RUSU Elections 2014

HAVE YOUR SAY

Annual

Elections

2014

Annual Elections 2014 The RMIT University Student Union (RUSU) provides all RMIT students with events, representation and support.

RUSU is the only 100% independent body at RMIT and is governed by 25 elected student representatives that comprise the Student Union Council – RUSU is run FOR students BY students. We are here to ensure every student’s university experience extends beyond lectures and assignments. Every week RUSU’s purple colours are out and about with free food and fun. RUSU has over 80 clubs and societies that students can join – clubs may be political, spiritual, academic, cultural and social. While RUSU is the heart of student life, RUSU is also here for students when they need help - we have an extensive student advocacy service, information counters, offer a welfare drop-in centre and keep safe spaces on campuses.

About the Elections: Voting at these elections will be by the optional preferential and optional proportional representation methods. Optional proportional representation will be the method of counting for those positions where more than one candidate is to be elected.

If you want to vote, you don’t have to vote for every position – just the ones’ you’re interested in. You also don’t need to vote for every candidate. For each position you want to vote on, give a “1” to the candidate you prefer, a “2” to your second choice if you have one and keep going as far as you like. General Representatives and NUS delegates are proportionally elected (like the Senate), while all other positions have a single winner. The Returning Officer is John Milburn–Clark.

Polling booth times and locations Polling booths will be located at the following dates, locations and times.

Monday 8 September

Tuesday 9 September

Wednesday 10 September

Thursday 11 September

Friday 12 September

Swanston Street Foyer, Bld 8.3

10.30am – 3.00pm 4.00pm – 7.30pm

9.30am – 5.00pm

9.30am – 5.00pm

10.30am – 3.00pm 4.00pm–7.30pm

9.30am – 2.00pm

SAB Foyer, Bldg 80.3

10.30am – 3.00pm 4.00pm – 7.30pm

Carlton | Bld 57.4 The Cafeteria Bundoora West Foyer, Bldg 202

10.30am – 3.00pm 4.00pm – 7.30pm 10.30am – 3.00pm

11.00am – 2.00pm

11.00am – 2.00pm

11.00am – 2.00pm

Bundoora East Lounge, Bldg 254

11.00am – 2.00pm

10.30am – 3.00pm

Brunswick Foyer, Bldg 514

11.00am – 2.00pm

11.00am – 2.00pm

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RMIT University Student Union Annual Elections 2014

Policies RULC

Stand Up!

RULC is committed to create a different RMIT atmosphere, making everyone feel welcome and included in everyday student life. We believe in making a difference to the processes in which RUSU makes their decisions and would like to work towards creating a stronger campus culture.

Stand Up! is a collaboration of lefties, environmentalists, feminists and anti-racist activists.

(No logo supplied).

CONNECT Connect is a diverse team of passionate students ready to deliver another action-packed, quality year of support and service to the RMIT community.

This year we’ve once again put together a team of new and old, fresh and experienced. Many of our team have been representatives for their programs, have volunteered with RUSU, or have lead student clubs, societies and associations. These experienced and passionate students are now ready to take it to the next level and be your voice at RUSU. Connect delivers results. In recent years, Connect candidates have fought and won significant changes to assessment policies, making assessments fairer and protecting your intellectual property rights. Connect has worked to continue great projects like the Realfoods Café and Compass Drop-In Centre, as well as increasing volunteering and training opportunities available to students.

In 2014, Connect delivered a student lounge and a common lunch hour at Bundoora, more free social events at Brunswick campus, and significantly increased the provision of free healthy food at weekly events in the City.

With your support, Connect is ready to do it again. With a fantastic team lined up, full of ideas and passionate about improving university life, you can’t go wrong with Connect.

Connect offers the accountable, active representation that the students of RMIT deserve. VOTE 1 CONNECT!

RMIT University Student Union Annual Elections 2014

Stand Up! for Free Education The Abbott government’s budget is the biggest assault on students in a generation. They plan to: • Deregulate fees, meaning potentially unlimited fee increases for both domestic and international students • Apply up to 6% interest rate on HECS debt • Abolish start-up scholarships, turning them into a loan • Cuts to Newstart and Youth Allowance under the orwellian ‘Earn or Learn’ strategy (aka starve and suffer) Stand Up! believes these changes are aimed at creating a two-tier education system that benefits the wealthy and cripples the rest of us.

Stand Up! has been leading the campaign against these reforms, and the budget more broadly.

Stand Up! candidates have been central to organising the large days of protest against the reforms getting much needed media coverage for the student movement.

Stand Up! pledges to continue the campaign until these reforms are off the table for good!

Stand Up! believes that successfully defeat Pyne’s reforms is not enough, that the campaign should continue pushing for improvements to the education and welfare systems.

Stand Up! reaffirms our commitment to the principle that quality education should be free and accessible for all students, regardless of income, gender, race or any other factor.

Stand Up! also believes in a student union with a social conscience. We think RUSU should speak out against injustice - whether that’s standing in solidarity with the Palestinians, fighting to free the refugees or campaigning for environmental justice.

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Statements General Secretary Benjamin Jenkins (RULC) (No Photo supplied).

As General Secretary I would like to ensure that I will increase the efficiency of the universities administration in a way that will enhance the student experience.

The RULC team and I will bring new life into university student services.

RULC is committed to create a different RMIT atmosphere, making everyone feel welcome and included in everyday student life. We believe in making a difference to the processes in which RUSU makes their decisions and would like to work towards creating a stronger campus culture.

