Acknowledgement of Country
Honi Soit is produced, published and distributed on the stolen land of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. Sovereignty was never ceded. For over 235 years, First Nations peoples in so-called ‘Australia’ have continued to suffer under the destructive effects of invasion, genocide, and colonisation. As editors of this paper, we acknowledge that we are each living, writing, and working on stolen Gadigal, Wangal and Bidjigal land, and are beneficiaries of ongoing colonial dispossession.
We acknowledge that the University of Sydney is an inherently colonial institution which is not only physically built on stolen land, but also ideologically upholds a devaluing of Indigenous systems of knowledge and systematically excludes First Nations peoples. We recognise our complicity in such systems. We strive to remain conscious of, and actively resist and unlearn, colonial ideologies and biases, both our own and those perpetuated by the University and other institutions like it.
As a student newspaper, we pledge to stand in solidarity with both First Nations movements and all Indigenous struggles toward decolonisation worldwide, endeavouring to platform Indigenous voices. Honi is committed to countering the exclusion, censoring, and silencing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in mainstream media.
Always was, and always will be Aboriginal land.
Editors
Huw Bradshaw
Valerie Chidiac
Aidan Elwig Pollock
Victoria Gillespie
Ariana Haghighi
Sandra Kallarakkal
Zeina Khochaiche
Simone Maddison
Angus McGregor
Amelia Raines
Editorial
Come out ye Green and Reds! Election is upon us yet again. Those veterans of student elections may note many staples and stock characters of SRC elections this year. SAlt and Grassroots are promising bold action and uncompromising principles, Labor are crying out to stay relevant, Liberals are trying to “save” the SRC from activism (itself) and the usual mishmash of tickets representing different Faculties are trying to break in.
SRC Explained 3
8–11 12–15 16–23
4 6–7 OB Reports Puzzles and Comedy President Honi Soit NUS SRC Council
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Huw Bradshaw
Victoria Gillespie
Sandra Kallarakkal
Cover Art Artists
Huw Bradshaw
Student interest in activism for Palestine has provided the greatest opportunity for the electorate to grow. Multiple tickets are harnessing that message and the legacy of the encampment combined with the recent SGM may highlight the importance of engagement for more on campus.
Whether turnout or engagement with student politics will improve remains to be seen. While increasing engagement is always something candidates love to harp on about, the bread and butter remains the same: social media accounts, messaging, and Eastern Avenue leafleting. Students beware!
The three-way presidential contest — the first in 7 years — is worthy of considerable attention. Labor has failed twice to beat Grassroots in the last five years but a choice between two leftwing candidates meant conservative voters may have come out in less numbers.
Bryson Constable’s successful USU campaign demonstrated that a mobilisation of college and conservative students is possible. Even if Thomas Thorpe does not win, his ability to impact preferences poses a real threat to a left-wing SRC.
The President controls the budget for collectives, leads campaigns, and is the voice for students on multiple University committees. This is not an office the left can afford to lose.
The burden is on the left-wing factions to defend the achievements of the SRC and convey the importance of activism to every student, not just the ones already involved. Contents
The Crab Problem
ISSN: 2207-5593. This edition was published on Wednesday 11 September 2024. Disclaimer: Honi Soit is published by the Students’ Representative Council, University of Sydney, Level 1 Wentworth Building, City Road, University of Sydney NSW 2006. The SRC’s operation costs, space and administrative support are financed by the University of Sydney. Honi Soit is printed under the auspices of the SRC’s Directors of Student Publications (DSP): Dustin Dao, Jasmine Donnelly, Lia Perkins, Tiger Perkins, Victor Zhang, Lucinda Zheng. All expressions are published on the basis that they are not to be regarded as the opinions of the SRC unless specifically stated. The Council accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of any of the opinions or information contained within this newspaper, nor does it endorse any of the advertisements and insertions.
What is this all about?
What is the SRC?
The Student Representative Council (SRC) is a key student representative body at the University of Sydney. The body is funded by Student Services and Amenities Fees (SSAF) and provides a variety of services for students which are accessible to all undergraduates at the University.
Free casework services are accessible for students to seek support including academic appeals, accessing Centrelink, and housing advice.
The SRC advocates for students on a platform independent of management. This means they advocate for change through activism and protest, and in student advocacy on Academic Board
meetings. They push for change that impacts students – such as fighting against course cuts, advocating for functional staff-student ratios, and pushing through change such as fiveday simple extensions.
