The Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025 assess how well global universities are contributing to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With over 2,500 universities from 130 countries ranked this year, Australia stands out as a global leader in sustainability-focused education.
Top 20 Australian universities in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025, along with their overall scores:
📊 Top 20 Universities in Australia in THE Impact Rankings 2025
| Rank | University | Overall Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Western Sydney University | 98.7 |
| =4 | Griffith University | 97.7 |
| =4 | University of Tasmania | 97.7 |
| 11 | UNSW Sydney | 96.2 |
| =21 | Flinders University | 95.0 |
| =25 | Central Queensland University | 94.7 |
| =31 | University of Wollongong | 94.2 |
| 33 | University of Technology Sydney (UTS) | 94.1 |
| 39 | University of Newcastle | 93.4 |
| =50 | Macquarie University | 92.4 |
| =56 | RMIT University | 91.9 |
| 101–200 | Australian Catholic University | ~86.5 |
| 101–200 | Charles Sturt University | ~86.5 |
| 101–200 | James Cook University | ~86.5 |
| 101–200 | Queensland University of Technology | ~86.5 |
| 101–200 | Victoria University | ~86.5 |
| 201–300 | Charles Darwin University | ~81.7 |
| 201–300 | Federation University Australia | ~83.6 |
| 201–300 | University of Canberra | ~83.6 |
| 401–600 | Southern Cross University | ~76.1 |
📌 Notes:
- Ranges (e.g., 101–200) indicate placement bands used by THE when exact ranks are not disclosed.
- Approximate scores are inferred from band score ranges provided (e.g., 83.7–89.4).
FAQ:
📌 Why the Impact Rankings Matter
For employers: It signals graduates from values-driven institutions.
For students: They highlight universities committed to global challenges like climate change, poverty reduction and equal education.
For universities: A high SDG score boosts reputation, funding opportunities and partnerships.
🌿 What Are the THE Impact Rankings?
The THE Impact Rankings measure universities’ social and environmental impact based on their progress towards the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals include critical issues such as climate action, gender equality, quality education and sustainable cities.
Unlike traditional rankings, the Impact Rankings highlight institutions making a difference in the world—not just academically, but through their commitment to sustainability and equity.