Ariel Zohar (CONNECT)

I firmly believe in proper financial management; student money should be handled, spent and reported in a manner that is both responsible and that maximises the student experience.

As General Secretary I will work to reform RUSU’s internal operations to deliver the accountable and efficient Student Union that students deserve.

my fellow students and I will ensure that I carry on the work ethic that I have demonstrated this year into the role of General Secretary for 2015.

VOTE 1 CONNECT!

Mohammad Shafai (Stand Up!)

The fact of the matter is that the student union should exist to fight injustices to all students, and to make an argument to the whole student population that the way to win what we deserve is to stand up and fight against those who try to take it away from us.

Hi, my name is Mohammad; I’m a firstyear Computer Engineering student at RMIT. I speak four languages and am passionate about technology, human rights and political debating. I’m an activist on campus not tied to any of the major political parties. As General Secretary of RUSU, I want to help run the student union in a way that is active and represents all students.

I’m an active campaigner in support of Palestine, been going to pro-Palestinian protests for the past two years, and think it’s abhorrent that RMIT does research into military projects like drones that bomb people overseas. RMIT should be allowing students to research things that benefit society not destroys it.

Education Officer Luke Hocking (Stand Up!)

The role of the General Secretary isn’t all about money, though. The General Secretary is responsible for convening meetings and ensuring that the Union runs smoothly day to day, so that elected student representatives can concentrate on delivering services for you.

I have had the honour of serving the students of RMIT over the past year in the capacity of General Secretary.

If re-elected to this role, I will work to make sure that your Student Union is operating as efficiently and effectively as possible. I care passionately about

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And that’s why you should vote for me.

I’ll take a stand for every student’s rights, and the right of every student to come to university in the first place. But even more than that, I’ll get out there and fight for it, damnit! And everyone I can carry will get dragged along with me. If the union wants to sit idly by while students’ rights get attacked, well, they’ll have to answer to a new kind of Education Officer.

The name is Luke. Remember it. Write it down on your ballot, and win an Education Officer that truly cares about education.

Laura McMahon (CONNECT)

Recently proposed changes to Australia’s higher education system could see more than fifty million dollars of funding ripped from RMIT University.

Your university fees would sky-rocket under proposed fee deregulation, and HECS debt would drastically increase with higher interest rates.

Now is the time to stand up against these attacks on education! As your Education Officer, I will lead the campaign to keep education affordable and equally available to all.

Alright, listen up. You all know what you’re looking for in an education officer. Someone who is going to actively do stuff would be a start.

Someone who pushes the whole union, or the whole student body, into getting on board would be even better.

Closer to home, I will work to secure compulsory recorded lectures, to have more course materials available online, and to further improve the student timetabling system.

As Education Officer and head of the Student Rights Department, the promotion of transparency and fairness

RMIT University Student Union Annual Elections 2014

in academic evaluation is also something that I will fight hard for. I will strive to promote fairness and justice in all special consideration and appeal cases.

Marco Portmann (CONNECT)

With your support, we can make a real difference.

Vote 1 CONNECT!

Welfare Officer Heidi Knight (Stand Up!)

Hi! My name’s Heidi. The Liberal government is currently attacking students and young people’s access to welfare. They want to abolish startup scholarships, turning them into a loan. They want to make drastic cuts to Newstart and Youth Allowance under their Orwellian ‘Earn or Learn’ strategy (aka starve and suffer). I think it’s vital that we have a welfare officer that does more than hand out muffins & fruit in the morning.

This is a nice gesture but combating student poverty will require changes in government policy. That’s why I think the welfare officer should be supporting the campaign against these ‘reforms’ until they are off the table for good!

I also think that successfully defeating Abbott & Pyne’s reforms is not enough, that the campaign should continue pushing for improvements to the education and welfare systems.

Student welfare should be the number one priority of the student union. I believe that no matter what you study or where you are from, university life should be enjoyable and rewarding.

Your financial position should not affect your university experience and the opportunities available to you. Students deserve more support on campus to ensure they achieve their best results and enjoy university.

The health, safety and wellbeing of students is of the utmost importance.

As Welfare Officer, I will tackle the big issues facing students of RMIT; housing, employment, youth allowance, health, and safety on campus.

With the Abbott Government’s attacks on students coming thick and fast, quality representation and advocacy is needed more than ever. I have the experience and the devotion to make it happen.

In 2015, I want to continue the hugely popular English conversation classes, as well as the International Lunch and ‘Your Rights At Work’ programs offered through the Compass Drop-In Centre.

I will work to create more volunteering opportunities for international students, as well as increased representation on university committees and consultation groups.

Having already served as International Students Officer this year, I am confident that I possess the experience necessary to fight for the interests of RMIT’s international community.

With your support, I will work hard to support and represent international students at RMIT and ensure we are given a ‘fair go’.

Vote 1 CONNECT!

Sentosa Mam (Stand Up!)

Vote 1 CONNECT!

International Students Officer Jingyi Rong (CONNECT)

I’m also passionate about community.

I think it’s important to bring students together to foster a greater sense of campus community, to discuss our ideas and to allow for greater collaboration.

I’m also keen environmentalist. I think the environment and our welfare are intimately connected and that it’s important to take a consciousness and concern about the environment into all aspects of our work and activism.

Transport concession continues to be an issue for international students, with Victoria being the only state not to offer adequate and reasonable concession for international students. I will work with representatives from across Victoria to lobby the State Government for legitimate international student concessions - it’s time we were treated fairly!

The International Department is one of RUSU’s most important and active departments.

RMIT University Student Union Annual Elections 2014

Hey! My name’s Sentosa and I’m a Cambodia international student beginning a course in Arts, Design & Architecture. Stand Up! is a great team of students. A policy close to our hearts is opposing the financial exploitation of international students. We think its appalling that the government and the university administration treats international students as cash cows.

The exorbitant tuition fees and high cost of living in Australia makes the lives of international students very difficult.

Many international students have come

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Statements from families that have made huge sacrifices to raise the money for course, and in Australia live in poverty working underpaid jobs.

Vote for me because I will campaign for equality between domestic and international students and will run a campaign for international student concession cards. I see the denial of travel concession cards to international students as discrimination. This has been fought for and won in every other state bar Victoria. If we ran a determined campaign of international students with the support and solidarity of local students, I think we could win.

I also want to raise greater awareness amongst international students about their rights at work. I have also been active in the campaign against government funding cuts to Universities proposed by the Abbott government.

I think international students have an interest in standing with local students as they fight to stop fee hikes. Vote for me for an international student voice that will stand up against racism and defend our rights!

Postgraduate Students Officer Shoukat Shah (Stand Up!)

Training Scheme, and the decision to allow universities to charge PhD and Masters by Research students HELP fees for the first time, that is the greatest attack on the post grad community.

I’m committed to speaking out against these changes and with CAPA, the post-grad equivalent of the National Union of Students in the campaign to block the budget.

HOAC, Paul (CONNECT)

In 2015 I want to deliver more opportunities for the postgrad students of RMIT. More chances to network, better support services, and serious recognition of our contribution to the RMIT community.

Recent years have seen great progress for research students. The establishment of a Higher Degree by Research Association, the appointment of a HDR-specific Student Rights Officer, plus a variety of events targeting postgraduate students.

In 2015, I want to expand on this great work by improving representation of both coursework and HDR postgraduates across RMIT and at every level.

2015 offers a myriad of possibilities and with your support we can make them a reality!

Vote 1 CONNECT!

Hi! My names Shoukat. I’m a Pakistani international student that’s starting my masters in Info systems security. Post grads have been hit hard by the Federal budget. I’m concerned about the equity ‘grants’ that students will foot the bill for themselves, as well as the 6 per cent interest rate which will slam students who continue on to postgraduate study, pricing them out of HELP repayment for several years as their debt grows. But it is the cut of $173 million to the Research

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Womyn’s Officer Abena Dove (CONNECT)

Womyn’s is an active and energetic department of the Student Union. I plan on continuing to build the current success of the department and encourage RMIT womyn to remain engaged.

As Womyn’s Officer I will continue to demand improved representation of all women across RMIT, through strong affirmative action, organising education and information programs, and running campaigns to empower womyn. The Womyn’s Room is a vibrant space in the university, and I will continue this in 2015 with even more social events and educational workshops.

The Womyn of RMIT deserve quality representation and a strong voice, and in 2015, I am here to deliver.

Having served as Education Officer in 2014, I am experienced in engaging students on campus and would love the opportunity to give womyn a strong voice as your Womyn’s Officer in 2015.

Vote 1 CONNECT!

Emma Slater (Stand Up!)

My name is Emma, I’m a first-year International Studies student, and the vice-president of the RMIT Greens. I’m a passionate feminist who sees the better representation of women as a highest priority for the RMIT Student Union.

Women will be disproportionately affected by the current attacks on students. On average women earn 17.1% less compared to their male counterparts, and thus will overall be harder hit by the adjustments to student loan paybacks. This is deplorable. The RMIT Student Union should be doing all that it can to fight for women’s rights in university and more broadly in society.

RMIT University Student Union Annual Elections 2014

Activities Officer Ali Alkhelaifi (Stand Up!)

Hi! My name’s Ali. I’m an international student from Kuwait studying mechanical engineering. RUSU has a central role to play in creating a vibrant campus life. However, I think RUSU’s current focus on parties, BBQ’s and beer is way too narrow. Firstly, for the many Muslim students on campus, the lack of halal sausages means that we are excluded from partaking in the BBQ. This is something that could easily be changed and be a nice respectful thing to do. However, to be truly inclusive of all students I think RUSU needs to diversify the activities that it holds.

I have also participated in the many protests held in Melbourne against the recent horrific bombing of Gaza. It was inspiring to stand with local and international students as we voiced our support for human rights. I think that the activities department could coordinate with other departments to strengthen these campaigns, running fundraisers and cultural events that raise awareness about these important issues.

Tracey Tran (CONNECT)

Nothing compares to a RUSU party.

In 2015, I will continue the success of favourites such as the Orientation Welcome Bash and End of Exams Parties, as well as a fair serving of pub crawls, formal balls, and just general mayhem.

But the Activities Department isn’t just parties. If elected, I will build on the success of the Activities Collective, and get students more engaged in organising a variety of exciting oncampus events that integrate with our Clubs & Societies in a way that gets more and more people involved.

I have been volunteering with RUSU at the weekly Chill’N’Grills and I’ve got some great ideas to get students more involved and engaged with their Student Union next year.

If you want a massive, action packed, funfilled 2015, then all you have to do is…

Vote 1 CONNECT!

Environment Officer Gabriel Brady (CONNECT)

RMIT is a world leading institution of technology and design. We should be at the forefront of waste minimisation, recycling, and sustainable management.

If elected, I will lobby the University to improve its practices, and inform students about environmental issues.

RMIT can (and should!) set an example for its students and for other universities.

I will work to improve the Environment Collective and ensure that we offer more volunteer opportunities to RMIT students. I will continue the Furniture Cage program, which not only is a great recycling program, but also gives away free furniture!

Loukas Kakogiannis (Stand Up!)

Hi, I’m Loukas, a first year student studying International Studies, running for the Environment Office.

This year I fulfilled the role of Secretary for the RMIT Greens group, and took a lead role in organising events which we put on throughout the year, including the hugely successful speech night with Adam Bandt, the Deputy Leader of the Australian Greens and Member of Parliament for the federal seat of Melbourne. The club also encourages student activism, and attend student rallies and broader political protests.

I’m a strong supporter of the Greens affiliated group ‘Greening RMIT’, a group of urban gardeners planning to recreate the city campus’ bland expanses of concrete into green spaces and urban gardens. This is the kind of initiative which should be supported by an effective Environment Office.

Another initiative I would like to put weight behind is the Fossil-Free RMIT campaign. RMIT as a leading progressive university should be prioritising divestment from fossil fuels, but this requires a strong grassroots campaign by students to press for the principles of sustainability not just to be taught, but to be enacted at the university.

My passion for sustainability, coupled with my previous experience as RUSU’s General Secretary, puts me in good stead to see the Environment Department thrive in 2015.

Vote 1 CONNECT!

RMIT University Student Union Annual Elections 2014

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Statements Clubs and Societies Officer

Cameron Petrie (CONNECT)

or services are simply not fair, and I will stand up for TAFE students to give them a voice throughout the University.

University isn’t just the classroom, it’s a life experience!

Often TAFE students are left behind forgotten by the decision-makers and budget-balancers. As your TAFE Officer I will provide strong, vocal representation and continue to stand up to make sure TAFE students are heard throughout the University. I will work to deliver a campus that actively engages TAFE students in social events, volunteering opportunities and regular free food.

Jack Todaro (Stand Up!)

My name is Jack, I’m a first-year International Studies student and on the executive of RMIT Socialist Alternative, a political activist club affiliated to the student union. As your Clubs and Societies officer I aim to represent and advocate for all of the student union affiliated clubs, including the political clubs, which are under attack by the Abbott government through its budget attacks on students and student union funding. And with two-thirds of students already living below the poverty line, fewer and fewer students will have time to engage in student life alongside working long hours just to support themselves.

As your Clubs and Societies officer it is my priority that we do not allow for the degradation of student life, and that we improve the ability of clubs to organise on campus. I am for less corporate spaces on campus and more spaces for clubs and societies to use freely. I am for a more efficient and accessible room and space booking system, and greater cooperation between clubs and societies and the student union. I will help to run events and opportunities for clubs and societies to promote themselves and recruit new members.

If you want your club or society to have the best resources available to it, vote Stand Up!

Clubs are a fantastic way to relax, unwind and enjoy a life outside of your study. As your Clubs and Societies Officer, I will work to reform Clubs and Societies funding to ensure that there are more social events and better facilities available to student Clubs.

Vote 1 CONNECT!

Henri Eberhard (Stand Up!)

Clubs are also a great way to gain leadership experience in a nonclassroom environment. If elected, I will ensure that leadership qualifications for students are more accessible.

In 2015, I will streamline the processes involved with setting up, running and engaging with clubs, with more services online so that involvement is just a few clicks away.

I believe that I have the know-how, zeal and integrity to perform this task. I look forward to serving you in 2015.

Vote 1 CONNECT!

TAFE Officer Carl Melkonian (CONNECT)

In today’s climate, strong representation of TAFE students is crucial. Severe cuts to TAFE have left students feeling the pinch. Increases in fees with no tangible increase to quality

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As TAFE Officer in 2015 I will ensure campus life is the best it can be for the TAFE students of RMIT.

Hi guys! I’m Henri. I’m a visual arts student. I love to paint, sculpt and draw. I’m also passionate about quality accessible education. TAFE courses have gotten incredibly expensive since the Baillieu Liberal government slashed $300 million in government funding (protesting the TAFE funding cuts is something our team has been active around).

With fees at RMIT skyrocketing for some courses, many poorer students have had to drop out of courses or are really struggling to make ends meet. It shouldn’t have to be like this. As TAFE rep I will work with the staff union in the campaigns to boost public funding for TAFE. I will also campaign to pressure RMIT to reduce the cost of its courses.

Another key area of concern for students is the need to increase student welfare.

Government income support for students is currently below the Henderson poverty line. Not satisfied Abbott wants to cut even further into student income support.

As TAFE officer I would stand up to Abbott and be a strong voice for TAFE students on campus.

RMIT University Student Union Annual Elections 2014

City Coordinator Aman Choudhry (CONNECT)

University should be more than just turning up to class and going home.

A vibrant campus life is crucial in ensuring the best university experience possible. I want to make everyone feel at home on campus, and continue to encourage RMIT students to engage in activities and social events.

Providing more volunteering opportunities and jobs on campus will be a key focus as your City Coordinator.

I will continue to deliver free food on campus, and lobby the University to do more to make our facilities and classrooms accessible for everyone.

You should enjoy your experience at University and I will work hard to make sure every single student gets the most out of their time at RMIT. Let’s work together and make 2015 a great year!

Vote 1 CONNECT!

Aran Mylvaganam (Stand Up!)

