Western Sydney University, ranked #1 in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, becomes the 196th institution to join the programme.
Western Sydney University has officially signed up to the FISU Healthy Campus Programme, becoming the 196th institution worldwide, across 46 countries, to join this global initiative dedicated to promoting health and wellbeing in higher education. With this step, the university strengthens its long-standing commitment to student welfare, sustainable development, and community engagement.
The FISU Healthy Campus Programme is designed to integrate health promotion into all aspects of campus life, addressing sport and physical activity, mental and social health, nutrition, disease prevention, risk behavior, sustainability and social responsibility. Out of the 196 institutions that have signed up, 100 universities have already achieved certification. Australia is strongly represented within the programme, with 15 universities registered and five already certified. The addition of Western Sydney University further consolidates the country’s leadership in advancing health and wellbeing within the higher education sector.

“Western Sydney University’s success is built on creating an environment where students not only achieve academically but also feel a strong sense of belonging and wellbeing”, explained Professor Alphia Possamai-Inesedy, Western Sydney University’s Pro Vice-Chancellor Student Success. “Our participation in the FISU Healthy Campus Programme affirms this commitment, ensuring that health, inclusion, and sustainability are central to the student experience. When students are supported holistically, their potential to succeed and contribute meaningfully to society is maximised.”

Four consecutive years at the top
Western Sydney University holds a distinctive place in the global academic landscape. It is ranked number one in the world for the fourth consecutive year in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, which measure universities’ contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Unlike traditional rankings that focus primarily on research output and reputation, the THE Impact Rankings evaluate universities on their real-world impact. This top position highlights Western Sydney University’s commitment to social responsibility, sustainability, and transformative education.

The university itself is a dynamic and forward-looking institution, with a student population of more than 45,000 drawn from diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. Located in the Greater Western Sydney region, one of the most rapidly developing areas of Australia, the university plays a crucial role in driving social mobility, innovation, and regional development. Its academic programmes span a wide range of disciplines, and its research is recognised for tackling issues of global significance, from health and environment to technology and society.
A model for institutions worldwide
By joining the FISU Healthy Campus community, Western Sydney University not only reinforces its dedication to fostering a healthy, supportive, and sustainable environment for its students and staff but also serves as a model for institutions worldwide. Its leadership in both the THE Impact Rankings and presence in the Healthy Campus Programme reflects a holistic vision of higher education where academic excellence, wellbeing, and social impact go hand in hand.