History

In 1987 Curtin University of Technology became Western Australia’s third university and Australia’s first university of technology.

Curtin made the transition from the Western Australian Institute of Technology (WAIT) to a university with the passing of an Act of Parliament in December 1986, accepting its first students as a university in 1987.

The Curtin name was taken from the influential and widely revered former Prime Minister of Australia, John Curtin. Remembered as a true statesman, Curtin held office during World War II from 1941-1945, when he died in office only six weeks before the Japanese surrender. He led Australia through some of its darkest years with resolute tenacity and will be remembered by Australians, regardless of their political leanings, as one of the country’s greatest leaders.

Now, more than 50 years after his death, Curtin University still strives to honour John Curtin’s values of vision, leadership and community service. We believe our innovative curriculum, world-class research and dedication to community service embrace John Curtin’s values.