Staff Hunger Interventions

The University of Newcastle supports staff food access through practical opportunities to obtain food without cost at work, share meals with colleagues and manage everyday food costs. Free catering at selected University activities and the redistribution of surplus food provide direct food access, while shared food-preparation facilities complement the University’s wider focus on an inclusive and supportive workplace.

Practical access to free food

Redistribution of surplus catering

The University redistributes surplus catering to reduce food waste and provide additional food access opportunities for staff. Where food remains after catered meetings and University functions, it can be made available to staff rather than discarded. This creates an additional opportunity to access food without cost while making better use of prepared meals.

Catered work events and community meals

Free food at University events through catered meetings, professional activities, and campus functions. Campus community meals and events, including BBQs, free breakfasts, and activities coordinated through other University programs, provide further opportunities for staff to share food and connect with colleagues.

A direct example of free food access for staff in 2025 was the University’s Demystifying Security Clearances event at Callaghan on 26 September 2025. Coordinated by the College of Engineering, Science and Environment, the event was held with free lunch and drinks advertised for attendees, including both staff and students among its participants.

An established culture of food and wellbeing activities

This approach has also been visible in earlier University initiatives. In 2023, the University recognised a wellbeing program at the Central Coast Clinical School that combined activities for staff and students, including free food, with wider opportunities for social connection and wellbeing.

Making everyday meals more accessible

Across the Callaghan, Newcastle City and Central Coast campuses, staff have access to a wide range of cafés, restaurants and food outlets offering nutritious meal options, including vegetarian and vegan choices. Cafés located within University libraries also provide convenient access to coffee, snacks and light meals throughout the day. The University’s staff food and bars directory includes dining locations across these main campuses.

Staff kitchens are available across campus buildings and provide free filtered hot and cold water, microwaves, refrigerators and food preparation spaces that enable staff to bring and store meals from home. Vending machines and coffee facilities are also located throughout campus to provide additional food and beverage access.

Food budgeting and nutrition resources

Cost-of-living support resources, including practical information to help staff manage household and grocery expenses, can help make day-to-day food planning more affordable. University researchers also provide free, evidence-based food budgeting and nutrition advice through No Money No Time. A University news story published on 28 March 2025 describes its practical recipes, shopping guidance and meal-planning resources for people seeking to eat well on a budget. This broadly accessible resource complements on-campus food provision.

An inclusive and dignified approach

The University is committed to fostering a workplace culture where access to food and wellbeing support is normalised, inclusive, and free from stigma. We recognise that circumstances can change at any time and that support services may be valuable to any member of our community. By offering food-related assistance openly, respectfully, and without judgement, the University helps ensure staff can access support with dignity and confidence.

Through food sharing at University activities, shared facilities and practical nutrition resources, the University helps staff navigate everyday food needs while fostering a connected workplace. Making these opportunities welcoming and accessible contributes to staff wellbeing across its campuses.

Staff kitchens

Providing free filtered hot and cold water as well as access to free microwaves, you can find staff kitchens in all buildings with office workers, more often than not there are several kitchens per building to mitigate lunch rush pressure. There are also vending machines and coffee machines provided around campus.

Our Commitment

The University is deeply committed to ensuring that all staff are treated with dignity and respect, especially when it comes to accessing food-related support. We recognise that anyone, at any time, may face challenges that make these services valuable. That’s why we aim to provide free food and related support in a way that is inclusive, discreet, and free of stigma. No staff member should feel lesser for accepting what is freely and openly offered. Our goal is to foster a workplace culture where accessing support is seen as a normal, respectful, and even communal act — not something that singles anyone out. By embedding equity and care into the way we offer these services, we hope to ensure that no one ever denies themselves the support they need out of fear.