UWS Transport Initiatives

UWS is a multicampus university set in a rapidly expanding peri-urban area. This poses significant challenges for transport. In response the University is using IT-enabled learning to reduce travel to class (see vUWS). 

UWS also operates a number of solutions that allow telecommuting and video communication in order to lower the carbon footprint of the University. These solutions have some overlap but broadly speaking they cover the followings areas:

• Large groups, Teaching and Seminars - AccessGrid
• Small groups, meetings - Polycom video conference suites
• One to one, up to three-way conference from the desktop - Skype

For further details, please see the UWS IT services catalogue and Collaborative Teaching and meeting technologies at UWS (PDF, 1.6Mb)

SURF Projects

The Sustainable UWS Rolling Fund (surf) program funds sustainability projects that are developed, managed and implemented by UWS staff and students.

SURF Penrith Bike Reuse Project
The Penrith Bike Reuse Project is a community engagement proposal with Nepean Youth Accommodation to establish a bike reuse centre where old bikes are upgraded and and resold at a nominal fee to encourage sustainable transport.

Bike Fleet Initiative

Recently the Office of Sustainability has sent out a survey detailing the potential of a bike fleet pilot project to be situated at Hawkesbury campus. Results show that 94% of responses (both students and staff) would consider using a bike as transport when on the Hawkesbury campus. The use of bikes around campus has a number of benefits. These include a reduction of cost and wear in relation to car usage, the engagement of exercise and a reduction in transport pollution associated with cars. Further announcement will be made once the fleet becomes available to Hawkesbury staff and students. Any questions or suggestions, please contact the Office of Sustainability.

Bike Facilities at UWS

UWS is continuing to update its cycling facilities on all campuses. Bike parking locations are marked on each of the campus maps. Further bike facilities are listed on the UWS website.

UWS Transport Access Guides

These guides enable staff, students and visitors to travel to UWS campuses in a sustainable manner that includes walking, cycling and public transport. You can reduce your carbon footprint, improve your health and save time and money. For more information, please see Transport Access Guides.

Bike User Group (BUG)

UWS has established a Bicycle User Group for the Werrington Enterprise Living and Learning (WELL) Precinct working with Penrith City Council, UWS Penrith, Kingswood TAFE and local residents. Cycling events include Ride to Work Day and Commuter Challenge

Did you know that FREE cycling proficiency training is available through Austcycle.

Pool Cars

Staff can access UWS Pool cars. Why not search the system to locate other people who are travelling to the same destination. For more information, please see Vehicle Fleet Management System.

For further information on Transport at UWS, please contact the UWS Transport Accessibility Manager. 

Transport projects at other universities and colleges

• Bicycle programs - for example see McMasters University (opens in a new window)
• Shift to sustainable transport behaviours - for example see Duke Univerisity (opens in a new window)
• Greening campus deliveries - for example see University of North Texas (opens in a new window)
• Car pooling - for example see Latrobe University (opens in a new window)

If your section of UWS is addressing any of these areas or additional ones, please let us know by emailing us at sustainability@uws.edu.au