SAE was established in Australia in 1976 as the world’s first audio engineering institute. The early success of SAE and the demand for our practical, theory-based and industry relevant training quickly led to the establishment of other campuses nationwide. By 1982, SAE had campuses in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. The purpose-built Byron Bay campus, offering unsurpassed audio facilities, opened in 2003.

From the establishment of SAE’s first institutes and courses, government accredited VET and Higher Education qualifications were introduced. SAE has now evolved to become a global leader in creative media education.

In 2004, SAE acquired Qantm College, a leading digital media educator specialising in 3D animation, games design and programming, web development and graphic design.