Curtin University’s Sustainability Challenge is an intensive, credit-bearing, challenge-based learning unit that equips students with the skills, confidence and experience to respond to complex sustainability problems. Delivered over one week during the mid-year trimester break, the program brings together students from across disciplines to work in interdisciplinary teams on real sustainability briefs posed by industry, government, community and university partners.

Structured around the themes of net zero emissions, circular economy and nature positive outcomes, the Challenge mirrors professional sustainability practice. Students work under genuine time pressure, receive mentoring from academic and industry experts, and present their solutions at a public showcase attended by partners, university staff and community members.

Since 2022, the domestic Sustainability Challenge has engaged 354 students. Its companion Global Sustainability Challenge has connected students from Curtin campuses across Australia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Malaysia and Dubai, demonstrating the model’s international relevance and scalability.