UNSA — Student Services

Between January and March 2025, the University of Newcastle Students' Association (UNSA) delivered a wide-ranging suite of student-focused programs and services designed to promote wellbeing, connection, and student leadership across all campuses. The initiatives below highlight UNSA’s impact in fostering an inclusive, supportive, and vibrant student experience during Q1:

  • Food & Drink Programs: The Free Lunch Program served ~6,250 students across Callaghan, Ourimbah, NuSpace, Gosford, HMRI, and Sydney, alongside kitchen supplies and food pantries that addressed food insecurity and supported student connection.
  • Sport & Recreation: Campus events such as Autonomy Week, Welcome Week, and Pride Week engaged thousands of students, while collaborations with Wollotuka, EDI, and community partners amplified cultural and social inclusion.
  • Clubs & Societies: Over 80,000 AUD supported club admin, events, awards, and grants, enabling vibrant student-led activities and online initiatives that built leadership, community, and peer connection.
  • Health & Welfare: Programs run by the Women’s, Queer, First Nations, and Parents & Carers Guilds provided health and welfare support, with online resources and activities reaching diverse student groups.
  • Careers & Volunteering: UNSA facilitated volunteering, internships, and work-integrated learning, creating pathways for real-world experience and boosting student employability.
  • Libraries & Reading Rooms: Plans are underway to furnish new student spaces at Campus Heart, supporting study, relaxation, and social engagement.
  • Artistic Activities: Music competitions, DJ and band events, and art initiatives celebrated student creativity and encouraged campus-wide participation.
  • Student Media (OPUS Magazine): UNSA supported student editors, writers, and media contributors, ensuring strong print and digital presence that amplified student voices.
  • Advising & Support: Frontline services assisted thousands of students with queries, financial support, and access to clubs and activities, enhancing the student experience.
  • Advocacy & Representation: The Student Representative Council and UNSA Board strengthened student leadership through honorariums, training, and conferences, ensuring meaningful student representation.
  • Orientation & O-Week: Welcome events, BBQs, merch giveaways, and activations connected ~6,000–7,000 students to UNSA services, setting the stage for an inclusive and engaged university journey.

Overall, these initiatives supported student success, wellbeing, cultural connection, and an enriched university experience across all campuses.