The heart of Graduate Student life
The Graduate Student Association (GSA) is an independent, membership based, association that represents all graduate coursework and research students at the University of Melbourne.
With a 30-year history, and as the largest dedicated postgraduate association in Australia, GSA plays a vital role in advocating for student interests, fostering cohesive communities, and delivering year-round events, programs, development opportunities, and support to the graduate student community.
It is an incorporated association (ABN 11274192974) and registered charity.
Strategic Plan 2025-2030
The 2025-2030 strategy sets the direction for GSA over the next five years. It highlights the areas where we thrive and identifies key opportunities. All of this is captured through our goals and priorities, which are aligned with our four pillars: Representation, Community, Impactful Services, and Organisational Performance.
GSA's Purpose, Vision, and Mission
The Purpose for which the Association (GSA Constitution, Clause 1.3) is established is to advance education, including by:
(a) advancing the interests and welfare of graduate students;
(b) representing graduate students within the University and to the community;
(c) promoting academic and professional support services for graduate students;
(d) fostering a sense of community amongst graduate students;
(e) striving for free and accessible quality government funded education;
(f) supporting equity and the engagement of the diverse graduate student body in the life of the University; and
(g) promoting the role of graduate students in addressing the challenges of the future and building a just and fair society.
GSA Vision
An organisation known and valued by all the graduate students at the University of Melbourne, respected by our partners, and trusted by graduate students as the voice that advocates their interests.
GSA Mission
GSA is the elected representative organisation of graduate students at the University of Melbourne, run by students for students. Through our graduate student perspective, we create value by targeted advocacy; impactful services; and meaningful opportunities for community and engagement. We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where every student can thrive academically, socially, and professionally.
Our Values
- Grow, learn and continuously improve
- Engage collaboratively and inclusively
- Be approachable and responsive
- Promote a respectful and caring environment
- Demonstrate accountability and honesty
- Embrace friendship and fun
GSA Structure
GSA is made up of a Board, a Representative Council and a Faculty Council who are all Graduate Students at the University of Melbourne elected by fellow graduate students to represent them. Click Here to view GSA’s governance structure.
The operations of GSA are managed through the impactful team of professional staff. Click Here to view GSA’s staff structure.
For more information about working at GSA, visit our Careers page or if you are a graduate student looking for student representative positions, visit our Student Representative Casual Vacancies page.