Council which has put a spotlight on the plight of Tamil refugees and provided essential welfare support to asylum seekers living in the community.

I think a critical role that student unions have played historically has been to spearhead progressive campaigns on our campus and in our community for social justice – whether that’s the struggle against the Vietnam war, the fight to isolate the apartheid regime in South Africa or standing up for Aboriginal land rights.

Unfortunately RUSU has been very silent on key questions of injustice in our society today, in particular the suffering of refugees in Australia’s detention centres on and off shore and Israel’s brutal war on the Palestinian people. This is something I am committed to changing if I am elected.

In between study and activism I work as an industrial organiser for the Financial Services Union, fighting to defend the wages and conditions of our members. I am a committed unionist that understands the importance of unions that are willing to stand up to management. When it comes to students that means challenging our own administration which often make decisions that prioritise profit margins over our learning experience. With the city campus set to become a major construction site, students will need a strong voice on campus to protect our access to study and recreational spaces & to ensure that our health and safety isn’t compromised.

City Representative

RULC is committed to create a different RMIT atmosphere, making everyone feel welcome and included in everyday student life. We believe in making a difference to the processes in which RUSU makes their decisions and would like to work towards creating a stronger campus culture.

Shailesh Shrestha (Stand Up!)

Hi! My name’s Shailesh. I’m a electrical engineering student. I’ve been taking an active stand this year against Abbott’s budget with the rest of the Stand Up! team.

Defending student space will be a key concern of mine with the beginning of construction in 2015. We’re in for a difficult few years. We need people in the union that aren’t afraid to challenge the uni administrations decisions and want to speak up for our rights.

I think representatives of students have responsibilities to be active in assuring the future of education, to be responsibly alert to injustice and to hold activities and events that create opportunities for getting together in health, music and fun.

That’s the approach I’ll be taking to being the City Representative if you elect me.

Paul Sangha (CONNECT)

Anthony D’Angelo (RULC) Hi! My name’s Aran Myvalganam.

I’m a Sri Lankan Tamil refugee and have been in Australia since fleeing my homeland in the 1990’s. For over a decade I have campaigned against the government’s inhumane and racist policies towards asylum seekers. A few years ago I founded the Tamil Refugee

(No photo supplied).

If elected to city representative and I will work towards opening up more the university to all students, such as the rooftop in building 80 and opening it up to clubs and societies. I would also like to fight to repeal the universities decision to ban smoking in open university spaces.

RMIT University Student Union Annual Elections 2014

With the city right on our doorstep, campus life and social opportunities at the City campus are often overlooked. I want to change that by better engaging students with events that the Student

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Statements Union has to offer, and by expanding the volunteer program. I also want to give students the chance to develop their skills and have them professionally recognised.

I will ensure RUSU offers more free food and flexible student services.

As your City Representative, I will work hard to gain access to University boards and committees so that I can lobby for recorded lectures, accessibility and improved facilities on campus.

My experience as a General Representative in RUSU this year has given me invaluable insight into how to get things done. I am certain I have the experience and enthusiasm necessary to represent you in 2015.

Vote 1 CONNECT!

General Representatives (Five positions available) Benjamin Jenkins (RULC) (No photo supplied).

As a current RMIT student I will ensure that the rights of students will be enforced throughout all RMIT campuses. I will endeavour to work with the other representatives on the council to create a better RMIT and ensure to get the best value for money to get direct benefits out of the Student Services and Amenities Fee. RULC is committed to create a different RMIT atmosphere, making everyone feel welcome and included in everyday student life. We believe in making a difference to the processes in which RUSU makes their decisions and would like to work towards creating a stronger campus culture.

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Jack Todaro (Stand Up!)

to ensure every aspect of RUSU’s operations is as efficient and effective as possible.

Vote 1 CONNECT!

Mingren Lu (CONNECT)

As a general representative I aim to represent the interests of RMIT students. More than that, I want to be part of the project of rebuilding student unionism on the foundations of activism and politics, for the ultimate aim of having a powerful student union that can properly fight for and defend its members and their rights and interests when they come under attack.

More than ever we need a student union that is willing to stand up to the vicious 2014 budget attacks and do everything it can to rebuild a movement capable of challenging the government’s agenda. Students have shown through history, time and time again, that they are a force to be reckoned with. We need our student union to take a lead in rebuilding this fundamental aspect of fighting for our rights.

Umer Tahir (CONNECT)

Campus life is one of the most important parts of university. At university you make friends you will keep for the rest of your life. As a General Representative I will support student life on campus by helping out wherever I am needed and doing the little jobs that are so important. I believe in fair and transparent student representation and will work hard to make the biggest possible impact for students. My focus will be on supporting the Student Union Council

Students shouldn’t have to struggle to get by, financially or socially. For students to achieve their best they need to be provided with the best services, resources, and support right from day one.

If elected, I will lobby for an improved orientation program for commencing students that helps them to adjust to university life, make friends, and learn their way around the university. RMIT has the potential to engage with students both academically and socially, and we need to work together to improve both these aspects of university life.

VOTE 1 CONNECT!

Benjamin Solah (Stand Up!)

Hi, my name is Benjamin, I’m a thirdyear Creative Writing student that would love to be a representative in the RMIT Student Union because I’m passionate about fighting for student’s rights and representing students against attacks from governments and our own university.

