Financials

The majority of the funding FUSA receives is from the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF). The SSAF is a compulsory fee charged by the University which supports nonacademic services and amenities for Flinders students. Student consultation takes place when considering how the income will be used to provide or enhance these services and amenities.

Every year, FUSA submits a funding request and budget to the SSAF Budget Advisory Committee which provides a recommendation to the Vice-Chancellor regarding how the SSAF income should be allocated across the University.

This funding request is prepared in consultation with the Student Council and FUSA staff. Student Council then approve the final funding request and budget. In the 2021 round, FUSA was allocated $2,187,000 for 2022.

SSAF funds are required to be spent in accordance with the Allowed Amenities and Services as provided for under Section (19-38) if the Higher Education Support Act 2003. Unspent funds for the year are returned to the University’s SSAF holding account to be disbursed as per the above section in the Act.

Student Engagement $1,060,557

Salaries, operational costs, support for initiatives that enhance student experience.

Student Representation $66,000

Development Grants, support for student academic representation and voice across all colleges and support for the functions of Student Council.

Events $275,000

Student focussed events and activities including O’Weeks, cultural and issues specific events and activities on campus.

Student Advocacy & Welfare $376,743

Independent and confidential academic advocacy, financial counselling, emergency financial assistance and welfare support to students.

Communications & Media $136,500

FUSA and Student Council promotion marketing, including website and social media presence, production of Empire Times, Student Diary, and student focussed campaigns such as Be a Better Human

Clubs & Societies $149,000

Funding for non-sporting student clubs and societies, including social, political and international clubs, and academic associations

Student Council $71,500

Funds for individuals to pursue projects relevant to the platforms they are elected on, and for their professional development.

Income and Expenditure Report

January to December 2022:

In consultation with Student Council and with the support of University administration the FUSA team were able to adapt to conditions and opportunities throughout the year to respond to student need and changing circumstances. Savings primarily due to vacancies in some positions (Student Engagement line above) were utilised for the following key spends:

-Additional development grants delivered to students

-Bringing forward spends for 2023 including for student diary and other merchandise

-Replacement Large Format Printer

-Additional resources to the Be a Better Human Project redevelopment

Ben Smith Manager Student Engagement