Become a Member

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All enrolled University of Melbourne students are eligible to become members of UMSU and membership is free!

You can join UMSU when you enrol or update your membership details in the Student Portal Student Union Membership area. The University automatically provides your information to UMSU so there is nothing else you need to do!

Being a member of UMSU has many benefits, it allows you to actively support our 130-year-old student legacy on campus and show your backing for your student organisation. If you’re a member, we’ll make sure you are first to know about UMSU news and events, and if you want to enter the glittering world of student politics, you’ll need to join up to be a candidate in UMSU elections. So, what are you waiting for?

How to Update Your UMSU Membership

If you missed signing up for UMSU during enrolment, don't worry, you can still update your preferences in the Student Portal.

Please note it can take up to 24 hours for your changes to be updated.

Become an UMSU Member

Go to the Student Portal
Click on the profile icon on the right side
Select "Personal Details"
Select "Student Union Membership Details"
Select "Yes" for "I would like to become a member of the University of Melbourne Student Union."
Select "Yes" or "No" to "I would like access to UMSU's Club membership opportunities"
Make sure you click Update and Submit!

Withdraw UMSU Membership

Go to the Student Portal
Click on the profile icon on the right side
Choose "Personal Details"
Choose "Student Union Membership Details"
Select "No" for "I would like to become a member of the University of Melbourne Student Union."
Make sure you click update and submit!

Get Club and Society Memberships

You don't have to be an UMSU member to purchase a Club or Society memberships, just follow these steps:

Go to the Student Portal
Click on the profile icon on the right side
Choose "Personal Details"
Choose "Student Union Membership Details"
Select "Yes" for "I would like access to UMSU’s Club membership opportunities."

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I do if I no longer want to be an UMSU member?

If you no longer wish to be a member of UMSU you can withdraw your membership by following the steps "Withdraw UMSU Membership" above on the Student Portal. Remember it can take up to 24 hours to process.

How do I know which UMSU services and events are free?

All support services, social groups and events listed on our website are free, unless otherwise specified (clubs, societies and collectives occasionally run ticketed events which they sell at a subsidised price for students). Make sure that you head to the All Events Calendar and follow UMSU on Instagram and Facebook to see what’s happening when on campus!

The membership question on my enrolment form said I have to agree to be bound by the UMSU Constitution – it's 300-pages - help!

First off – good call! You really shouldn’t sign up for things you haven’t read. I bet you always read the small print before you click “I accept” on websites, software etc (LOL). The term “bound by UMSU’s Constitution" simply refers to the way UMSU manages its membership. Nevertheless, if you are concerned about how the Constitution deals with members, members’ complaints about UMSU etc then have a look at our Constitution – it’s in plain language and easy to read (if a tad boring).

Hey I can't purchase a Clubs membership and I'm a student!

Just follow the steps above in the "Get Clubs or Society Membership" section. Remember it can take up to 24 hours to process before you can purchase a membership.

What changed in UMSU’s Constitution in September 2019?

In September 2019, after a lengthy and vigorous consultation, students approved a number of changes to UMSU’s Constitution – the rules that govern how we operate. Overall, these changes ensure that the students elected to representative roles in UMSU had the necessary support and protection to ensure that we continue to represent students, and that the organisation is governed in a sound and legislatively compliant way.

As an incorporated association, UMSU also required to make some changes to comply with changes to the legislation governing such bodies.

Principally the legislation requires that all incorporated associations maintain an up to date membership list. Previously UMSU has not done this, as all students are automatically deemed members of UMSU, and enjoy all of the benefits of the organisation without needing to do a thing. However, we are now legally required to keep a membership record.

It is important for everyone to understand that regardless of whether you sign up to become a member or not – UMSU’s services and activities remain completely available to everyone.

However, as a result of the legislative requirement to collect a membership list, we now need you to tell us whether you want to be a member of UMSU or not.

Can I still access UMSU services and events even if I’m not an UMSU member?

Absolutely! The Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) funds a wealth of free food, entertainment, events and support services which are all free for you throughout your time at University. You can find out more about the SSAF here.

Contact

Have a question that’s not answered here? Get in touch with us at membership@union.unimelb.edu.au