All six participating* IRU members remain in the Times Higher Education ranking of the world’s best 100 universities under 50 years old.

“Our inclusion in these rankings once again demonstrates the exceptional research and teaching done across the IRU,” said La Trobe University Vice-Chancellor and IRU Chair Professor John Dewar.

“We especially congratulate The University of Newcastle, now named the leading Australian university in this ranking as they approach the 50th anniversary of their foundation.”

In addition to the six IRU members, another eight Australian institutions featured in the ranking. A total of fourteen ranked universities places Australia is equal first overall with the United Kingdom in this list.

“That so many of Australia’s younger universities are held in such high international esteem demonstrates the success of Australia’s demand driven student funding system and its competitive research funding system which rewards the best people and ideas” Professor Dewar said.

“Strong performances in rankings like these give the Australian people confidence in Australia’s universities and underpin our ability to attract students and staff, both within Australia and overseas.

“International competition for recognition has never been higher. We must ensure that Australia’s system supporting a wide range of universities across Australia is enhanced to continue our tradition of success,” Professor Dewar concluded.

* IRU member James Cook University does not participate in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings.