University of Sydney On 11 October 1852, the University of Sydney was inaugurated, Australia's first university. The University of Sydney (USYD, or informally Sydney Uni) is a public research university located in Sydney, Australia. Founded in 1850, it is Australia's first university and is regarded as one of the world's leading universities. The university is one of Australia's six sandstone universities. Its campus, … Continue reading On this day (Australia): In 1852, the University of Sydney was inaugurated, Australia’s first university