UNSW’s word-class research has been recognised in the Excellence in Research for Australia report (ERA), which evaluated research activity and quality in the country's 41 higher education institutions.

The ERA assessed the University’s performance in all broad fields of research as "at, above or well above" world standard.

The Australian Research Council analysis measured performance across eight broad discipline groups, broken down into 22 fields and 157 specific subject areas. Results are based on a range of indicators including publications and citations, expert review and international benchmarks.

UNSW ranked well above world standard, scoring the maximum five points, in the following fields: chemical sciences; medical and health sciences; commerce, management and tourism services; psychology and cognitive sciences; law and legal studies; studies in creative arts and writing; and history and archaeology.

UNSW also scored five points for research well above world standard in 25 specific subject areas. We were the only university to receive the top ranking in computer software, urban and regional planning, film, television and digital media, and policy and administration.

The results of the second comprehensive review of research at Australian universities found an overall improvement in research quality since the first report in 2010, with 10 institutions now performing above the world standard for research.

“We’re delighted to see that UNSW has improved in the number of areas where our research is rated well above world standard. This result highlights the breadth and depth of our research and reaffirms our position as a world-class university,” said Vice-Chancellor Professor Fred Hilmer.

“The results are a tribute of the quality and dedication of our researchers.”

Launching the report today, the Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills, Science and Research, Senator Chris Evans, said: “The ERA report shows Australia is on track to have 10 universities in the world’s top 100 by 2025 – a target set out in the Australia in the Asian Century White Paper.”

The ERA report is available at the ARC website.

Media contact: Judy Brookman, UNSW Director of Communications | 02 9385 3249 | 0421 061 251