Voluntary Student Unionism FAQs

The Australian Government's Voluntary Student Unionism (VSU) legislation came into effect on 1 July 2006.
The legislation means that university students are no longer required to pay a compulsory general service charge (GSC), and that you can choose if you would like to join a student body based on the services and facilities they offer.* The GSC was not kept by the University but collected to help support the five student bodies at the University.

* All postgraduate students are automatically members of NUPSA at no charge.

What is the University of Newcastle doing to keep services going?
The University will provide financial support to each of the student bodies to assist them to be able to continue to provide the unique student experience of studying at University.

Will I have to pay a GSC in semester 2?
No. The University of Newcastle is not charging a GSC for semester 2 2006.

What's different this semester, now that VSU has taken effect?
You will save the GSC cost but still be able to access the same services. Some services may change their location as the new HUBS begin to operate. Membership to each of the student bodies will now be on a voluntary basis for a set fee. Membership may provide additional benefits.

Do I still get a discount on my food and drinks?
Yes. Membership to the University Student Union (Callaghan campus) will be free for semester 2 2006, but students will still be able to receive a discount on food and drinks.

Do I still get a discount at The Forum Sports & Aquatic Centre?
Yes. Students of the University of Newcastle receive a 30% discount on membership packages at The Forum Sports & Aquatic Centre, and will also receive discounts at The Forum Health & Wellness Centre, Harbourside, due to open in October this year. Memberships start at $7 per week. Staff and alumni of the University receive a 15% discount on membership packages. Please check their website for details at The Forum.

Can I still use NUSA and NUPSA if I don't become a member?
Yes. Postgraduate students are automatically members of NUPSA at no charge. Undergraduate students may choose to join NUSA at a cost of $19. Many of the NUSA and NUPSA services are available to all University students, while members may receive additional services and benefits. Please check their websites at NUSA and NUPSA.

Where do I go if I have a dispute or an issue I need to resolve, such as a result I don't agree with?
The University has a policy on the resolution of complaints, and the Dean of Students is also able to assist if you are not sure of your rights in a particular situation, or have a problem and don't know how to proceed. Information on the resolution of complaints and the Dean of Students is available on our current students page. NUSA, NUPSA and Campus Central (for Ourimbah students) provide additional advice and support and the Ombudsman is an additional avenue for complaints.

What will happen to services in 2007?
There will be many new services and businesses available to students on campus in 2007. The University plans to update and contemporise its services and provide a wider, diversified range of services in a more vibrant environment.

More information on the University of Newcastle's student organisations.

VSU FAQs

Voluntary Student Unionism FAQs