News Corp targets future readers with free UNSW subscriptions

News Corp Australia is expanding its push to build future audiences, signing a campus subscription deal with the University of New South Wales that gives eligible students and staff free digital access to The Australian and The Daily Telegraph.

The agreement gives the UNSW community access across desktop, mobile, apps, newsletters and podcasts. It also opens the door to internships, guest speakers, roundtables and campus events.

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News Corp eyes the next generation of readers

The program will extend beyond subscriptions, with News Corp Australia planning on-campus activations and editorial engagement. That includes a presence at UNSW’s Kensington Campus O-Week in February 2027.

Michelle Gunn, Editor-in-Chief of The Australian, said the partnership would give students greater access to journalism covering politics, business, technology, health, wealth and culture.

“Empowering the next generation through trusted journalism helps students understand the issues shaping life in Australia and beyond,” Gunn said.

“‘Welcome to the Contest of Ideas’ is our mission statement, inviting UNSW students and educators to challenge orthodoxies, ask hard questions and engage with our reporting across politics, business, technology, health, wealth and culture.”

Kelly Purcell, News Corp Australia’s Head of B2B Digital Subscriptions, said the company launched its campus product eight years ago and has since expanded it across major Australian universities.

“Bringing UNSW into the program gives us an incredible platform to connect with future readers and journalists in a meaningful way,” Purcell said.

“Beyond offering our journalism, this program opens the door to on-campus activations, editorial engagement and deeper collaboration with the university sector.”

UNSW backs access to journalism

Professor Verity Firth, UNSW Vice-President Societal Impact, Equity and Engagement, said access to quality journalism was increasingly important as trust in information comes under pressure.

“It enables us to stay informed, understand different perspectives, and engage thoughtfully with the issues shaping our communities and society,” Firth said.

“Whether you're exploring developments in your field, following current affairs, or simply seeking to better understand the world around you, this is a valuable resource for our university community.”

The subscriptions will be distributed through a custom co-branded registration portal. UNSW will also promote the offer through student communications, newsletters and campus events.

News Corp Australia said the agreement forms part of its broader strategy to build future audiences and deepen relationships across the higher-education sector.