Student Feedback on University of Newcastle (SFUN)

What is the SFUN?

The Student Feedback on the University of Newcastle (SFUN) i is your opportunity to give feedback on your experiences at the University of Newcastle. This survey is launched once a year, normally around March.

It covers all the non-academic aspects of university life like health and wellbeing, timetabling, transport, events, communication and much more!

In 2023, we sent the survey out over 28 345 Undergraduate, Postgraduate, HDR & Enabling students studying at Callaghan, Sydney, and Central Coast campuses, and online. 35% of students responded. Have a look at the results here.

SFUN 2024 will commence on Monday 25 March and run until midnight Sunday 5 May.

Your feedback makes a difference and will help shape changes and improvements on campus.

Access the 2024 SFUN

What can I win?

There is heaps of merchandise to be won - from a Fitbit Sense and Chromecast, to Campus food & retail vouchers and e-Gift cards. There are also some unique campus experiences on offer. There is something for everyone! Check out the complete prize list below.

Anatomy Lab Tour with Professor Alan Brichta (for you and a friend)

Are you ready to unravel the secrets of the human body? Step inside our state-of-the-art Anatomy Lab and discover the fascinating world of biomedical and health research! Our guided tour for two will take you on an eye-opening journey through the intricacies of how the human body is collected, dissected, preserved, stored, and studied.

However, fair warning - this tour is not for the faint of heart! Our Anatomy Lab may be state-of-the-art, but it's also the real deal. You'll be face-to-face with human specimens and learn about the inner workings of the human body in a way you never thought possible

Nubots Lab Tour with Dr Alexandre Mendes (for you and a friend)

Are you ready for a mind-blowing experience? Step into the world of the NUbots team and witness the future of robotics firsthand! Our team of brilliant engineers and scientists are developing cutting-edge autonomous humanoid robots that can play soccer with the best of them. And we don't mean those boring robots that move in slow motion - we're talking about fast-paced, action-packed soccer games that will leave you on the edge of your seat!

But that's not all - we're giving you the chance to pit your skills against one of our small human-sized robots. Think you have what it takes to outsmart these machines? Give it your best shot! Or, if you prefer, sit back and enjoy a highly entertaining visit as you learn about the incredible innovation and real-world applications of our research.

Radiopharmacy Laboratory Tour with David Lyall  (for you and a friend)

Embark on a fascinating journey through the purpose-built Radiopharmacy Laboratory of our university and witness the work we are conducting in the field of Nuclear Medicine. You'll have the opportunity to explore the cutting-edge techniques and technologies we utilize to measure radiation, extract radionuclides using a generator system, and prepare radiopharmaceuticals.

Cancer Research Lab Tour with Vishnu Tikku (for you and a friend)

Step inside the University of Newcastle’s Global Centre for Gynaecological Diseases, located in the Callaghan Life Sciences Building, and meet the brilliant minds behind some of the most innovative treatments in the field. Dr. Fairuz Jamaluddin and Florence Bartlett are leading the charge in developing new therapies to improve outcomes for cancer patients suffering from female reproductive cancers such as cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, fallopian, and vulvar cancers alongside endometriosis.

Using cutting-edge techniques and state-of-the-art technology, they're diving deep into the mechanisms involved in the development, progression, and metastasis of gynaecological malignancies. With every breakthrough, they're making strides in unlocking the secrets of unlimited growth, survival, and proliferation of cancer cells. Their laboratory has an overlying goal of improving patients’ prognoses.

And the best part? You'll get to see it all first-hand. From peering at cancer cells under the microscope to hearing about the latest research findings, you'll be amazed at the incredible work being done by these leading scientists.

i3 Lab: iDome Experience (you and a friend)

Gamers, brace yourselves for the ultimate interactive experience! The i3Lab iDome is about to take your gaming to the next level. With cutting-edge VR headsets and an incredible 180 degree iDome screen, you'll be immersed in a world of gaming like never before.

Get ready to experience the latest display technology that will transport you to another realm, with every sound and movement bringing the game to life. But that's not all - you'll also get the inside scoop on some of the fascinating research projects we're working on in the lab.

Have Lunch with the Vice Chancellor, Alex Zelinsky

Join us at Local Connections for an incredible opportunity to pick the brain of one of the most accomplished leaders in the field of innovation. Our University's Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO, has a track record of building multimillion-dollar companies, programming robots, and being named an Innovation Hero.

