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SCU

Southern Cross University

Ranked & featured
sdgs/sdg overall
Sustainability Impact Rated
East Lismore, Australia
551–600th in World University Rankings 2027
  • About
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  • Impact Ratings
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About Southern Cross University

Basic information and contact details for Southern Cross University

Southern Cross University is ranked in the top 100 young universities globally (THE 2024) and is one of Australia’s most innovative universities. Our identity—the Southern Cross constellation—symbolises a guiding light for the curious and shines through everything we do. Unbounded by convention, we’ve forged our own path to excellence through academic rigor and a commitment to shape the future. Your tomorrow is our purpose.

With a vibrant community of over 80,000 graduates and world-class research, we tackle both local and global challenges with new and exciting solutions. Our programs immerse students in cutting-edge practice, whether reimagining the way sustainability is taught in schools, shaping regenerative agriculture practices for more resilient farms, or developing the next generation of nurses and allied health professionals. Over 90% of our graduates secure employment within four months and they earn above the national median graduate salary (QILT 2019-2022). 

We are dedicated to advancing research with real-world impact. Our research has significantly contributed to an International Charter for ethical research involving children. We have identified new high-value coffee and black rice crops to support diversity and economic certainty in feeding growing populations. We are reducing the carbon footprint of cannabis, the most carbon-intensive medical product on the planet. We are incorporating traditional knowledge sources into pre-clinical research, unearthing novel treatments that are safer and more readily available. We are developing scalable models for true circular economies in manufacturing, agriculture and food production.

We help today’s visionaries become tomorrow’s leaders. Join us in transforming tomorrow.

Rankings

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Sustainability Impact Ratings

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Key Student Statistics

A breakdown of student statistics at Southern Cross University

gender ratio
Student gender ratio
70 F : 30 M (1)
globe fill
International student percentage
22% (1)
student per staff
Students per staff
40.9 (1)
student
Student total
8668 (1)