The SRC is also composed of a variety of Collectives. Office Bearers are employed by the SRC to govern a Collective. Examples of SRC Collectives include the Autonomous Collective Against Racism (ACAR), Disabilities Collective (DisCo) Women’s Collective (WoCo), Education Collective, amongst many more.
The SRC’s sexiest service is printing, funding and paying the editors of Honi Soit
What are you voting for?
In this election, there will be no option to vote for Editors of Honi Soit due to the provisional election of the uncontested team.
This year, the President election will be contested in a three-way race — for the first time in 7 years. Contending for the top spot is Angus Fisher (NLS), Thomas Thorpe (Liberals) and Rand Khatib (Grassroots). Stakes are high this year with Khatib vying to maintain the last 5 years of Grassroots presidencies, Fisher seeking to bring any form of stability to NLS power and Thorpe attempting to bring rain to a 26-year dry spell of a Liberal presidency.
It is important not to discount this time of year. These are the peak representative voices that fight for issues pertaining to your education, your accessibility to resources and your student interest.
This election, you will vote for: SRC President
Elected as an advocate for the student body, leading the team of 5 Executive members and spearheading campus issues.
Representatives to Council Meet monthly to debate and pass motions on student policy. Some councillors get selected to serve on the Executive which manages the SRC budget. Others become Office Bearers.
Delegates to the National Union of Students
Delegates that represent the USyd students at the annual NUS conference. These delegates are factionally aligned, vote on behalf of USyd upon student issues and take part in intercampus and interstate discussions.
Rules and regulations
The rules and regulations covering the SRC are too numerous to count or explain but here are some of the most important ones that students should be aware of when engaging in the election. The full regulations can be accessed here: https://srcusyd.net.au/about/ constitution/.
I. Only currently enrolled University of Sydney undergraduate students can vote in the elections.
II. No voter or candidate may engage in dishonest practices to gain an advantage including but not limited to: bribery, threat, and tampering with ballot papers.
III. No one may campaign in person or online until the start of the designated online and physical campaigning period.
IV. When campaigning, a person may not come into physical contact with another person unless that contact is consensual or engage
in any behaviour that causes any individual to feel intimidated.
V. All official material on social media or distributed in person must clearly display the name and student identification number of the person authorising that material (typically the campaign manager).
VI. All campaigning must be done in English and if any materials contain a language other than English, an easily readable translation must be provided alongside the statement.
VII. No must not interfere or damage in any way the campaigning material of any candidate that is put up in accordance with University policy.
VIII. All questions about the rules and regulations as well as any reports of breaches should be reported to the SRC Election Officer Riki Scalan at the following address: elections@src.usyd.edu.au
VOTING what, when, where, why!!!!!
What: This year voters are able to vote in three separate ballots to elect the SRC President, the Representatives to Council and the delegates to the National Union of Students.
When: Voting will take place at various booths and times around campus from the 24, 25, and 26 September.
Where: SRC voting is only in-person. This year booths will be at held at: Jane Foss Russell: Tuesday–Thursday, 8:45am–5:15pm
Fisher Library: Wednesday & Thursday, 8:45am–5:15pm Manning House: Wednesday, 10:45am–3:15pm Conservatorium of Music: Wednesday, 10:30am–3:30pm Susan Wakil Health Building: Thursday, 10:45am–3:15pm Peter Nicol Russell Building: Thursday, 10:45am–3:15pm
Who are you voting for?
What do these ticket names mean? What are they promising? Many factions like Labor and Liberal deploy masquerading pseudonyms to distract from negative associations with federal politics. But be warned, they want a seat there!
Grassroots are a leftist and Greens-aligned activist group faction on campus. They have enjoyed the presidency since 2019, despite the occasional contest from a Labor faction. They are also running under the branding Free Palestine.
Socialist Alternative (SAlt) often runs under the faction Left Action. Known for their hardlines, Eastern Avenue pamphletting, Red Flag newspaper, and their evergreen rivalry with Solidarity, SAlt are the most present activist group on campus.
International student faction Penta tend to be apolitical, and largely function as an interest group that advocates for services for international students. These include FoodHub, student life and concession cards.
Stand Up are a collection of first year students, seemingly composed of the Student Unity (the Labor
Right faction), after they last ran under the name in 2022.
Colleges are exactly that: college students. Broadly Liberalaligned, they are suspicious of student politics and the Left’s policy to abolish these institutions.
Engineers are only running one ticket this semester. They are broadly a non-political, non-activist group, primarily driven by achieving more STEM representation.
Pharmacists are dedicated to improving the campus experience for healthcare students.
Artistry works in tandem with Student Unity and represents students from the Conservatorium of Music. This year sees only one ticket under this branding.
