Frequently Asked Questions

Got a question (or three)? You're in the right place! Explore our many Frequently Asked Questions to find your answer!

Lost Property

I've lost something! What do I do now?

If you’ve lost something, there are 2 things you should do: 

  1. Report the item as lost on our lost property database, so if it’s found anywhere on campus, we can contact you! Follow this link: Report Your Lost Item 

  1. Come visit our lost property to see if your item has been handed in

How long are lost items kept, and what happens after that?

All lost property is kept for a minimum of 1 month*, but electronics, clothing, all personal identification documents (e.g., passports, licenses), and anything else of value are kept for at least 3 months

*Items that are dangerous to handle or illegal are immediately disposed of or handed over to the appropriate authority. 

What happens to lost property after 1-3 months? 

Safe-to-donate items are cleaned and donated.  

Items that are of lower value (e.g. most water bottles, stationery) are placed directly on our Free to a Good Home table at the Information Centre, while anything kept for 3 months or longer will be donated through donation programs (the Welfare department’s semesterly second-hand market or a local op-shop). 

Items that cannot be donated (e.g., heavily used notebooks, damaged clothing, many electronics) are either given to e-waste, destroyed or handed over to the appropriate authority (e.g., for passports, ID cards). 


How do I get to [insert your building/location of choice] on campus?

If you’re in the area, come visit us at the Information Centre—we’ll happily help you find your destination! 

Otherwise, you can give us a call or use the University’s interactive map—it includes a customizable accessibility feature to avoid stairs and barriers. Check it out here: University Map.

Where can I park my car or bike on campus? 

For bikes: Check out the Bicycle Map here and information about using a bike on campus here

For cars: Details about car parking (excluding deliveries) can be found here

Are there accessible routes or facilities for disabled students on campus?

Absolutely! The University’s map includes an “Avoid stairs and obstacles” feature. Once you select your destination, just check the box for accessible routes. 


Shops, Services & Merch

What shops are there on campus?

Explore all the food and retail venues on campus here: Food and Retail Information

I want a tour of the campus! How can I get one? 

There are three types of tours available for the Parkville campus: 

  1. For New Students: Host tours run during Orientation Week (the week before Week 1 of Semester 1). These tours are held hourly from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. throughout the week. Check the UMSU Summerfest schedule for more details closer to the date! 

  1. For Anyone (In-Person): Free tours are held every Tuesday and Friday during semesters at 10 a.m. Registration is essential: Free tour sign up 

  1. For Anyone (Online): Can’t make an in-person tour or just prefer to go at your own pace? Take a free self-guided tour here

I need a JP (Justice of the Peace) to certify a document. Where can I get this done?

Our JP is available Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Appointments can be booked by contacting us, or we accept walk-ins (subject to availability). 

Find more information on our JP information page.

I want merch! Where can I get it?

University merch is available at The Welcome Centre in the 1888 Building. Otherwise you can check out their Online Merch Store

UMSU merch is sold at the Information Centre, Level 1, Building 168. 

Can you assist with delivering packages to offices in the building? 

UMSU does not provide mail services for students or non-UMSU staff. 

For deliveries, use the Australia Post automatic mail lockers: Mail Lockers Info


Facilities: Study Spaces, Lockers, Pianos & Special Venue Booking

Where can I find quiet study spaces or libraries, and how can I book a study space if needed? 

Looking for somewhere to study? Check out: 

Library locations and opening hours: Library Information 

Real-time library space availability: Study Space Availability 

Bookable study spaces: Book a Study Space 

Are there any lockers on campus I can use?

Yes! There are lockers available for student and staff use across UniMelb campuses.

Our in-depth locker page is under construction right now, but check out the uni's locker information page in the meantime: Locker Information 

My locker was empty when I opened it! What do I do? 

No problem! Come to check lost property at the Information Centre (Level 1, Building 168).

If we don't have it, you may have simply been assigned a new locker number. Call security on 8344 6666 and they can help open your old locker.

Where can I find pianos on campus? 

