UMSU is an organisation run by students, for students. We’re here to help you make the most out of your time at University of Melbourne. UMSU – the Smash Hits soundtrack to your uni days.

Find
support
Buddy
up!
Make a
difference
Express
yourself
Things to do at
UMSU
About the Student
Union

Find support

Oh no. Oh no. Oh nonononono… When things aren’t going to plan, you have UMSU – the best support act.

Resources for SurvivorsWe acknowledge that people who have experienced sexual assault will have a range of needs, including emotional, financial, academic and legal. If you have experienced sexual harassment or assault, or know someone who has, UMSU has a specialist Sexual Harm Reduction Coordinator and has also put together a list of services that may be useful. These services are discreet, professional and confidential. UMSU recognises that dealing with sexual assault requires sensitivity and respect.
LegalUMSU Legal Service is a generalist Community Legal Centre providing free, confidential legal advice to all currently enrolled UniMelb students. We are qualified lawyers providing assistance on legal matters not related to university necessarily, but things that might occur in your life while you’re a student – including traffic, public transport or fines, debts, scams, tenancy, traffic accidents and employment among other things. If we can’t help, we’ll know someone who can!
Advocacy ServiceYour studies don’t always go according to plan. If you have a problem with the Uni, or the Uni has one with you, you may need some advice. That’s where UMSU Advocacy comes in. With resources and tailored advice to help you understand your rights (and wrongs) at the University, we can guide you through the rules and processes governing your time at Uni. Graduate, undergraduate, domestic and international students are welcome to use this free, confidential service.
Welfare DepartmentThe Welfare department is here to support your health, growth and wellbeing, no matter what stage of your uni journey. If you want to create change in the community, we campaign on a broad range of student welfare concerns. Or you can come and hang out at our events, online or in-person. You can also sign up to one of our (many) giveaways!
Getting Around MelbourneParking can be an expensive pain, but UniMelb has heaps of ways for you to get ‘round campus. Trains, trams and buses are available on Melbourne’s PTV network, plus VLine for regional travel. There’s Melbourne Bike Share, lots of pedestrian paths and 24/7 taxi apps.
Disabilities DepartmentUMSU Disabilities is a safe and inclusive community which provides a space for students living with or experiencing a disability (including mental health). We help students empower themselves through education via our disabilities space, collectives, workshops, community events and more! Drop into one of our online or in-person events.
Women's DepartmentAre you a woman, nonbinary or gender diverse student? The Women's departement can't wait to hear you. We work to make the university a safe place, raise awareness about crucial female health issues, run feminist campaigns and, of course, host fabolous events. Drop by our Women and Women of colour collectives, come along to our free defense classes and volunteer with us. Who run the world?
People of Colour DepartmentWe promote welfare, provide a safe space and fight against racism for people of African, Asian, Pacific Islander, Aboriginal, Indigenous, Latin, Arab, multiracial and other relevant background. We have everything from social events to workshops and even a magazine you can get involved with!
Queer DepartmentIf you identify as queer or questioning we are here for you! The Queer Department celebrates, supports, and advocates for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, asexual, and all queer or questioning students at UniMelb. We host a variety of fun events and autonomous collectives where you can make friends, get support, and freely express yourself with likeminded people.
Report RacismReport Racism to People of Colour Department
International DepartmentInternational students of UniMelb, welcome to our UMSU International family! As your official representative body, our department cares for, stands for and acts for all international students. We host fun events and useful workshops to help you meet new friends from all around the world, to make the most of your university experience and turn Melbourne into a home away from home.
Indigenous DepartmentWominjeka! Welcome to the Indigenous department! We are committed to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students by promoting an inclusive, supportive and safe campus. We advocate for your rights, combat racism and fight for positive change. Plus, we facilitate deadly events for Indigenous students. Want to know more, or just need somewhere welcoming to de-stress? Come chill with us! We’ve got you.
Info CentreOur Info Centre can help with all the weird, whacky and one-off rando questions you might have about campus life, where to find stuff and even what to do if you leave your only clean lab coat on the tram! The Info Centre can also help with all manner of other services, including lost property and lab coat, table, picnic rug and eski hire. If there's something we can't help with, we'll be more than happy to point you in the right direction!

Buddy up!

Find the Sonny to your Cher, the Billie to your Finneas, the G to your Flip. Grow that friends list – get social at UMSU.

