Celebrating 110 years of Moving with Purpose

In 2026, VU celebrates 110 years of moving with purpose – turning knowledge into action, charting pathways to possibility, and accelerating ambition.

From its beginnings as Footscray Tech School in Melbourne’s west, to its future as one of Australia’s most progressive and fast-growing universities, we have reimagined learning to keep pace with a changing world – mobilising education, research and partnerships in ways that propel people, communities and causes forward.

Honouring our journey of progress, we elevate equity and excellence for the students of today, and step confidently into the future – building sector-leading impact that travels far beyond our campuses, from Melbourne’s west to the world.

Project 110 celebrations & events

Project 110 brings together elevated graduations, a gala event and impactful storytelling to honour our past, celebrate who we are today and set the stage for our future.

At its heart, Project 110 is about pride, connection and impact.

We want to bring our staff, students, alumni and partners together, strengthen our relationships with the communities we serve, and spotlight the achievements that make VU truly unique. Project 110 creates new opportunities for engagement, partnerships and philanthropy as we step confidently into our next decade.

We invite our VU community to get involved at every step of the way.

VU Impact Legends Awards

Our inaugural VU Impact Legends Awards will celebrate the transformative leaders who have demonstrated an exceptional commitment and contribution to progressing VU’s values and impact.

The VU Impact Legends Awards align to our five strategic drivers.

We invite our community to reflect on the people whose passion, purpose, care, and impact help make VU the remarkable community it is today.

Alumni, staff and students can nominate anyone they wish, as long as they meet the assessment criteria below.
Nominations are open now and close on Monday 8 June 2026.

Nominate now

Further information: [email protected]

: We want to recognise people who exemplify excellence in VU’s areas of strategic priority. We will choose at least one ‘legend’ for each category.
1. Learning-centred for life
We harness our dual-sector and equity strengths, VU Block Model and smart technology so our students can start well and finish brilliantly.
3. Partnering with principle
We cultivate an outstanding network of ethical alliances and partnerships, with enduring outcomes for every student.
5. Maximising research with impact
We deliver measurable, creative solutions that are adopted by governments, industries, and communities – locally and globally.
2. Protecting Country
We are a truly progressive, First Nations-led and inspired institution.
4. A thriving place to study and work
We are excellent, focused and brave – a destination University for emerging leaders and diverse talent.
Read more about our five strategic drivers.
: Our main aim for the VU Impact Legend Awards is to find and recognise individuals with a demonstrated exceptional commitment and contribution to progressing VU’s values and impact.
Some additional assessment criteria include:
1. Transformational leadership and influence: Directly aligned with the strategic pillar of the award category.
2. Commitment to equity and inclusion: Active promotion of inclusive practices, supports underrepresented groups, or advances inclusion in education, research, or engagement.
3. Student or stakeholder collaboration: Evidence of collaborative approach with students, colleagues, or external partners.
4. Societal impact: Addresses societal challenges, improving community wellbeing, which advances social, economic, environmental, or cultural outcomes beyond the University.
5. Future intent: Demonstrates willingness to become an ongoing ambassador for VU.

Celebratory Gala

The signature event for Project 110 will be a Celebratory Gala dinner on Thursday 8 October at the Melbourne Town Hall.

This special event will bring our VU community together to celebrate our past, present and future, bringing together students, staff, alumni, partners, community members and key stakeholders.

The evening will be hosted by ABC journalist and presenter, Michael Rowland and the Hon. Julia Gillard, 27th Prime Minister of Australia will deliver the keynote presentation. The event will also feature our students and alumni, including a performance from the very talented singer Fatai Veamatahau.

Proceeds raised from the Gala will be directed towards equity and excellence scholarships, advancing the next generation of VU students.

A limited number of tickets are available at $195.00 per head, including a three-course dinner, premium beverage package and live entertainment.

For information: [email protected]