University of Sydney Foundations

The University of Sydney is unique in having twenty five (25) internal foundations whose objects are to increase the resources of the University to assist the Senate and the Vice Chancellor in the promotion of research, education and scholarship across a wide range of fields through many of the University’s faculties. They secure gifts and grants or the provision of services or other non-financial contributions.

Setting up and running a foundation

Only the Senate can establish a foundation, within a governance framework established by the Foundations Policy 2011. The Policy requirs formal rules for a foundation to be based on one of two templates: Rules for Foundations without Divisions or Rules for Foundations with Divisions.

Each Foundation must comply with the University of Sydney Act, any delegated legislation (such as by-laws and rules of the University), University policies and procedures and all other applicable legal or policy requirements, including the Charitable Fundraising Act 1991 (NSW).

Getting involved

Each foundation has a council of up to 16 community and University councillors. The University Officer (Foundation) and the DVC & Provost are ex-officio University councillors. Foundations can also have a membership base.

Relationship with the University

As a part of the University, the foundations have access to the services of the University to assist them in their objects. Web-site creation and assistance, brand guidelines and templates, development resources and governance advice are all available. Councillors are acknowledged as affiliates of the University, are covered by the University’s directors and officers and public liability insurance and receive invitations to a wide range of University external programs and events.