Clubs & Societies DepartmentLooking for free food? New friends? Fun stuff to do outside the lecture halls? We reckon you want to look at Clubs. Clubs are one of the easiest ways to enjoy some social time at uni. There’s over 200 UMSU clubs to choose from, meaning there really is something for everyone. Check out the full list of affiliated clubs – you won’t be disappointed!
VolunteerVolunteering is a fantastic way to make new friends, gain skills and make a difference. It’s a great way to earn real-world experience and contribute whilst sprucing up your CV. UMSU has a range of opportunities for caring, committed people just like you, so look out for our events throughout the year – there’s heaps!
Activities DepartmentThe Activities department is here to make sure your uni experience is way more fun than assignments and lecture halls! Our events provide the soundtrack to your uni life, finding places to feel good and form lifelong friendships, in an inclusive and accessible environment. With online and offline events, keep an eye on our department to hear about music, food, movies, comedy and lots more.
International DepartmentInternational students of UniMelb, welcome to our UMSU International family! As your official representative body, our department cares for, stands for and acts for all international students. We host fun events and useful workshops to help you meet new friends from all around the world, to make the most of your university experience and turn Melbourne into a home away from home.
Become a MemberBecoming an UMSU member only takes a sec, it’s FREE and we keep you up to date with all the rad stuff we’ve got coming up (100% spam-free). A strong UMSU membership strengthens UMSU’s voice when campaigning for what matters to you. Membership isn’t compulsory, BUT it helps us help YOU.

1. Clubs & Societies 2. Volunteer 3. Mentoring Network 4. Activities 5. International 6. Become a Member

Make a difference

We’re all in this together – Contribute and connect with causes close to your heart.

VolunteerVolunteering is a fantastic way to make new friends, gain skills and make a difference. It’s a great way to earn real-world experience and contribute whilst sprucing up your CV. UMSU has a range of opportunities for caring, committed people just like you, so look out for our events throughout the year – there’s heaps!
People of Colour DepartmentWe promote welfare, provide a safe space and fight against racism for people of African, Asian, Pacific Islander, Aboriginal, Indigenous, Latin, Arab, multiracial and other relevant background. We have everything from social events to workshops and even a magazine you can get involved with!
Disabilities DepartmentUMSU Disabilities is a safe and inclusive community which provides a space for students living with or experiencing a disability (including mental health). We help students empower themselves through education via our disabilities space, collectives, workshops, community events and more! Drop into one of our online or in-person events.
Women’s DepartmentAre you a woman, nonbinary or gender diverse student? The Women's departement can't wait to hear you. We work to make the university a safe place, raise awareness about crucial female health issues, run feminist campaigns and, of course, host fabolous events. Drop by our Women and Women of colour collectives, come along to our free defense classes and volunteer with us. Who run the world?
Education Public DepartmentThe Education Public department are pro-student and proud of it. We’re here to make sure your voices are heard. Education Academic is all about keeping procedures FAIR. Together we fight for everyone’s right to a free, safe and quality education — and we’re going to win! Jump on board with EDPUB and EDAC to join the movement giving power to the people.
Environment DepartmentUMSU Enviro is a close-knit community that welcomes anyone with an interest in sustainability! We run dynamic campaigns, as well as fun events and collectives - excellent ways to meet rad people and make a difference. Join Enviro and be part of the change you want to see in the world!
Education Academic DepartmentThe Education Academic department is all about fairness. Your exams, timetabling, special consideration etc., should be run fairly and student voices should be heard. Education Public is also pro-student and proud of it. Both groups are battling for everyone’s right to a free, safe and quality education — and we’re going to win! Jump on board with EDAC and EDPUB to join the movement.
Student RepresentationStudent Representatives work around the clock to ensure campus activities and opportunities are as fun and relevant as possible. Pretty much every area of uni life is covered by one of these departments, including governance. And you know the coolest thing about Student Representatives? YOU PICK ‘EM! Upcoming council meetings and their locations are listed on the UMSU website. Make new rules and count ‘em.
Queer DepartmentIf you identify as queer or questioning we are here for you! The Queer Department celebrates, supports, and advocates for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, asexual, and all queer or questioning students at UniMelb. We host a variety of fun events and autonomous collectives where you can make friends, get support, and freely express yourself with likeminded people.
Burnley CampusBurnley is UniMelb’s little satellite campus you might never have heard of! More garden than campus, Burnley nurtures the horticultural and forestry sciences. Burnley blooms with a culture of empowerment and sustainability, playing host to workshops and seminars on growing your own food, composting, keeping bees and much more. Curious? Join us and grow into your greener student life at Burnley.
Indigenous DepartmentWominjeka! Welcome to the Indigenous department! We are committed to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students by promoting an inclusive, supportive and safe campus. We advocate for your rights, combat racism and fight for positive change. Plus, we facilitate deadly events for Indigenous students. Want to know more, or just need somewhere welcoming to de-stress? Come chill with us! We’ve got you.
Southbank CampusUMSU Southbank represents all students studying at unimelb’s Southbank campus – whether you’re here for a breadth subject or a studying artist. Just call out our names and we’ll be there through the good times and the bad. We’ll ensure your education goes beyond just classes and help each other out when we need it. Getting involved in student life helps develop skills, make friends and leaves a lasting impact on the student community.
ElectionsSuffragettes sing we’re gonna do this thing – vote! Student elections occur yearly to elect those who best represent the student body’s needs. No matter if you want to get behind a party/candidate or run yourself, student elections are a great place not only to vote but to also get an IRL idea of how campaigns and committees are run.

