The University of Newcastle has recognised its next generation of change-makers, from student entrepreneurs tackling waste and sustainability, as well as companies making a transformative impact on employment in the region.

Celebrating the achievements of seven students, and invaluable staff and industry partners, the Employability Excellence awards highlight the meaningful impact of Career-ready Placements, extracurriculars and innovative teaching.

University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Alex Zelinsky, says the awards reflect the University’s commitment to producing life-ready graduates who can make an impact from day one.

“These students are already at the forefront of innovation and creativity in their respective fields. Our University is proud to offer a wide range of opportunities that enable students to develop their employability skills and gain professional experience, such as Career-Ready Placements,” Professor Zelinsky said.

The awards also acknowledge the crucial role of staff and employers in creating valuable placement opportunities. Eight organisations have been inducted into the University’s Hall of Fame for their ongoing support and collaboration.

Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Belinda Tynan, said industry partners play an essential role in shaping future-ready graduates.
“Our programs are designed in partnership with employers to ensure our graduates have the skills and mindset to thrive in an evolving workforce,” Professor Tynan said.
The University’s strong focus on employability will continue into 2026, with more than 14,000 students completing an industry placement in the past 12 months.

Among those recognised, GHD received the Employer Excellence in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Award and was inducted into the University’s Industry Hall of Fame. GHD were acknowledged for its outstanding commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in the workplace, and for its lasting contributions to the professional development of University of Newcastle students.

GHD was the first firm nationally to host CareerTrackers interns, providing paid, multi-year internships for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in the private sector. The company is also a platinum sponsor of the University’s Women in Engineering Society (NUWIE), attending events and mentoring students.

“Welcoming students from diverse backgrounds goes beyond doing what’s right to building a stronger, more vibrant workplace. Our motivation comes from seeing the positive impact that equity and inclusion have on our people, our projects, and the communities we serve,” Simon Page, Northern NSW General Manager, GHD said.

More than 500 University of Newcastle alumni have been employed by GHD, with 60% of the Newcastle Business Group Leaders cohort comprising University graduates, highlighting the company’s long-term investment in local talent.

“Our decades-long partnership with the University of Newcastle has been nothing short of inspiring. This collaboration has strengthened our organisation and played a key role in building a future-ready workforce for our region.”

See the full list of winners and find out more about the awards here (https://www.newcastle.edu.au/current-students/careers/employability-excellence-awards).