Torrens University joins global Fourth Generation University alliance

7 June 2026 | Media Release

The 4^th Generation University (4GU) Community is a leading international alliance of more than 300 universities, industry partners and institutions committed to driving innovation, societal impact and regional economic development.

Operating under the auspices of Elsevier, the 4GU Community brings together organisations worldwide that are shaping the future of higher education through deep integration with industry, government and community partners to address real-world challenges and deliver measurable impact.

Torrens University’s inclusion in the alliance reinforces its focus on making sure that education and research meet the needs of industry and society.

Professor Aleks Subic, Vice-Chancellor and CEO of Torrens University Australia, who also serves as Chair of the global 4GU Community Board, said the membership reflects the University’s strategic commitment to next-generation higher education.

“The Fourth Generation University model represents a fundamental shift in how universities create value - moving beyond teaching and research to actively driving innovation ecosystems and delivering societal and economic impact,” Professor Subic said.

Joining this global community reinforces Torrens University’s commitment to embedding industry collaboration, innovation and real-world, strong employability outcomes at the core of everything we do.

The Fourth Generation University model builds on traditional roles of teaching and research, positioning universities as orchestrators of regional innovation ecosystems that create value through partnerships across industry, government and civil society.

“If universities are to create value, they must go beyond transmitting knowledge or driving economic value, but they become catalysts of socio-economic transformation,” said Professor Subic.

As a member of the 4GU Community, Torrens University will collaborate with leading global institutions to share best practice, develop new benchmarks for impact and strengthen its contribution to economic growth, workforce development and societal challenges.

Membership will also support the University’s continued focus on delivering industry-relevant education, strengthening partnerships and expanding opportunities for students to engage in real-world learning and innovation.

Further information about the 4th Generation University Community is available here.

Media contact: media.enquiries@torrens.edu.au