In 2023, GSA sent a submission to the Select Committee on Cost of Living which addressed financial challenges faced by graduate students at the University of Melbourne and made recommendations.
In 2024, GSA submitted a supplementary submission with additional information and expanded recommendations, based on new data outlining graduate students’ food insecurity, renting and placement experiences.
GSA consulted the graduate student community at the University of Melbourne (UoM) to gather their feedback on the introduction of new University rules relating to protests on University premises.
GSA’s Education (Research) Officer for 2024-25, Scott Arthurson, developed this report highlighting graduate researchers’ workspace needs. GSA conducted a survey of 410 graduate researchers, a Townhall, and extensive consultation of our members.
Students and graduate researchers who rely on the use of assistive technologies such as screen readers or alternative input devices struggle to access library resources in an efficient and timely manner. This is largely due to the inaccessibility of websites and resources provided by publishers.
GSA’s submission highlights the drivers and impacts of food insecurity among graduate students at the University of Melbourne, as well as the barriers they face when accessing food relief.