In a landmark move, The University of Western Australia (UWA) is set to become the first Australian Group of Eight (Go8) university to establish a physical campus in India, with Mumbai chosen as its primary hub.
The announcement was made during the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) at the Jio World Centre in Mumbai, where UWA Chancellor Diane Smith-Gander held closed-door talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
“Grateful to Hon PM Narendra Modi Ji for the New Education Policy, which has provided billions with the opportunity to pursue their aspirations now. This is a truly momentous occasion for Maharashtra, as we welcome world‑class universities to Mumbai’s doorstep.”
UWA Vice-Chancellor Professor Amit Chakma confirmed the announcement on LinkedIn, stating:
“The University of Western Australia goes global! A new chapter in our century-long illustrious journey! It is fitting that the flagship university of Australia’s Indian Ocean capital city would set up a campus in India! Onwards and upwards!”
Chancellor Smith-Gander highlighted the university’s longstanding collaboration with India in sectors such as agriculture, plant sciences, and business.
“This initiative builds on our deep ties with India and demonstrates our commitment to shaping global education that reflects the ambitions of both nations.”
Chief Minister Fadnavis welcomed the move, adding:
“Mumbai continues to attract the brightest minds from across the country, and Navi Mumbai is fast emerging as a leading educational and innovation hub. We are proud to welcome UWA to Maharashtra as it builds on our strong ties with the Government of Western Australia.”
Ranked among the world’s top 100 universities and founded in 1911, UWA has submitted a proposal to India’s University Grants Commission (UGC) to establish multiple campuses in the country. While Mumbai will serve as the primary location, additional campuses are under consideration in Tamil Nadu, pending UGC and UWA Senate approvals.
UWA aims to tap into India’s status as the second-largest innovation ecosystem globally by offering a wide array of undergraduate and master’s programs across STEM, Business, and Creative Industries—including courses from the prestigious UWA Conservatorium of Music.
The new initiative aligns with India’s National Education Policy 2020, which encourages international collaboration in higher education. Students enrolled at UWA India will also have the option to transfer to UWA’s Crawley campus in Perth, promoting global academic exchange and career mobility.
With India’s higher education sector projected to grow by 60% over the next decade, UWA’s expansion is poised to meet rising demand for world-class, flexible education. The university’s entry into India signals a broader trend of elite global institutions recognising the country’s academic potential and deepening cross-border partnerships.
Support our Journalism
No-nonsense journalism. No paywalls. Whether you’re in Australia, the UK, Canada, the USA, or India, you can support The Australia Today by taking a paid subscription via Patreon or donating via PayPal — and help keep honest, fearless journalism alive.
