One of THE’s most significant contributions is the Impact Rankings, which are the first global performance tables that assess universities against the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These rankings evaluate how higher education institutions contribute positively to society by addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and quality education. Through this framework, THE ranks universities based on their research, resource management, university-led sustainability initiatives, and their engagement with local and global communities.
The 2025 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings ranked 2526 universities.
Flinders has an overall global ranking of 21, is ranked 5th overall in Australia, and 1st in Australia for two UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
| SDG | Rank |
| SDG5 Gender Equality | 5th in the world (1st in Australia) |
| SDG10 Reduced Inequalities | 2nd in the world (1st in Australia) |
| SDG13 Climate Action | 10th in the world (5th in Australia) |
| SDG3 Good Health and Wellbeing | 11th in the world (3rd in Australia) |
| SDG17 Partnerships for the Goals | 47th in the world (equal 7th in Australia) |
| SDG7 Affordable and Clean Energy | 63rd in the world |
Flinders University has made impressive strides in global sustainability and social impact, as reflected in its recent rankings across several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Ranking System (Stars)
The Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS) is a globally recognized framework for colleges and universities to measure their sustainability performance. Developed by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE).
STARS ratings range from Bronze to Platinum, and the system encourages continuous improvement in sustainability practices while fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among higher education institutions worldwide.
Flinders University has achieved a world-first by earning a gold STARS rating for sustainability, making it a global leader in the field. This rating, awarded by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), recognizes Flinders' commitment across areas including governance, operations, research, and education.
Key initiatives include waste reduction, sustainable infrastructure, and innovative teaching that integrates sustainability. Flinders fosters collaboration between academics, students, and external partners to drive impactful sustainability research and education, showcasing the university's leadership and dedication to a sustainable future.
QS Sustainability Ranking
The QS World University Rankings, published annually by Quacquarelli Symonds, is one of the most widely recognized global assessments of higher education institutions. It evaluates universities based on a range of criteria, including academic reputation, employer reputation, faculty-to-student ratio, international faculty and student presence, and research impact through citations per faculty.
We were in the #221-240 band in 2023
Flinders University made a remarkable leap in global rankings, moving to #112th globaly in 2024. This significant rise reflects the university's dedication to research excellence, innovative teaching, and student success, reinforcing its reputation as a world leader in higher education. The improved ranking highlights Flinders' growing impact on the global stage, driven by its commitment to quality education and groundbreaking research initiatives.
Sturt Rd, Bedford Park
South Australia 5042
South Australia | Northern Territory
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