The University of Western Australia (UWA) has formally applied to the University Grants Commission (UGC) in India to establish multiple international branch campuses across the country, with a central hub proposed in the economic powerhouse city of Mumbai.
The move marks UWA’s first major international expansion, positioning India as the launchpad for its global footprint. Pending approvals from both the UGC and UWA’s own Senate, the university plans to set up branch campuses in the Indian states of Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu—two of the country’s most dynamic state economies.
UWA Chancellor Diane Smith-Gander met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis during a recent summit in Mumbai to discuss the initiative. The meetings highlight the high-level engagement driving the university’s ambitions in the region.
“India has long been a vital partner in UWA’s research efforts, particularly in agriculture, plant sciences and business,” Dr Smith-Gander said. “We are excited to transform those deep ties into a tangible, long-term presence.”
The proposed campuses will offer undergraduate and master’s degree programs, with a focus on STEM fields, business and the creative industries—areas aligned with both India’s economic transformation and Western Australia’s own vision to become a global hub of innovation and impact.
India, home to the world’s second-largest innovation ecosystem, has become a key destination for international universities following reforms under its National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which actively encourages foreign universities to establish campuses within its borders.
UWA’s choice of India reflects both strategic alignment and cultural affinity, bolstered by Western Australia’s strong existing presence in Mumbai and Chennai.
“We feel connected to India and wish to deepen that connection into a substantial educational and research footprint,” said Dr Smith-Gander. “We are committed to supporting India’s education ambitions and playing a meaningful role in shaping its future economy.”
If approved, the campuses would mark a major milestone for Australia’s higher education sector, reinforcing the growing trend of transnational education and deepening the Australia–India education partnership.
