Southern Cross University

Southern Cross University was established on 1 January 1994. The University's identity – the Southern Cross constellation – symbolises a guiding light for the curious and a beacon for independent thinking.

Over the decades that have followed, this founding vision has led to Southern Cross being known as one of Australia’s most innovative universities.

Rather than emulating institutions steeped in tradition, Southern Cross proudly ventured in a new direction, focused firmly on the future.

Allied health courses – from nursing to osteopathy and naturopathy to occupational therapy – reef restoration, regenerative agriculture, education and responsible business leadership are just a handful of fields demonstrating our commitment to a brighter future.

With more than 75,000 graduates and world-leading research, our impact is felt in our local communities and across the globe.

Transform your future

At Southern Cross University, we believe in your possibilities, your potential, and we offer a vibrant teaching, learning, research and cultural environment to help you achieve your goals. 

Relevance and resonance underpin everything we do. Our degree and research courses arise from today, but have their sights firmly on the future. We strive to create change that has a positive impact, from local to global.

A better way to learn

At Southern Cross University, we have transformed the way study is delivered. The Southern Cross Model delivers a deeper, immersive learning experience for students centred on greater interactivity and connection with real-world applications.

The shorter, more focused six-week unit structure gives students a greater sense of momentum and motivation as they achieve milestones quickly. Student success rates, overall grades and teacher satisfaction have all increased under the Southern Cross Model.

By joining Southern Cross, you are part of a better way to learn.

Our strategic plan

Southern Cross University is inspired by a powerful purpose. With values that guide our choices and a strategy which puts our students at the centre.

On behalf of the University Council, I invite you to explore and connect with our purpose, values and strategy to discover what they mean to you.

Our Purpose

Changing lives

We are proud of how education and research at Southern Cross can be life-changing. For the brightest young minds, the career-changers, the ambitious, those who are first-in-family at University, Indigenous scholars and internationals from across the globe, the impact can be profound.

Revolutionary learning

The Southern Cross Model is a revolution of the traditional University curriculum that delivers immersive learning experiences for superior student outcomes.

Research with real impact

From the sustainable production of food, improving the health and wellbeing of our community, or building resilience through education, we deliver genuine impact.

Our values

We strive for excellence

We apply the highest standards. We're always seeking to be at our best.

We are bold

We're ambitious. We're dynamic. We make bold decisions.

We care

We care for our people. We champion our communities. We respect our planet.

We own it

When we commit, we keep our word. When we fail, we learn.

We build trust through action

We tell the truth. We do what's right.