Pianos are available for both public use and music students: 

Public Use

Market Hall 

One in a private room on level 1 (room bookable through DiBS) 

One on the indoor balcony on level 1 

Arts West 

Upstairs, near the balcony 

Law Building 

On the ground floor, near the entrance 

Music students

Pianos and other practice rooms are available for music students in Melba Hall (the Conservatorium of Music on the Parkville campus) and across the Southbank campus. 

Refer to the Faculty of Fine Arts and Music resources webpage: Current student resources 

How do I book Wilson Hall or the Old Quad? 

Wilson Hall: Details and bookings can be found under the “Wilson Hall” drop-down on the Venue Management Special Venues page. 

Old Quad: Visit the Old Quad Booking Information page for more information.


Events & Clubs

Where can I find an events calendar or more information about upcoming UMSU or student club events? 

Check out all UMSU events on our Events Page

How do I join (or start) a student club? 

Browse the full list of student clubs: UMSU Clubs & Societies database

Can’t find the right club? Start your own! Club applications open at the start of each semester. Find all the details here: How to Affiliate a Club

For other questions, visit or call the Clubs Office (9am–4pm, Monday–Thursday, Level 1, Building 168) on 8344 4515, or email them at clubs@union.unimelb.edu.au 

How do I borrow equipment (e.g., tables, picnic rugs) for my club’s event? 

We loan out picnic rugs, tables, eskies, first aid kits, and BBQ cleaning packs for club use—all for free! 

These can be booked through the DiBS portal: DiBS Booking.

How can a club get access to TE Reserve/DiBS?

Student clubs can get executive access to TE Reserve and DiBS (the two main booking systems for UniMelb). 

Links for access request below*, but there are strict instructions on how to gain access, so look at the information webpage before requesting access to make sure you won’t be rejected here: https://services.unimelb.edu.au/venuehire/clubs  

TE Reserve Access Request Form
https://go.unimelb.edu.au/bo38 

DiBS Access Request
Email info@union.unimelb.edu.au  

 

*GSA (Graduate) and Sport clubs request access by contacting the following: 
GSA: info@gsa.unimelb.edu.au
Sport: clubs-coordinator@unimelb.edu.au 


Safety & Concerns

How can I report suspicious or concerning activity on campus? 

The best place to report anything (even if you’re unsure if it’s serious) is security. 

Call them on 8344 6666 and they will give you the best information for the situation. 

Where can I get help if I feel discriminated against or treated unfairly at the University? 

For Study-Related Concerns 

E.g., issues with a subject, grade, teacher or classmate, or you’ve been accused of academic misconduct 

Visit our Advocacy web pages: Advocacy Support 

For Sexual Harm Response and Prevention 

If you have experienced or witnessed any unwanted sexual behaviour, please contact UMSU’s Sexual Harm Response services immediately on our Resources for Survivors webpage. 

For Non-Study-Related Concerns 
E.g., feeling harassed or discriminated against on campus, or witnessing inappropriate behaviour 

For general concerns, contact the Safer Community Program on the Safer Community Webpage 

 

For any immediate assistance, call security on 8344 6666 

For Something Else or If You’re Not Sure 

Visit either Stop 1 or contact the Information Centre (contact details at bottom of page) for guidance on your situation, including what options are available to you. 


Support & Wellbeing

I need Advocacy or Legal help! How can I access these services?

UMSU Advocacy and Legal services are free and available to all UniMelb students.

Before submitting a contact form (available at the bottom), it is essential to review the self-help resources available on the relevant webpages. Students who have not done so will be directed to these resources first, which may delay resolution.

By ensuring you have reviewed the self-help resources beforehand, you can save time and receive assistance more efficiently.

Advocacy

Legal

How do I access mental health or counseling services?

The University provides a range of mental health services, including free and paid options.

The best place to start will be CAPS (Counselling and Psychological Services) - they will help you figure out which service is the best for your situation. 

Their locations, phone number and business hours are all listed on their webpage here.

Where can I find support & assistance with an assignment or subject (excluding tutoring)? 

If you need help with assignments or a subject, here are your options:

For One-time or Ongoing Assistance
Start by discussing your needs with your subject coordinator. If you require additional help, you can apply for Special Consideration. This is useful for situations like extensions, adjusted deadlines, or ongoing support (e.g., extra time during exams).