Based on data collected for the (1) World University Rankings 2027

Jobs at Southern Cross University

Open positions for academics and staff at Southern Cross University

See all

Senior Lecturer in Occupational Therapy

SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY

Southern Cross University

Australia, Gold Coast

institution

Southern Cross University

Australia, Gold Coast


Deliver Occupational Therapy programs at Southern Cross University Make an impact through research, scholarship and industry engagement Build your career at our vibrant beachside Gold Coast Campus Be Bold. Belong. Be More. At Southern Cross University, we do things differently, and so can you. A career with us is more than you might expect. Yes, it’s about the heart, connectedness and community you’d hope for in a regional university. But there’s also so much more. Our game changing Southern Cross Model brings a deeper, focused learning experience and our research is deeply connected to our regions, making a difference on a global scale. This is your chance to help us build something new and meaningful for our students, our communities and your career. To drive change, make a real impact, and thrive in a place as unique as you. You can be good anywhere. Here, you can be great. Your opportunity Southern Cross University’s Faculty of Health is seeking an experienced Senior Lecturer in Occupational Therapy to contribute to our new Master of Occupational Therapy program. You’ll bring your academic and clinical expertise to design contemporary teaching, strengthen research and scholarship, and prepare graduates for meaningful careers in the profession. You will join an established team of occupational therapy academics and may also teach within our Bachelor program. Depending on experience, interests and operational requirements, there may also be an opportunity to undertake leadership responsibilities through the role of Course Coordinator for the Master of Occupational Therapy. You will make an impact by: Providing academic leadership in student-centred teaching, curriculum development and innovative learning across face-to-face, blended and online environments. Advancing research and scholarship through high-quality publications, research collaborations, grant activity and scholarship of teaching. Strengthening industry and professional partnerships to enhance student learning, and contribute to the Faculty’s profile. Contributing to academic leadership and course development, with the potential opportunity to take on Course Coordinator responsibilities. What you will bring You’re an experienced occupational therapy academic who combines clinical expertise with a passion for teaching, research and advancing the profession. You enjoy collaborating with colleagues and industry partners to create contemporary learning experiences that prepare graduates for practice. To succeed in this role, you will also need: A PhD qualification, a minimum of five years’ academic and clinical experience, and registration or eligibility for registration as an Occupational Therapist with Ahpra with no conditions that would limit the capacity to fulfil the requirements of the position. Demonstrated experience teaching practical and theoretical Occupational Therapy topics using contemporary educational technologies across face-to-face, blended and online environments. Proven experience in curriculum design and evaluation, alongside a track record of research and scholarship demonstrated through publications and research grant activity. Highly developed interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with colleagues and research partners, engage with diverse stakeholders, and demonstrate a commitment to cultural diversity, equity and workplace health and safety. Why Southern Cross University SCU is proudly a regional university, young, small and vibrant. That means you’ll find more exposure, opportunity and ownership - to grow, achieve and build a career that means more. And you’ll do it alongside passionate people and leaders who go the extra mile to help you succeed. A career with us is about more than just work. It’s about place, community and the life you want to live. With three main campuses at the Gold Coast, Coffs Harbour and the Northern Rivers region of NSW, we’re integral to all these wonderful communities. Find your place and be more in this beautiful part of the world. Your opportunity is: Full-time, continuing (permanent) Located at Gold Coast, QLD 4225. Relocation assistance is available, making it easier to join our regional communities. ACAD Level C. The base salary ranges from $139,568 - $160,473 per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation. The total remuneration package is up to $187,753. You will enjoy a range of perks designed to support your wellbeing, growth and work-life balance. For more information on our benefits and what it’s like to work at SCU, visit Why work at Southern Cross University? Be more with Southern Cross University today Southern Cross University values potential as much as experience. If you do not meet all the listed requirements but are excited about the role and confident you can contribute, we encourage you to apply or reach out for more information. Name: Dr Michelle Bissett, Chair of Discipline (Allied Health & Community Welfare) Phone: 0407 388 215 Email: michelle.bissett@scu.edu.au Applications close 11.30pm AEDT 17 November 2026 Eligible applicants must have Australian or New Zealand citizenship, Australian permanent residency or current working rights in Australia for the entire duration of the appointment. Employer visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Applicants must apply online and attach a CV and cover letter. The cover letter must clearly address each selection criterion in the position description. Information to support you prepare your application is available on our website. Southern Cross University celebrates the rich diversity of our regions and international community. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that welcomes and values people of all backgrounds. We encourage applications from people of all genders, ethnicities, ages, languages, sexual orientations, and people with disabilities. We are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process to ensure every candidate can fully participate. For any support through the recruitment process, reach out to jobs@scu.edu.au. #LI-AM1 #GC Position description How to apply: Start your application by clicking the "begin" button. Login to an existing account or reset your password Preview Application Form By choosing to continue, you agree to the Privacy Notice. Show Privacy Notice

Salary

$139,568 - $160,473 per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation

Posted

22 Oct 2026

Research Fellow – Climate Adaptation, Grief and Loss

SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY

Southern Cross University

Australia, Lismore

institution

Southern Cross University

Australia, Lismore


Conduct international research across Australia, South Africa and the UK Explore how grief, loss and place shape climate adaptation Work with Indigenous communities through participatory & arts-based research Be Bold. Belong. Be More. At Southern Cross University, we do things differently, and so can you. A career with us is more than you might expect. Yes, it’s about the heart, connectedness and community you’d hope for in a regional university. But there’s also so much more. Our game changing Southern Cross Model brings a deeper, focused learning experience and our research is deeply connected to our regions, making a difference on a global scale. This is your chance to help us build something new and meaningful for our students, our communities and your career. To drive change, make a real impact, and thrive in a place as unique as you. You can be good anywhere. Here, you can be great. Your opportunity As our Research Fellow within the Gnibi College of Indigenous Australian Peoples you will contribute to REVIVE – Regaining the liveability of place: emancipatory futures under climate risk, an international research project exploring how communities navigate climate-related loss and grief to shape more liveable futures. Based at our Lismore campus, you will work with researchers at Southern Cross University and King’s College London to design and deliver participatory, co-designed and arts-based research across three case study locations: Lismore, Australia; Durban, South Africa; and Norfolk, UK. Bringing together climate change adaptation, social and psychological perspectives, and community knowledge, you will generate high-quality research and accessible outputs that contribute to meaningful outcomes for participating communities. You will make an impact by: Designing defined components of the REVIVE research program and delivering participatory, co-designed and arts-based research across the three international case study locations. Building respectful, reciprocal relationships with communities and applying Indigenous and culturally safe, ethical and context-appropriate research methodologies. Coordinating research activities, ethics and governance approvals, and project milestones in collaboration with the REVIVE research team. What you will bring You are an independent and collaborative researcher who can work thoughtfully with communities experiencing climate-related disruption, grief and loss. You bring sound research judgement, strong organisational skills and are committed to culturally safe research practice, adapting your approach to different community, cultural and international contexts. To succeed in this role, you will also need: A PhD in social science, human geography, Indigenous studies or a relevant cognate discipline, or evidence that the PhD has been submitted and is under examination Demonstrated ability to independently design, undertake and deliver high-quality research at postdoctoral level, including managing research activities and meeting agreed milestones Strong knowledge of social and psychological understandings of grief, loss, mental health or wellbeing, and the capacity to engage respectfully with Indigenous understandings of wellbeing, relationality, place and Country Ability to conduct extended periods of fieldwork in overseas settings (UK and South Africa) Why Southern Cross University SCU is proudly a regional university, young, small and vibrant. That means you’ll find more exposure, opportunity and ownership - to grow, achieve and build a career that means more. And you’ll do it alongside passionate people and leaders who go the extra mile to help you succeed. A career with us is about more than just work. It’s about place, community and the life you want to live. With three main campuses at the Gold Coast, Coffs Harbour and the Northern Rivers region of NSW, we’re integral to all these wonderful communities. Find your place and be more in this beautiful part of the world. Your opportunity is: Full-time, fixed term (18 months) Base location at Lismore, NSW 2480, with support from the Indigenous Research Academic at Southern Cross University’s Gnibi College of Indigenous Australian Peoples ACAD Level B. The base salary ranges from $117,916 - $139,454 per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation. The total remuneration package is up to $163,161. You will enjoy a range of perks designed to support your wellbeing, growth and work-life balance. For more information on our benefits and what it’s like to work at SCU, visit Why work at Southern Cross University? Be more with Southern Cross University today Southern Cross University values potential as much as experience. If you do not meet all the listed requirements but are excited about the role and confident you can contribute, we encourage you to apply or reach out for more information. Name: Dr Kylie Day, Senior Lecturer Phone: 02 66203245 Email: kylie.day@scu.edu.au Applications close 11.30pm AEDT 16 November 2026 Applications will be reviewed as they are received and may be invited to interview prior to the position close date. For this reason, we recommend you register your interest by submitting your application as soon as possible. Eligible applicants must have Australian or New Zealand citizenship, Australian permanent residency or current working rights in Australia for the entire duration of the appointment. Employer visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Applicants must apply online and attach a CV and cover letter. The cover letter must clearly address each selection criterion in the position description. Information to support you to prepare your application is available on our website. Southern Cross University celebrates the rich diversity of our regions and international community. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that welcomes and values people of all backgrounds. We encourage applications from people of all genders, ethnicities, ages, languages, sexual orientations, and people with disabilities. We are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process to ensure every candidate can fully participate. For any support through the recruitment process, reach out to jobs@scu.edu.au. #LI-AM1 #All Position description How to apply: Start your application by clicking the "begin" button. Login to an existing account or reset your password Preview Application Form By choosing to continue, you agree to the Privacy Notice. Show Privacy Notice

Salary

$117,916 - $139,454 per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation

Posted

27 Oct 2026

Lecturer / Senior Lecturer in Building Construction Practice

SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY

Southern Cross University

Australia, Gold Coast

institution

Southern Cross University

Australia, Gold Coast


Bring building construction management and quantity surveying expertise to teaching Shape industry-connected learning through real world building construction experience Contribute to research, curriculum development and industry partnerships Be Bold. Belong. Be More. At Southern Cross University, we do things differently, and so can you. A career with us is more than you might expect. Yes, it’s about the heart, connectedness and community you’d hope for in a regional university. But there’s also so much more. Our game changing Southern Cross Model brings a deeper, focused learning experience and our research is deeply connected to our regions, making a difference on a global scale. This is your chance to help us build something new and meaningful for our students, our communities and your career. To drive change, make a real impact, and thrive in a place as unique as you. You can be good anywhere. Here, you can be great. Your opportunity Bring your industry experience into the classroom and help shape the next generation of building and building construction professionals at Southern Cross University. We are seeking a Lecturer or Senior Lecturer in Building Construction Practice with strong expertise in building construction management, building practice and project costing. A background in quantity surveying would be particularly valuable as we continue to strengthen our teaching capability and industry connections. This is a teaching-focused academic opportunity for someone who understands the realities of the Australian building construction industry, from estimating and costing projects to managing contracts, building construction processes and delivery across low- and high-rise developments. You'll play an important role in a collaborative discipline team, delivering engaging undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, developing industry-relevant curriculum and bringing real project experience into student learning. You'll also contribute to research, scholarship and professional engagement, helping strengthen the discipline's academic and industry profile. You will make an impact by: Delivering industry-informed teaching in building construction management and practice Teaching project costing, quantity surveying and building law principles Developing practical curriculum informed by Australian industry standards Contributing to research, scholarship and HDR student supervision Strengthening industry partnerships and professional body engagement What you will bring You'll combine academic expertise with practical experience in the Australian building and building construction industry, ideally in quantity surveying, building construction management or project costing. You'll understand the realities of building construction projects and know how to bring that experience into engaging, industry-relevant teaching. You'll also bring a commitment to research and scholarship, strong professional networks and active engagement with industry bodies. You'll thrive in a collaborative discipline team where your expertise and industry connections can make a meaningful difference. To succeed in this role, you will also need: Relevant building or building construction qualifications, including a PhD Strong Australian industry experience in building construction or quantity surveying Demonstrated teaching capability and contemporary curriculum development A research or scholarship record appropriate to the academic level Active engagement with relevant building construction industry professional bodies Membership of the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (AIQS), Australian Institute of Building (AIB), or other relevant professional bodies will be highly regarded. Knowledge of the National Construction Code, Australian Standards and industry accreditation requirements will also be advantageous.  Why Southern Cross University SCU is proudly a regional university, young, small and vibrant. That means you’ll find more exposure, opportunity and ownership - to grow, achieve and build a career that means more. And you’ll do it alongside passionate people and leaders who go the extra mile to help you succeed. A career with us is about more than just work. It’s about place, community and the life you want to live. With three main campuses at the Gold Coast, Coffs Harbour and the Northern Rivers region of NSW, we’re integral to all these wonderful communities. Find your place and be more in this beautiful part of the world. Your opportunity is: Full-time, continuing (permanent) Located at Gold Coast, QLD 4225. Relocation assistance is available, making it easier to join our regional communities. Academic Level B: $114,482 - $135,392 per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation. The total remuneration package is up to $158,408. Academic Level C: $139,568 - $160,473 per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation. The total remuneration package is up to $187,753. You will enjoy a range of perks designed to support your wellbeing, growth and work-life balance. For more information on our benefits and what it’s like to work at SCU, visit Why work at Southern Cross University? Be more with Southern Cross University today Southern Cross University values potential as much as experience. If you do not meet all the listed requirements but are excited about the role and confident you can contribute, we encourage you to apply or reach out for more information. Name: Professor Charles Lemckert, Professor - Faculty of Science and Engineering Phone: 02 6626 9387 Email: charles.lemckert@scu.edu.au Applications close 11.30pm AEST 19 November 2026. Eligible applicants must have Australian or New Zealand citizenship, Australian permanent residency or current working rights in Australia for the entire duration of the appointment. Employer visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Applicants must apply online and attach a CV and cover letter. The cover letter must clearly address each selection criterion in the position description. Information to support you prepare your application is available on our website. Southern Cross University celebrates the rich diversity of our regions and international community. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that welcomes and values people of all backgrounds. We encourage applications from people of all genders, ethnicities, ages, languages, sexual orientations, and people with disabilities. We are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process to ensure every candidate can fully participate. For any support through the recruitment process, reach out to jobs@scu.edu.au. #LI-VC1 #All Position Description Level B Position Description Level C How to apply: Start your application by clicking the "begin" button. Login to an existing account or reset your password Preview Application Form By choosing to continue, you agree to the Privacy Notice. Show Privacy Notice

Salary

$114,482 - $160,473 per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation

Posted

29 Oct 2026

Lecturer in Occupational Therapy

SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY

Southern Cross University

Australia, Gold Coast

institution

Southern Cross University

Australia, Gold Coast


Part-time (50%), continuing (permanent) position Teach at our vibrant beachside Gold Coast Campus Grow your academic career in a supportive, collaborative team Be Bold. Belong. Be More. At Southern Cross University, we do things differently, and so can you. A career with us is more than you might expect. Yes, it’s about the heart, connectedness and community you’d hope for in a regional university. But there’s also so much more. Our game changing Southern Cross Model brings a deeper, focused learning experience and our research is deeply connected to our regions, making a difference on a global scale. This is your chance to help us build something new and meaningful for our students, our communities and your career. To drive change, make a real impact, and thrive in a place as unique as you. You can be good anywhere. Here, you can be great. Your opportunity Southern Cross University’s Faculty of Health is seeking an enthusiastic Lecturer in Occupational Therapy to support the delivery of our new Master of Occupational Therapy program. In this role, you’ll contribute to high-quality teaching and student support, helping prepare future occupational therapists for meaningful, job-ready careers. Whether you are an early-career academic building your teaching profile or an experienced educator looking to deepen your impact, you’ll be supported to grow, collaborate and thrive. You will join an established team of occupational therapy academics and may also teach within our Bachelor program. Depending on experience, interests and operational requirements, there may also be an opportunity to undertake leadership responsibilities associated with work-integrated learning, through the role of Work Integrated Learning Academic Coordinator. You will make an impact by: Delivering high-quality, engaging teaching across the occupational therapy program Developing, reviewing and implementing curriculum that meets accreditation standards and supports student success Supporting work integrated learning and coordinating with industry partners to ensure meaningful learning experiences Contributing to research and scholarship that enhances the Faculty’s profile and informs best practice What you will bring You’re a passionate occupational therapist who enjoys supporting student growth and success. You enjoy applying contemporary teaching practices, collaborating with colleagues, and shaping learning experiences that prepare students for real-world practice.  To succeed in this role, you will also need: A PhD or show significant progress toward completing the same, along with academic and/or clinical experience. Registration or be eligible for registration as an Occupational Therapist in Australia through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra), with no conditions that would limit the capacity to fulfil the requirements of the position. Experience in the use of contemporary educational technologies and teaching in blended and online environments across a range of practice settings and populations Proficiency in designing, implementing, and evaluating curriculum and resources to improve student learning effectiveness An emerging track record in scholarship and research as evidenced by relevant peer- reviewed publications and publications/research plan, or other comparable scholarly achievements A commitment to culturally responsive practice Why Southern Cross University SCU is proudly a regional university, young, small and vibrant. That means you’ll find more exposure, opportunity and ownership - to grow, achieve and build a career that means more. And you’ll do it alongside passionate people and leaders who go the extra mile to help you succeed. A career with us is about more than just work. It’s about place, community and the life you want to live. With three main campuses at the Gold Coast, Coffs Harbour and the Northern Rivers region of NSW, we’re integral to all these wonderful communities. Find your place and be more in this beautiful part of the world. Your opportunity is: Part-time (50%), continuing (permanent) Located at Gold Coast, QLD 4225. Relocation assistance is available, making it easier to join our regional communities. ACAD Level B. The base salary ranges from $114,482 - $135,392 per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation. The total remuneration package is up to $158,409. You will enjoy a range of perks designed to support your wellbeing, growth and work-life balance. For more information on our benefits and what it’s like to work at SCU, visit Why work at Southern Cross University? Be more with Southern Cross University today Southern Cross University values potential as much as experience. If you do not meet all the listed requirements but are excited about the role and confident you can contribute, we encourage you to apply or reach out for more information. Name: Dr Michelle Bissett, Chair of Discipline (Allied Health & Community Welfare) Phone: 0407 388 215 Email: michelle.bissett@scu.edu.au Applications close 11.30pm AEDT 17 November 2026 Eligible applicants must have Australian or New Zealand citizenship, Australian permanent residency or current working rights in Australia for the entire duration of the appointment. Employer visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Applicants must apply online and attach a CV and cover letter. The cover letter must clearly address each selection criterion in the position description. Information to support you prepare your application is available on our website. Southern Cross University celebrates the rich diversity of our regions and international community. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that welcomes and values people of all backgrounds. We encourage applications from people of all genders, ethnicities, ages, languages, sexual orientations, and people with disabilities. We are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process to ensure every candidate can fully participate. For any support through the recruitment process, reach out to jobs@scu.edu.au. #LI-AM1 #GC Position description How to apply: Start your application by clicking the "begin" button. Login to an existing account or reset your password Preview Application Form By choosing to continue, you agree to the Privacy Notice. Show Privacy Notice

Salary

$114,482 - $135,392 per annum, plus 17% employer’s contribution to superannuation

Posted

22 Oct 2026

Subjects Taught at Southern Cross University

See below for a range of subjects taught at Southern Cross University

Business and Economics

  • Accounting and Finance
  • Business and Management

Computer Science

  • Computer Science

Education Studies

  • Education

Engineering

  • Civil Engineering
  • General Engineering

Law

  • Law

Life Sciences

  • Agriculture and Forestry
  • Biological Sciences
  • Sport Science
  • Veterinary Science

Medical and Health

  • Other Health

Physical Sciences

  • Geology, Environmental, Earth and Marine Sciences

Psychology

  • Psychology