University of South Australia Student Association

The University of South Australia Student Association (USASA) is a non-profit student-owned organization dedicated to providing services and a voice for students of the University of South Australia.

Overview

USASA is the peak student organization at the University of South Australia, responsible for providing various services such as academic advocacy, financial wellbeing support, student clubs, and social events. These services aim to enhance the university experience for UniSA students across all its campuses.

History

USASA was established in 1994 as a result of the merger that formed the University of South Australia. Initially, the period leading up to its establishment was managed by a confederation of existing student unions. The association has undergone significant changes, including a rebranding to 'UniLife' following the introduction of Voluntary Student Unionism (VSU) by the Howard Government in 2006. In 2013, students voted to return to the original name and structure, focusing anew on student representation.

Services

• Academic Advocacy: Providing confidential advice on academic issues to support students in navigating university policies and procedures.
• Financial Wellbeing: Offering non-judgmental financial counseling to assist students facing financial challenges.
• Clubs & Societies: USASA supports over 80 clubs across a range of interests including social, academic, cultural, and social justice initiatives. These clubs significantly contribute to the university's social scene by organizing numerous events annually, fostering student connections and friendships.
• Grants: Providing financial support to student clubs and groups for activities that enhance the student experience.

Structure and Governance

The association is governed by a Student Board, which serves as the peak decision-making committee. USASA also includes a presidential leadership role, with the president overseeing strategic directions and student representation at the university.

Affiliations

USASA is affiliated with the National Union of Students (Australia), which allows it to collaborate with other student organizations nationally on issues affecting students across the country.

Leadership

The leadership of USASA is elected annually by students, with the president holding a one-year term. The structure includes multiple roles to ensure comprehensive representation of student interests across the university's campuses.

Locations

USASA operates across the University of South Australia's campuses in metropolitan areas as well as regional centers, including the Centre for Regional Engagement that encompasses Whyalla and Mount Gambier campuses.

Overall, USASA plays a vital role in enhancing student life at UniSA by providing a platform for student engagement, advocacy, and support across various aspects of university life.

[1] https://usasa.sa.edu.au [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/University_of_South_Australia_Student_Association [3] https://i.unisa.edu.au/students/experience-unisa/clubs-societies/ [4] https://www.instagram.com/usasaadelaide/ [5] https://usasa.sa.edu.au/about/