What If You Are Unfairly Rejected for Assistance?
If your request for an extension, Special Consideration, or other support is unfairly denied, you can refer to UMSU’s Advocacy resources. Our Advocates are here to help! You can find more information and contact details here.

Where can I find someone to help tutor me in a subject?

While neither the University nor UMSU offer direct tutoring services, you can:

  1. Contact a Faculty Club: Many clubs host study sessions or can connect you with senior students. Find a list of faculty clubs here.
  2. Consider ongoing support: Apply for Special Consideration if your needs are broader than tutoring.

Student Admin

Where can I get help with enrolment or changing my timetable? 

Stop 1 is your go-to place for enrolment or timetable changes. You can get help:

  • In-person
  • By phone: Call 13 MELB (13 6352).
  • Online: Visit the Stop 1 webpage.
How can I replace or pick up my student card?

Stop 1 can assist with student card replacements. Note that there is a replacement fee for lost cards (but not for cards that are believed to have been stolen).

Learn more here.

I have a question about graduation... 

Find answers to all your graduation-related questions on the University’s Graduation FAQ page.

Who do I contact if I have questions about scholarships or financial aid?

Scholarships: Explore the Scholarship FAQs.

Financial aid: Learn about financial aid options here.


Questions About UMSU

What is UMSU? 

UMSU (University of Melbourne Student Union) is the representative body for students at the University of Melbourne. We aim to enrich student life by providing:

  • Advocacy services
  • Clubs and societies
  • Social events and festivals
  • Free legal and financial advice
  • Support for academic and personal challenges

UMSU is run by students, for students, ensuring your voice is heard on campus.

I’m a business, club, or organization and I want to collaborate with UMSU or UMSU International. How can I do this? 

Want to see your brand at UMSU events? Shoot us an email at advertise@union.unimelb.edu.au  

If our International student team is better suited to your needs, reach out to partnership-umsuintl@union.unimelb.edu.au  

What are UMSU Office Bearers, and how can I contact them?

UMSU Office Bearers (OBs) are the student representatives who lead our different departments, elected every year in semester 2.

Although these are official roles, OBs are students first and foremost, so their work is conducted around their classes rather than working regular office hours.

You can find more information on each department, including their contact details, on the UMSU Office Bearers webpage.

I want to be an Office Bearer or join the Student Council! How can I do this?

Office Bearer and Student Council positions are elected each year in semester 2. 

How to Run: 

Either reach out to an existing party, or you can run independently.  

For more information on running for any position and registering as a candidate, check out 2024's elections page here.

For UMSU International positions, check out their election page here.

Parties that ran in the 2024 UMSU election (in alphabetical order): 

  • Activate 

  • Community for UMSU 

  • Independent Media 

  • Independents for Southbank Student Democracy 

  • Left Action – Free Palestine! 

  • More! For UMSU 

  • Rebuild 

2024 election results can be found here: https://go.unimelb.edu.au/ko38  


UMSU Membership

Am I a member of UMSU? How can I check? 

Most students will find that they are already members - membership is applied during your enrollment as a UoM student.

If you're unsure, you can check your membership status by following these steps:

  1. Go to the Student Portal
  2. Click on the profile icon on the right side
  3. Select "Personal Details"
  4. Select "Student Union Membership Details"
I'm not a member! How can I become one? 

Joining is easy (and free)!

Follow the steps on our Become a Member page.

Do I have to be a member of UMSU? How can I cancel my membership? 

Membership is optional, and you can cancel it at any time, however please note that students are not exempt from paying the SSAF, even if they are not UMSU members.

Membership can be withdrawn by following the same steps as becoming a member (see above question).

If you have any questions regarding membership, feel free to contact membership@union.unimelb.edu.au.
I have a different question about UMSU membership

For any other membership questions, please feel free to reach out to us at membership@union.unimelb.edu.au.

Still have questions? Give us a call or come visit us! You can find us at:

UMSU Information Centre
Level 1, Building 168, The University of Melbourne
(+61) (03) 8344 6966

Or email us at info@union.unimelb.edu.au

 

Album cover - Info centre