I have been active in the campaign to stop Abbott’s attacks on students through the budget and think all students deserve access to higher education regardless of their economic or other

RMIT University Student Union Annual Elections 2014

circumstances. I think it’s important for the campaign to be active and visible in order to pressure the government.

I am also not tied to any of the major political parties that have proposed cuts to student funding, meaning I will be an independent and critical part of the Student Council.

With the government’s recent attacks on higher education and university fees, now more than ever students need a confident and stable Student Union to support and fight for them through a period of great change.

Scott Stewart (Stand Up!)

representatives within the student union to build communities on campus that welcome international students and provide opportunities to meet new people and socialise. A vote for me and Connect is a vote for a more welcoming and inclusive RMIT community.

VOTE 1 CONNECT!

Hayden Hutchings (RULC)

Himasha Fonseka (CONNECT)

As a general representation I will attempt to address the deficit of student activities at RMIT to create a more vibrant environment. Working with the RULC team we believe we can better target spending on student activities that better benefit the largest number of RMIT students. By making changes RMIT students can build a culture at RMIT.

James Michelmore (CONNECT)

Over the past two years as President of RUSU I have seen the organisation grow and prosper, securing significant funding to deliver a rewarding volunteer program, improved support for clubs and societies, and a multitude of free on-campus events and parties.

During my time at RMIT I have represented my peers at almost every level of university administration, from SSCCs right through to University Council. With your support, I would be honoured to again serve the students of RMIT University into 2015. If elected, I will provide advice and guidance to the elected Student Union Council as it continues the great work of recent years.

Hi! I’m Scott. I’m a TAFE student at RMIT studying a diploma of lab technology. I think it’s important that RUSU has more than one token TAFE student representative on the students’ council. TAFE students face enormous financial stress after the slashing of public funding. We need students on the council that will look out for our interests and convince the broader student body to stand in solidarity with TAFE students & take up our concerns.

Yang Liu (CONNECT)

I hope to represent RMIT’s international community on the RUSU SUC and the broader committees within RMIT University.

International students are a large and significant part of the RMIT community and therefore deserve a strong voice within it. I want to make sure that we are not ignored and that the important issues affecting us are recognised and addressed.

If elected I will work to ensure issues such as transport concession cards for international students are raised whenever and wherever possible. I want to assist other elected student

RMIT University Student Union Annual Elections 2014

RUSU is here for you, run for students, by students. This year I have been heavily involved in all aspects of RUSU, and next year I will build on and improve everything we have achieved this year. I have a passion for student advocacy and campus life. In 2015 I will bring you the best representation possible and fight for an improved university experience for all students.

I will maintain a transparent and accountable union that provides quality representation and support.

In recent years, RUSU has focussed on campus engagement, making sure that your time at university is as enjoyable as possible and maximising the amount of quality representation that is available to students as they navigate their way through university.

So far, our team has pioneered and grown on quality programs to the RMIT experience, but we have a lot more that we want to get done: RUSU can do great things, and with your help we can make RMIT bigger and better than ever as we progress into the future. Our team is not only experienced, but ready to work for you.

Vote 1 CONNECT!

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Statements Nicole Abiad (RULC) (No photo supplied).

I am dedicated to creating a voice for all RMIT students to help create a positive difference on campus.

RULC is committed to create a different RMIT atmosphere, making everyone feel welcome and included in everyday student life. We believe in making a difference to the processes in which RUSU makes their decisions and would like to work towards creating a stronger campus culture.

Anthony D’Angelo (RULC) (No photo supplied).

As a current RMIT student I will ensure that the rights of students will be enforced throughout all RMIT campuses. I will endeavour to work with the other representatives on the council to create a better RMIT and ensure to get the best value for money to get direct benefits out of the Student Services and Amenities Fee. RULC is committed to create a different RMIT atmosphere, making everyone feel welcome and included in everyday student life. We believe in making a difference to the processes in which RUSU makes their decisions and would like to work towards creating a stronger campus culture.

Luke Hocking (Stand Up!)

Alright, listen up! The student union needs to be a fighting force for the rights of students, youth and all of society. And without activists in their ranks, this simply will not happen. Without independent representatives that are not tied to any of the major parties, the will of the union to get out and fight for what students need and deserve will wither.

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But don’t despair. There are candidates, like me, who are activists.

Candidates who care about all students’ rights, and the right of future students to attend university. And beyond that, candidates who care about all the injustices in the world. I have been a part of the fight for the rights of the Palestinians in Gaza, and of refugees in Australian detention centres. I have marched against the attacks on workers, youth and the poor that plague this Liberal government’s budget.

It is the duty of all students to come together and defend all those who need defending, and the RMIT Student Union must be at the fore. So allow me to become your delegate, and I will stand up for you and for all. Vote for Luke this election.

Clinton Elliott (CONNECT)

Volunteering with the student union and working for you as Activities Officer in 2014 has given me great insight into the wants and needs of the student body at large. It allowed me to experience an understanding of the processes behind running an organisation for the benefits of all students, and has ultimately left me with a passion to continue to strive for a better student experience for all.

If elected, I will work hard to ensure all RUSU activities and services are advertised widely to all RMIT students.

Vote for me, and let’s make RMIT a fun and communal environment for all!

Vote 1 CONNECT!

Natalie Acreman (Stand Up!)

Hi, my name’s Natalie. I’m a first year Creative Writing student. As a General Representative, not tied to any major political parties, I will bring a much needed activist voice into the student council. I’m dedicated to building a strong fighting union that’s ready and willing to defend the rights and livelihoods of its cohort.

