FAQs

Following the dissolution of the previous Student Union (in 2017), the need for student advocacy became apparent.

To fill this gap, the Student Consultative Committee (SCC) was formed in 2020 under the leadership of Louisa Quiddington (Student Representative on UNE Council 2018-2020), who pioneered the establishment of the committee and its draft constitution. The aim of the SCC was to be a student led committee to which areas of the university could consult for input on projects, moving towards a collaborative model for students to work with staff. Over the next several years the SCC faced many changes and challenges.

Under the leadership of Emma Wellham (Student Representative on UNE Council 2020-2023), 2021 was largely focused on keeping the SCC afloat within the ever-changing university landscape. The change in leadership and governance structure during the developmental years of the SCC proved trying. Through ‘Time For Change’ and the COVID-19 pandemic, many areas of UNE were greatly impacted with staff shortages, increased staff workload and stress, and decreased support, especially for the SCC.

The constraints of being a ‘Consultative Committee’ and the need for a more autonomous student body was identified and worked on tirelessly by the 2022 Chair and SCC Committee; Emma Wellham, Caitlin Davey, Evie Levens, Paris Stellini, Chris Hvass, Chloe Fairclough and Phoebe Kaye (among others whom assisted at various points in the year).

A marked change is currently occurring in 2023. There is the biggest committee we have had to date (16 students), the implementation of subcommittees to engage more students and liaise with other student leaders, and the change from our previous Constitution to our new ToR (Terms of Reference) for more autonomy.

The Student Council's main purpose is to represent all students as best we can. We hear from our fellow students on important issues, and as a part of UNE Governance we are in constant contact with key university members, including the Vice Chancellor, the UNE Council, and Academic and Administration staff from all over the University.

We are here for the benefit of students. We campaign for change on issues, run student competitions, answer student queries, are a point of contact for students, and offer students support when dealing with grievances.

Getting in touch with the SCC is the best way if you’d like to get more involved. All projects and the latest updates can be seen on Microsoft Teams. Work is not limited to just within your own project group, so if you want to leave a comment or open a suggestion you can always contribute in meetings or via the project channels.

If you would like to take the lead on a project, you are more than welcome to put your hand up for that also.

Once our website has been developed, you name and efforts will be featured to show your contributions you made to UNE. We encourage students who work wit the SCC to add the details of their work to their CV. If you would like a reference letter or referee, please ask the Chair or Admin Officer.

The Chair role is the only ‘paid’ position which receives an honorarium each year from the SSAF Budget. SCC members are not paid and the positions are voluntary. Each year, SCC members will have the opportunity to come to Armidale for the Student Council Retreat which is funded by Student Services and Amenities Fund (SSAF). Members will work with together with university staff and be a part of making real change for all students. All work can be put on a resume or CV to show future employers that you volunteered your time for the betterment of the UNE Community. Outstanding achievements will be acknowledged.