Impact is the National Labour Students (Labour Left)’s branding of choice. NLS are also running under the branding ‘Hot Girls’.
Save is the moniker masking campus liberals. Critical of SSAF and lovers of the colleges, Save are running 4 tickets this year, each headed by first year students. They are also running under the Liberalaligned branding, Reform
Preferences, scheming…..
SRC elections are conducted through an Optional Preferential Voting system. You can choose to vote above the line, which allows you to vote for a ticket as a whole. Below the line voting means that you may select candidates anywhere on the ticket in any order.
It can be compared to the voting process in Senate elections - wherein it is the choice of an elector to vote for a political faction (or party), or to select individual candidates.
“Breaking Quota, I don’t even know her!”
The voting system means candidates who achieve a quota pass on their surplus votes to the next preference on the ballot. This means that your vote goes to who you ‘preference’ or, in other words, you rank everyone by how much you like them. Your vote counts for your first preference but, if that person isn’t elected, it will count for your second preference, then third preference, and so on.
President’s Report
Harrison Brennan
The President did not submit a report this week.
Education Officers’ Report
Grace Street & Shovan Bhattarai
The Campus Access Policy is still alive and well, even if not enforced by Campus Security. It is still being held over activists’ heads as a threat to our actions, stalling and flyering. We will continue to oppose the CAP for as long as it seeks to quell dissent and scare off students from engaging in protest and campus culture.
Labor has also just announced their plan to cap international students at 270,000 from next year. It is another step in a bigoted sweep of policies that restrict the numbers of international students arriving in Australia, particularly those from non-English speaking countries or those from a lower socioeconomic background. After years of austerity towards higher education from both Labor and Liberal governments, this decision to dramatically reduce international student enrolments without offering alternative funding is highly damaging. Despite six years of continual 6 or 7-figure surpluses, USyd has already flagged hiring freezes and job cuts to its staff in response to this proposed cap. We stand with international students, and we stand with staff against these attacks from the federal government, the opposition government, and from our corporate universities.
We know that management does not care about the SRC or genuine student unionism. They are hosting the ‘Student Voice Australasia’ Symposium later this month, which seems to be the corporate answer to quietening student activists. USyd is happy to fork out the $5000 membership fee and arrange this symposium which falsely advertises its events and network as lead by student leaders. Rather, they have only invited their paid and employed Student Ambassadors, and solely told the President of the USU, Bryson Constable. We reject this corporate consultancy approach to student representation.
We are having a meeting this week and you should message our page to get involved!
Women Officers’ Report
Eliza Crossley & Rand Khatib
Over the past two weeks, we have been planning Reclaim & Resist Week, this week is dedicated to championing feminist liberation in all its forms, through radical sex education, decolonisation and celebrating queerness.
We also, with ACAR held another Feminist Anti-Racist Liberation Library (FALL) event, Resisting Erasure: Writing for Liberation hosted by Palestinian author, poet, human rights lawyer and community organiser Sara Saleh. This is an important fortnightly gathering centring topics like gender, race, class, resistance, incarceration, liberation and justice. We also held another Cheese & Tatreez event, aimed at outreaching to more women and gender-diverse people!
Last week WoCo also attended a vigil for a USyd student who was murdered, the vigil was hosted by the Women and Girls Emergency Centre. We reflected, grieved, and sent our love and our condolences to the victim’s family and friends and for all victims and survivors of domestic violence.
The Women’s Collective demands justice and accountability, pushes for comprehensive preventive measures, and demands support for victim survivors. We must confront and eradicate the deep-rooted misogyny that allows such violence to persist. No one should have to live in fear or lose their life to femicide. We stand in fierce solidarity with all victims and survivors, and we call for immediate and sustained action to end this crisis.
In addition, we also raise concerns about the University of Sydney’s recent Sexual Misconduct Report. With 246 reports of sexual misconduct—a staggering 100% increase from 2022—it’s evident that sexual violence is deeply entrenched on campus, yet the University’s response remains woefully inadequate. Students need real action on sexual violence, including academic considerations for survivors, the elimination of restrictive confidentiality clauses, and a comprehensive approach to addressing sexual violence on campus.
Welfare Officers’ Report
Gerard Buttigieg, Jasmine Al Rawi, Julius Wittforth & Ellie Robertson
The Welfare Officers did not submit a report this week.
Environment Officers’ Report
Madeleine Clark, Thomas Williams & Jordan Anderson
Over 700 students voted in the historic Student General Meeting, demanding that our University cut ties with genocide. This result demonstrated that, without a doubt, students support the struggle for a free Palestine and oppose our University’s complicity in genocide. It also highlighted the success of the months of the Gaza Solidarity Encampment. Students are now aware of our university’s complicity.