I’m also unafraid to bring in wider world politics into the student council.

I’ve been heavily involved in building the successful student campaign this year against the Liberal Governments attacks in the Federal Budget as well as other campaigns such as the fight for Equal Marriage Rights, Freedom for Palestine and rights for Refugees.

It’s time for student unions to return to their former glory as fighting bodies, and the best way to achieve that is to have dedicated activists in the union.

Taylor Mather (CONNECT)

Over the past year I have been heavily involved in representing students and helping out wherever I can. I currently represent TAFE and Associate Degree students on the Student Experience Advisory Committee, and am a strong advocate for spending the SSAF on the things that students want. With your support, I want to take this to the next level and be your voice as a General Representative.

RMIT University Student Union Annual Elections 2014

If elected, I will be able to use my knowledge and skills in a positive and beneficial way, enhancing the experience of the student body and giving a fair and equal voice for all!

Vote 1 CONNECT!

NUS Delegates

needs to be completely removed from any major political parties.

It is the role and duty of activists such as myself within the union to further the campaign and ensure its success as we proceed full steam ahead into 2015.

Jack Todaro (Stand Up!)

(Seven positions available) Anthony D’Angelo (RULC) (No photo supplied).

As NUS delegate I will represent RMIT students fairly at the National Union of Students conferences. To provide the best outcomes for RMIT students, to help assist students with their financial situations. Make sure that all students get the best value for money out of there student experience and get direct benefits out of their Student Services and Amenities Fee. RULC is committed to create a different RMIT atmosphere, making everyone feel welcome and included in everyday student life. We believe in making a difference to the processes in which RUSU makes their decisions and would like to work towards creating a stronger campus culture.

The National Union of Students should be a body that fights for students’ rights, first and foremost. This is especially relevant in a time when the Abbott government’s budget attacks will only further attempt to cripple our student organisations and their ability to fight for their members, not just around our rights to education but around welfare, healthcare and the like. As an NUS delegate I will fight for a union that fights for its members in such a way, and fight for a union that is relevant to and involves students.

Ariel Zohar (CONNECT)

Only with broad representation can the voice of all students be accurately represented. The NUS has students from all walks of life, all corners of Australia, all creeds and colours and together, we can continue the good work that has been done in recent years to ensure the that rights of Australian students continue to be protected. The NUS is the only organization nationally that is able to credibly represent students to not only all levels of government, but also within the media to ensure that the voice of students are heard, and they are adequately protected.

Together, we can continue to make sure that students receive the best representation possible.

Vote 1 CONNECT!

Benjamin Jenkins (RULC) (No photo supplied).

Natalie Acreman (Stand Up!)

The National Union of Students is the peak representative body of students nationwide. It has spearheaded the campaigns against the attacks on higher education, no matter what government has been responsible.

The reason for the success of the education campaign is that it has been led by an independent activist. To be able to perform more effectively it

Cameron Petrie (CONNECT)

If elected as an RMIT NUS delegate for the year of 2014 I will work to represent your interests. I have had a long involvement with the RUSU and hope to transfer the knowledge and skills that I have gained to benefit NUS. I have attended both NUS National Conference and the mid-year Education Conference this year and appreciate both the value of these conferences and the work that NUS does more broadly. I will work hard to ensure that the voice of RMIT is heard at NUS!

As NUS delegate I will represent RMIT students fairly at the National Union of Students conferences. To provide the best outcomes for RMIT students, to help assist students with their financial situations. Make sure that all students get the best value for money out of there student experience and get direct benefits out of their Student Services and Amenities Fee. RULC is committed to create a different RMIT atmosphere, making everyone feel welcome and included in everyday student life. We believe in making a difference to the processes in which RUSU makes their decisions and would like to work towards creating a stronger campus culture.

Vote 1 CONNECT!

RMIT University Student Union Annual Elections 2014

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Statements Himasha Fonseka (CONNECT)

toeing of the major parties, and vote for someone who will always take the fight further. Vote for me: Luke.

Alexandra Marsh (Stand Up!)

The National Union of Students (NUS) is the peak representative body of all students in Australia. NUS fulfills vital roles that RUSU by itself, could not achieve. NUS not only acts as a representative body, but also fulfills vital lobby roles ensuring that the wants and needs of students are raised with the highest levels of government in Australia. RMIT has a proud tradition of involvement within the NUS, and via this body once elected I look forward to being able to help RMIT ensure that the wants and needs of our students are heard within this peak national representative body.

Vote 1 CONNECT!

Luke Hocking (Stand Up!)

Alright, listen up! The National Union of Students is a big deal. This year they’ve shown their power by organising some of the biggest student protests in over a decade. If you ask me, this is fantastic.

We absolutely need to see more of this, and if you elect me to the union, then I will stand with the other activists there to continue this energy on into further demands, until university education is available to all and no student lacks for anything that they need and deserve.

It is the responsibility of every student to come together and stand up for their peers and those that will come after us.

For them and for us, make your vote count this election. Ignore the line-

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Hello. I’m a first year student studying Criminal Justice. This year we’ve witnessed Tony Abbott go for the jugular.

He wants to push back the rights & living conditions of everyone that isn’t part of the wealthy 1%. Students are in the firing line as are the unemployed, pensioners and anyone that uses public healthcare.

Thankfully, students haven’t taken the attacks lying down. I fully support the campaign that the NUS Education officer has waged against the deregulation of uni fees and have done my bit to help organise the street protests. I think we need to continue to take a stand against Abbott into 2015. NUS also needs to throw its support behind campaigns to push back this nasty budget and unite with all you are standing up for a fairer more equitable society.

