Within the context of our defined purpose, we should be determined to run the business operations of the University as efficiently as possible. To broaden the University's resource base, we will attract external funding, but internal savings made through efficiencies in our methods of operation, including reform of academic processes, will be just as effective.

We need to take risks, invest in capital development initiatives, and engender a sense of pride in belonging. Whether or not they are involved in the core activities of research and teaching, it is important that all staff know they are making a genuine and valued contribution to the core purpose of the institution.

Established over 150 years ago as the first university in Australia, the University of Sydney was founded, in the words of its original charter, "to promote liberal education and useful knowledge...for the benefit of all". The University of Sydney respects and honours the original owners of the land of the original Camperdown campus, the Cadigal people of the Eora Nation, who for tens of thousands of years transmitted knowledge to generations of indigenous Australians. The University today is the proud inheritor of those traditions.

Professor Gavin Brown
Vice-Chancellor and Principal