The history of Macquarie
Pioneering, radical and unconventional since 1964
Learn about our historyCelebrating our pioneering past, our thriving present and our ambitious future.
Established in 1964, Macquarie was founded to be different. To reflect the great social, cultural and political change of the time. To challenge convention. To break bold new ground.
We pioneered a student-first approach, fostered diversity and inclusion, pledged to serve and engage, committed to undertake interdisciplinary research, and championed a culture that encouraged collaboration between collectives of uniquely diverse individuals.
The world around us has changed significantly since our foundation. And we’ve certainly changed with it. But what hasn’t changed is the way we continue to honour the guiding principles that made us who we were.
We believe more than ever in the value of bringing together researchers from various disciplines to develop holistic solutions to local, national and global challenges.
By upholding a culture of collaboration, we’re able to fuel innovation that leads to real-world impact.
Our students are considered partners and co-creators in their learning experience, reflecting our commitment to engagement and serving the student-first approach.
Many of our degrees are co-designed with industry, enhancing cooperation and ensuring practical relevance.
For the community, our hospital and clinics uniquely integrate clinical care, learning and research, embodying our philosophy of interdisciplinary engagement. By integrating these elements, we deliver better health outcomes and contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge.
Recently, we proudly renamed our campus in recognition of the First Nations country on which the University is situated. This decision reflects our commitment to better acknowledge – and collaborate with – the traditional custodians of this land, the Wallumattagal people of the Dharug Nation.
Looking to the future, it’s our foundation principles – which have remained constant over 60 years – that will see us continue to deliver real-world impact in research, teaching and health in an ever-changing world.
It’s fitting that in our 60th year, our vibrant community is given the opportunity to celebrate our pioneering past, our thriving present, our ambitious future and the constant that unites us – what we call YOU to the power of us.