Express yourself

Oh my god we see the way you shine. Submit a piece, meet likeminded people and project your talent into the stratosphere.

Media DepartmentStay connected and informed with UMSU Media! As your go-to spot for print, publication and broadcasting we’re your friends and that’s no lie. We produce the renowned Farrago magazine (95 years and counting!) and UniMelb’s student radio station, Radio Fodder. UMSU Media broadcasts a diverse range of voices on issues of importance to the student body. Attend one of our workshops or submit your work!
GalleryIf to be with art is all you ask there are plenty of ways to get creative at UMSU. The George Paton Gallery presents a program of student exhibitions and hosts Creative Workshops run by distinguished artists and makers. There is something to suit everyone’s interests and art medium. All you have to do is join in, explore new ideas and gain some great skills!
TheatreTake the stage with Union House Theatre. Whether its backstage, in the spotlight or behind the scenes, we cater for all. Be creative, learn new skills, make life-long friends, or find your creative muse! Our program of free workshops headed by industry practitioners is a great place to start. Watch your ideas come to life and have some fun.
Creative Arts DepartmentJump into UMSU’s thriving arts community! If you love music, dance, theatre, film, visual arts, fruit-carving or anything in between – we’re here for you. Come learn new skills at our workshops, meet fellow art-loving folk at our collective and events, and apply for our grants to help kick-start your creative projects. Get involved and find your people at Creative Arts!
Southbank CampusUMSU Southbank represents all students studying at unimelb’s Southbank campus – whether you’re here for a breadth subject or a studying artist. Just call out our names and we’ll be there through the good times and the bad. We’ll ensure your education goes beyond just classes and help each other out when we need it. Getting involved in student life helps develop skills, make friends and leaves a lasting impact on the student community.
Clubs & Societies DepartmentLooking for free food? New friends? Fun stuff to do outside the lecture halls? We reckon you want to look at Clubs. Clubs are one of the easiest ways to enjoy some social time at uni. There’s over 200 UMSU clubs to choose from, meaning there really is something for everyone. Check out the full list of affiliated clubs – you won’t be disappointed!

1. Media 2. Gallery 3. Theatre 4. Creative Arts 5. Southbank 6. Clubs & Societies

Things to do at UMSU

Think of this as your Daily Mix – there’s always something to do, see, or get involved in at UMSU. Come on feel the noise.

