UNSW Sydney's institutional identity centers on its community – comprising students, staff, alumni, and donors – rather than its physical infrastructure. The university attributes its distinct character to the diverse perspectives of its people, location, and mission, aligning these elements with its contribution to societal advancement.

In 2025, UNSW Sydney introduced its new strategic direction: Progress for All. This strategy reaffirms the university's commitment to achieving broad, inclusive global impact.

The strategy is guided by UNSW's Societal Impact Framework and structured around nine interlinked Strategic Pillars. These pillars consist of:

• Five Impact Pathways

• Four Impact Focus Areas

Collectively, these pillars establish the university's priorities for the coming decade.