I’m also passionate about standing up to all forms of oppression in our society. I think NUS should be outspoken in combating racism, sexism and homophobia.

Christopher Di Pasquale (Stand Up!)

The National Union of Students is the peak representative body for students.

That means it’s prime role is to provide a political voice for students – to combat the governments attacks on our rights

and to take the fight up to the university administrations when they implement fee hikes or attempt to silence students when they organize for their rights on their campus. I think to do this effectively, NUS needs delegates that are independent of the major parties and not afraid to rock the boat.

I’ve been a socialist for the past decade and actively involved in many campaigns from standing in solidarity with the Palestinians to LGBTIQ movements for equality to campus based struggles to protect the Disability Liaison Unit. I think I’d make strong contribution to the debates within our national union.

Benjamin Solah (Stand Up!)

As an NUS delegate, I will apart of arguing that NUS needs to continue to successful campaign against Abbott’s budget attacks and that NUS as a fighting, public activist body is the key to growing the wider student movement and increasing the profile of the representative body for students around the country, and that as an activist body, not for a body that becomes like a service provider or structured like a corporation.

Yasmine Lintvelt (CONNECT)

Representation of students on a National level is more important in Australia today than ever before, with Abbott’s attacks on higher education being a topic of particular focus. The National Union of Students in recent years has done enormous amounts of good, and they

RMIT University Student Union Annual Elections 2014

continue to fight for student’s rights every day. As an elected representive for RMIT within this national body, I can continue for argue for the interests of RMIT students on a national stage, and ensure that the NUS continues to lobby the highest levels of government in Australia not only to ensure they continue to look out for the rights and needs of students, but also to ensure that these levels of representation continue to evolve in line with the changing wants and needs of students on our campus.

Vote 1 CONNECT!

Yang Liu (CONNECT)

During my time at RMIT thus far, I have been lucky enough to get involved in the quality programs that NUS has implemented and have witnessed the good that can come from being involved in this national organisation. When elected an NUS delegate at this year’s annual RUSU elections I look forward to having the opportunity to continue to argue for the rights of RMIT students, and ensure that NUS continues to represent Australian students to the high quality that it has in previous years. Only through teamwork and quality representation can we continue to improve the lives of all students nationwide.

Vote 1 CONNECT!

Jun Yan Chen (CONNECT)

something that I support strongly. If elected as your delegate to the NUS, I will advocate for the continuation and expansion of the current campaign for international student transport concession. All students deserve to be valued and treated fairly, and Victorian international students are currently discriminated against by unfair transport fares. Support me, and support international students!

the university to give ample coverage to all those who contribute to the mag.

Vote 1 CONNECT!

VOTE 1 CONNECT.

Catalyst Editors

Christopher Di Pasquale, Natalie Acreman & Benjamin Solah (Stand Up!)

Richard Ferguson, Finbar O’Mallon & Rushani Seneviratne-Epa (CONNECT)

We hope you can help us realise this vision.

As Catalyst editors, our team of Creative Writing students and activists plan to return Catalyst to the traditions of student publications. We study Creative Writing and Professional Writing & Editing.

The editors of Catalyst in 2014 redesigned not just the magazine itself, but its content and ethos.

Our plans for 2015 are not to radically change Catalyst, but to continue on with the success whilst developing content focussed for online. We hope to strongly build not just the magazine’s online presence, but also its scope, with strong content unique to the website.

This would include more photography, video, and blogs covering music, film and politics. We would also continue with the well-received Cataclysm podcast.

This is not just content for the sake of content: we want to give all the students at RMIT a chance to improve and build upon their work, to give them a voice.

Our aim, with the podcast and expanded website, is to build Catalyst across different media platforms.

The National Union of Students (NUS) exists to defend the principles of a fair go for all students, and this is

All three of us have previously worked with Catalyst and sat on this year’s Editorial Committee. We have a clear vision, backed by our extensive experience both inside and outside the magazine.

We want to do more to involve students across campus, but we also want to expand our audience outside

RMIT University Student Union Annual Elections 2014

Benjamin Solah is a third year Creative Writing student, is the poetry editor for Right Now, the Director of Melbourne Spoken Word, whilst also being widely published including Overland, The Emerging Writer and Catalyst as well as performed at many venues around Melbourne including the National Gallery of Victoria.

Natalie Acreman is a first year Creative Writing student as well as being a writer and performance poet. She is dedicated to encouraging emerging writers to discover the power of words both personally and politically.

Chris di Pasquale is a Professional Writing and Editing student and socialist activist, whose been published in Red Flag, Overland and worked on The Lifted Brow, visible ink and co-edited the 2014 RUSU Orientation Handbook. He thinks Catalyst, and writing generally, should be about more than just adding gems to my sparkling CV, but rather it should be used to facilitate insightful discussion about issues that matter.

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We want to be unafraid to criticize governments and university administrations, acting as an independent voice for students. Student publications should be unafraid to be controversial and radical and intervene into debates around campus.

We plan to run more articles on issues that concern students, including student rights, student campaigns as well as social justice causes and standing up for student’s interests on campus against changes to university makes that harm or hinder student’s access to education and student spaces.

We also want to maintain Catalyst’s space for Creative work, like prose, poetry and photography and new styles of journalism and creative essay, as well as expand into spoken word.

Annual

Elections

2014