All EventsWhere do you get your hands on the star-studded line-up for all things UMSU? The ALL EVENTS CALENDAR! This page is so high up on the charts, it gets more traffic than the CBD on a Monday morning. It’s the best place to find out what’s on each and every day. Find out what collectives, events, meetups, parties and more are happening across all departments, Clubs and Societies. Your Events A-List on tap. 24/7.
TheatreTake the stage with Union House Theatre. Whether its backstage, in the spotlight or behind the scenes, we cater for all. Be creative, learn new skills, make life-long friends, or find your creative muse! Our program of free workshops headed by industry practitioners is a great place to start. Watch your ideas come to life and have some fun.
GalleryIf to be with art is all you ask there are plenty of ways to get creative at UMSU. The George Paton Gallery presents a program of student exhibitions and hosts Creative Workshops run by distinguished artists and makers. There is something to suit everyone’s interests and art medium. All you have to do is join in, explore new ideas and gain some great skills!
LibraryThe Rowden White Library is dedicated to student enjoyment. That’s you. The Rowdy offers tons of ways to help you switch-off and take time out. Resources include a huge library of audiobooks, eBooks, comics and magazines, plus videogames, puzzles, VR, a big screen TV and heaps more! We also hold events, from engaging talks to therapy dog sessions. Join the study-free fun and pat a doggo!
The Ida BarThe Princess Ida Club was established as a women’s space, at a time when we were excluded from men’s societies on campus. How things have changed! Ida Bar is everything you’d want from an on-campus bar – drinks and food at student friendly prices, pool tables and comfy couches. It passes the vibe check. Drink deep in the esteem of those who came before you, while we reflect on how their legacy has built a better tomorrow for everyone!
AVMelbourneThe world is a stage and AVMelbourne are here to help fight for your right to have a killer sound system at your event. AVMelbourne provide student discounts on AV equipment hire, as well as expert technical and production advice and assistance for events on campus. We can do sound, stage, lighting and projection.
Activities DepartmentThe Activities department is here to make sure your uni experience is way more fun than assignments and lecture halls! Our events provide the soundtrack to your uni life, finding places to feel good and form lifelong friendships, in an inclusive and accessible environment. With online and offline events, keep an eye on our department to hear about music, food, movies, comedy and lots more.
Clubs & Societies DepartmentLooking for free food? New friends? Fun stuff to do outside the lecture halls? We reckon you want to look at Clubs. Clubs are one of the easiest ways to enjoy some social time at uni. There’s over 200 UMSU clubs to choose from, meaning there really is something for everyone. Check out the full list of affiliated clubs – you won’t be disappointed!
Get DiscountsGot craft beer tastes on a generic brand budget? We have a heap of ways to help you get by on a budget while still having a ball. Cinema tickets, discount food, drinks, the finest in audio visual kits, uni essentials, stuff for the house and heeeeeeaps more… we’ve got you covered. Just ask and we’ll do what we can to make your life easier.
PublicationsRead up on the UMSU setlist, this is where you’ll find a small treasure trove of important documents that speak to you about how UMSU works and what’s most precious to us (and YOU, the students!)

About the Student Union

Can’t find the song you need? Hum a couple of bars and UMSU can help you sing along.

Fine PrintAll the Tees and Cees about UMSU! How we keep up this hot image and what we’re made of at the core.
Students' CouncilThis is the band of students who keep UMSU running and representing you and is the governing body of UMSU. There are 15 General Representatives (plus 6 elected representatives for special constituencies), all of whom are elected at the annual student elections in September. Notice of all meetings of Students’ Council are posted online and all students are invited to attend, move motions, and take part in the governance of UMSU.
PresidentUMSU is run for students by students! As your peak representative body for all student matters, we are here to make sure your voice is heard. The UMSU President acts as a spokesperson and you will be hearing from them throughout the year (make sure you follow UMSU social media)!
General SecretaryYou know how a DJ keeps the party going to everyone’s vibe? Well that’s kind of UMSU’s General Secretary, but in a slightly more serious way. The Gen Sec is on the decks to ensure UMSU is run in an inclusive and transparent way – from running Students’ Council to the overall governance of your Student Union – all in the name of supporting UMSU’s important campaigns and amplifying the voice of the UniMelb student body (that’s you!).
SSAFWanna know how UMSU manages to keep coming at you with chart-topping smash hit levels of good times and support? It’s all thanks to SSAF – the reason why your campus has such a vibrant and active community! You’ll notice SSAF stamps attached to the UMSU products and events made possible by the allocation of these funds. That way, you know just how important it is.
Social MediaBecoming an UMSU member only takes a sec, it’s FREE and we keep you up to date with all the rad stuff we’ve got coming up (100% spam-free). A strong UMSU membership strengthens UMSU’s voice when campaigning for what matters to you. Membership isn’t compulsory, BUT it helps us help YOU.
Become a MemberBecoming an UMSU member only takes a sec, it’s FREE and we keep you up to date with all the rad stuff we’ve got coming up (100% spam-free). A strong UMSU membership strengthens UMSU’s voice when campaigning for what matters to you. Membership isn’t compulsory, BUT it helps us help YOU.