An update from the GSA President: July 15th 2025
Dear Graduate Students, and a big welcome to all new coursework students and researchers!
GSA’s O Week, designed exclusively for graduate students, is just around the corner. I encourage you to check out the events listed in this newsletter and start planning what you’d like to come along to. There’s plenty on offer, and it’s a great way to connect, get some delicious free food, and kick off the second half of the year!
I’m also delighted to share that our PhD Peer Mentoring Program officially launched last Friday. It was fantastic to see researchers from Arts, Engineering & IT, and MDHS come together, each at different points in their journey, but all keen to support and learn from one another. I’d like to thank everyone who expressed interest and got involved. I’m wishing you all the best in the months ahead, and remember, GSA’s here with you every step of the way.
On another positive note, GSA has been working closely with the University to improve access to library technologies. Thanks to efforts from our elected representatives, Policy & Advocacy team, and dedicated PhD students, we’ve seen real progress.
This includes more accessible reading documents on the LMS across all disciplines, the selection of new library systems that prioritise accessibility, and ongoing audits
to improve how accessibility features are shared with students. The Library is also exploring new tools for accessing alternative formats and working with key universities and bodies across the country to make sure accessibility is carefully considered in future resource purchases. While there’s more to do, these steps mark important progress toward fairer access for all students.
In the meanwhile, please don’t hesitate to reach me at president@gsa.unimelb.edu.au. I’m always happy to meet.
Yours sincerely,
Ethan Chou