Western Sydney University embraces Microsoft Copilot for all staff

Western Sydney University has given every staff member access to enterprise grade Microsoft 365 Copilot, becoming the first university in New South Wales and the second in Australia to do so, marking a decisive step in the University’s commitment to preparing its people and students for a rapidly changing future.

From 16 July, every staff member, including casuals, and Higher Degree Research candidates has had access to Copilot, integrating AI securely into their everyday systems and day to day work. This means more time and capacity to focus on what matters most: students.

The rollout follows a successful 100-user pilot trial, which demonstrated how Copilot can help minimise the time staff spent on repetitive and low value tasks, freeing them up to work on more high value and meaningful work.

Vice-Chancellor and President, Distinguished Professor George Williams AO, said: “We’re not adopting AI for its own sake. We’re doing it because it helps us better deliver on our core purpose – student success.”

“A student starting with us today will graduate into a workforce that looks very different from the one we know now. It’s our responsibility to make sure they’re ready for that world – and that starts with making sure our staff are equipped to lead the way.”

With Copilot staff can draft documents, summarise meeting outcomes, analyse information, create presentations and spend less time on routine tasks, allowing more time to focus on higher-value teaching, research and professional work.

The partnership builds on a Memorandum of Understanding signed with Microsoft in late 2025 and reflects Western Sydney University’s human-centred approach to AI adoption.

The initiative forms part of the University’s focus on digital equity and preparing graduates for the future of work. By providing staff with access to AI tools and training, the University is ensuring that the benefits of AI are responsibly embedded in our community and student experience.

“Our students are telling us they want the people who teach and support them to be proficient in AI. They know these technologies are the future of work and expect their university experience to prepare them for that reality,” Professor Williams said.

“By providing every staff member with access to Microsoft Copilot, we’re ensuring our people have the skills and confidence to use AI effectively and securely. When we free our educators from time-consuming, repetitive tasks, we give them back what matters most: time with their students.”

“AI is changing how Australians learn and work, and our universities have a defining role in preparing people for that future,” said Jane Livesey, President, Microsoft Australia and New Zealand. “Western Sydney University is showing what genuine ambition looks like, giving every staff member and its Higher Degree Research students the tools, the training and the confidence to use AI well.”

“This places Western Sydney University among a leading group of universities worldwide leading the way in bringing Copilot to all staff, and it reflects what we value most at Microsoft: keeping people at the centre of AI, empowering them to lead the change, and building the future of work together. We’re proud to be their partner on that journey.”

Alongside the University’s investment, Microsoft will provide additional support, assisting with staff training and effective adoption – including capability development in areas such as agentic AI, curriculum design and student engagement.

The University’s human centred approach to AI will be reflected in the design of training programs supporting the Copilot rollout, which will include the development of a community of practice to share knowledge and learning across the institution.

The initiative ensures equitable access across the University, and builds on work already underway, with educators across the University reimagining teaching, learning and assessment through AI and digital innovation.