Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
Student's Union
The University of Newcastle recognises the independent students' union, the University of Newcastle Students’ Association (UNSA). UNSA is a not-for-profit, student-led organisation that represents students through democratic governance and provides advocacy, welfare services and social opportunities across the University community.
The organisation was formed on 1 July 2020 and was active through 2025. It replaced the three previous separate student associations: NUSA, NUPSA and Yourimbah. UNSA serves students across campuses and online, including those studying through the Cloud Campus.
Independent governance and University recognition
UNSA is governed by a Student Representative Council (SRC) elected by students, and a Board of Directors with elected student and independent members. The University’s 2025 Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) Allocation Report expressly identifies UNSA as a student-led organisation with democratically elected leaders and organisational independence. The same report records $2,342,568 in SSAF funding allocated to UNSA during 2025, supporting its recognised role while maintaining its distinct governance.
Student voice in University decisions in 2025
In 2025, UNSA provided governance input through its elected SRC, student advocacy and involvement in University consultation. The University’s SSAF reporting documents consultation with elected student representatives and UNSA on funding priorities for student services and campus activities. UNSA’s advocacy and governance work helped bring students’ perspectives into decisions affecting their study experience.
A practical example was UNSA’s 2025 advocacy for after-hours study facilities at Gosford. Following student consultation and discussions with the University, the University committed to a six-week trial of 24-hour study-space access beginning in January 2026. This was a 2025 student advocacy outcome, rather than a service already operating in that year.
Student welfare and practical support in 2025
UNSA provides a broad range of services including welfare & wellbeing, clubs & societies support, advocacy and social & cultural activities.
Across 2025, UNSA’s Food Pantry assisted 236 students, Free Food Friday reached 2,768 participants and more than 34,000 free lunches were provided across six campus locations. The University’s published January–March 2025 UNSA service summary separately records approximately 6,250 students reached by the free-lunch programme in the first quarter, alongside food pantries, student-support services and activities across its campuses.
As part of its student wellbeing programs, UNSA provides discounted First Aid and Mental Health First Aid training, supported via the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF). These additional services complement its welfare and advocacy role.
Clubs, events and student community in 2025
During 2025, UNSA organised more than 230 campus events and activations, including Welcome Week, Pride Week and student music and cultural events. It also supported 89 active student clubs, which collectively delivered 1,577 club events. The University’s 2025 UNSA service summary documents student club grants and activities, student media, orientation events, performances and wider opportunities for students to build connections.
Earlier initiatives supporting inclusion and leadership
In 2024, UNSA organised “HEARD”, an inclusive event held at the Ourimbah Campus for the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, combining student cultural activities with opportunities for discussion and connection. The University’s 2024 HEARD event listing documents this earlier contribution.
UNSA also contributes to the University’s Student Experience Awards, recognising student achievement in peer support, perseverance, campus contribution and excellence. These programmes illustrate a broader commitment to student participation beyond formal representative processes.
Through its recognition of UNSA and engagement with elected student leaders, the University of Newcastle supports an independent voice for students in institutional decisions. UNSA’s advocacy, practical assistance and student-led activities help students contribute to university life, access support and build a stronger campus community.
This week
Recurring
Thrive for Wellbeing
THRIVE for Wellbeing is a free weekly group for students wanting to improve their wellbeing and learn new ways to navigate challenges, whilst connecting with fellow students.
Every week on Thursday, until Nov 12, 2026
Upcoming events
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Master of Teaching Webinar
Looking to change careers and teach leaders of tomorrow? Join us to learn how you can become a secondary or primary teacher.
Webinar
Master of Sports Analytics Webinar
Join Program Convenor Dr Paul Stolk and GIS Regional Director Ray Boggiano for an exclusive webinar to discover how the Master of Sports Analytics and Master of International Sports Business at the University of Newcastle, can help you reach your
Webinar
Master of Architecture webinar
Join Program Convenor, Dr Timothy Burke, to learn more about how studying the Master of Architecture at the University of Newcastle can help you achieve your career goals, hear about the program and engage in Q&A.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.