During this relaxed lunch, you'll have the chance to ask the VC all your burning questions about leadership, innovation, and building a successful career. Whether you're curious about what it takes to lead a complex organization, build a thriving company, or make a lasting impact in the world of robotics, our VC has the experience and expertise to guide you.

And the best part? You'll be surrounded by like-minded peers who are just as passionate and driven as you are.

Meet and greet with a leader of your choice

Imagine having the opportunity to meet and chat with one of the most accomplished and inspiring leaders in your field of interest. Now, imagine that opportunity is just a few clicks away. Whether it's a leading professor, a renowned researcher, or a visionary executive, this is your chance to connect with someone who can help shape your future.

During your meet and greet, you'll have the chance to ask questions, share your ideas, and learn from someone who has already achieved great success in your field. You'll be able to gain valuable insights, expand your network, and build meaningful connections that can help you achieve your goals.

Fitbit Sense 2 Smart Watch

Want to stress less, sleep better and get healthier? The Sense 2 Smart Watch is the latest model from Fitbit that can track your heartrate, allow you to pay on the go with Google Pay, find your way with Google Maps, manage stress with breathing exercises, monitor your sleep patterns and exercise smarter. Here's to a healthier you! Valued at A$447.

One-year Membership to NuSport at The Forum

Feel like the only exercise you're getting is walking to class? With this Annual Membership to The Forum, you can break a sweat without breaking the bank! Enjoy access to a start-of-the art gym facility with a 50m indoor heated swimming pool and access to all group fitness classes!

2024 Car Parking Permit

Win a Callaghan campus parking permit and save your money for textbooks or beer (or both). Permit valid at Callaghan only.

$100 EFTPOS Gift Cards

Want free petrol? Dinner paid? With a Mastercard voucher you can spend money wherever prepaid Mastercard Gift Cards are accepted. Two up for grabs!

YETI Rambler 36oz Drink Bottle w Chug Cap (1065ml)

The ultimate companion for university - an insulated drink bottle! Say goodbye to boring old water bottles and hello to a bottle that's as smart as you are. Made from top-notch, brain-boosting materials (ok, it's just stainless steel), this bottle is designed to keep your hydration levels at an all-time high. This insulated bottle will keep your water cold for up to 24 hours.

$20 Food & Retail Vouchers

Put down the instant noodles and microwavable burritos and say hello to a food voucher that will satisfy your taste buds and your wallet! We have seven to be won and are redeemable either at Local Connections (Callahan campus) or Ganda Burung (Ourimbah).

$50 Amazon Store Gift Cards

Treat yourself to something nice and choose from literally thousands of products from the online store.

Google Chromecast

Attention all entertainment enthusiasts! Stream content directly from your phone, laptop or tablet to your TV, using thousands of compatible Android and iOS apps. And for an even more immersive experience, mirror your Chrome browser tab onto your TV screen.

University of Newcastle Keep Cup

Enjoy your morning brew while being kind to the environment. Win yourself a reusable heavy-duty glass cup with a secure push on silicone lid and a wide heat resistant band. Whether you're pulling an all-nighter or just trying to survive your 8 a.m. class, The Shop Keep Cup has got you covered!

Why do I need to participate?

Your feedback matters! By participating in the the SFUN survey, you can actively influence the future of your university experience. Let's ensure that the vision for our campus reflects the voices of all students, not just a select few. Your feedback can make a real difference and help us improve the university experience for everyone.

Take a moment to think about the things you enjoy about your university experience. The high-speed Wi-Fi that allows you to easily complete your assessments, or the new food vendors at The Lawn that offer delicious lunch options - these improvements were a direct result of student feedback from previous surveys.

Your feedback is a powerful tool that can drive change and shape the direction of our university. So why not take the time to complete the SFUN survey and share your thoughts and ideas? Your input can help us improve our facilities, services, and programs, and ultimately provide you with an even better university experience.

Don't miss out on the chance to make a difference.

How does it work?

All domestic and international onshore students enrolled in a program are eligible to participate and will receive an invitational email when the survey commences. Alternatively you can access it by visiting www.newcastle.edu.au/surveys.

You will be asked to complete questions about various aspects of the campus and university experience. You will then be asked to select which prizes you are interested in - Yep you get to choose what you want to win!

All prize winners will be contacted by the Student and Staff Insights Team via email when the survey period has ended.

Is my response confidential?

Yes. All survey responses are kept separate from identifying information. If you want to know more, have a read through the Participant Privacy Policy.