The University has been shameless in their response. We are fighting against a genocide that has killed over 180,000 Palestinians in Gaza, but instead of doing anything to stop this, the University has tried to portray our movement as violent and minoritarian. They have not listened to our demands and continue to grow our University’s ties to weapons companies. University management have also instituted the Campus Access Policy, designed to stifle student activism on this campus; a draconian policy that the USyd Enviro Office commits to fighting against.
The school strike we had last week was a continuation of our movement and it was amazing to see other university students and high school students band together. We marched to UTS and back to USyd, marching up to the Quad. This was important to show that all universities have ties to genocide.
Disabilites Officers’ Report
Khahn Tran & Victor Zhang
It has been a grim month where the Federal government has published the pitiful response to the Disabilities Royal Commission where only 13 out of over 200 recommendations were accepted in full. The majority of the $369 million in funding set aside for the response is for employment programs for people with disabilities. We reject the idea that all people with disabilities need to do is to become gainfully employed and compliant. The Commission is a product of years of submission and consultations from 10000 participants. The Federal government’s response is a spit in the face to our community.
The NDIS Amendment Bill was also jointly passed by both Labor and the Liberals where over $14 billion in funding was slashed from the NDIS imposing austerity on people who rely on this critical funding. While we are of the belief that the NDIS is deeply flawed in using private market solutions to provide for people with disabilities and the extreme difficulty it takes for people to get onto the scheme, it cannot be denied that the cuts will negatively impact the lives of those currently do rely on the scheme. These cuts will set disabilities justice back by decades.
In brighter news, last week was a successful Disabilities Inclusion Week. Many thanks to everyone from staff, SUPRA, and the SRC that put the work in to make it happen, including our very own collective members that put on DisCo’s poetry workshop and open mic night.
Khanh and Victor
VOTE!
Voting will be open on September 24, 25 & 26
All Sydney University undergraduate students who are currently enrolled are eligible to vote in the upcoming 2024 SRC Elections. For more info see: bit.ly/SRC-vote
2024 Polling Booth Times and Locations
Can you score higher on the quiz than the SRC President candidates? Answers to be released next week!
1) What % of students at Usyd are low SES?
2) What is the name of the legislation that justified the removal of property and individuals occupying the Quadrangle lawns?
3) What is the name of the private equity tutoring company that the University of Sydney has partnered with?
4) Can you name the current President of the USU Board and three other board directors?
5) What is the role of the new National Student Ombudsman?
6) Who is the Sydney University Branch President of the NTEU?
7) Which two motions were passed at this year’s SGM?
8) What are two subject areas that have experienced course cuts in the last year?
9) How many hours’ notice must protestors provide the University under the Campus Access Policy (2024)?
10) How much SSAF funding did the SRC receive last year?
Dusting off the cobwebs
The Election-ification of Connections
Always Balanced Coverage
SURPRISE VISIT: DENG XIAOPING SPOTTED CAMPAIGNING FOR YOUNG LABOR, SEEKS TO “BALANCE PROGRESS WITH SENSIBLE ECONOMIC MANAGEMENT”
SOCIALIST ALTERNATIVE LEADER REPLACED BY GUY WITH BIGGER, BETTER MEGAPHONE
I ACTUALLY THINK WOMEN HOLD UP 75% OF THE SKY
YOUTUBE VIDEO LOGGED ON LETTERBOXD
LATEST FROM MARK SCOTT: WILL THERE BE GIRLS AT THE ACADEMIC BOARD MEETING?
STRAIGHT FROM THE HORSE’S MOUTH: I JUST STOLE THIS STUPID HORSE’S APPLE!
OPINION: BTS SHOULD MAKE MORE SONGS ABOUT AUSTRALIAN VALUES USU OUTLETS
Angus Fisher Economics IV
Policy Statement
Hi everyone, my name is Angus Fisher and I’m running to be your 2024 SRC President. I’m a current member of the SRC’s executive and have been involved with many societies and groups on campus (special shout out to USU Debating and BoulderSoc). I’m currently doing my Honours in Economics and I also tutor 2nd year Intermediate Microeconomics I am running because I believe the SRC is a body that should truly IMPACT the student university experience by working to achieve tangible and felt outcomes for all students through its advocacy, activism, and service provision.
During my time at university, the current SRC has regrettably not done this to the best of its ability, either failing or outright refusing to negotiate with management on key issues. This has resulted in genuinely bad outcomes for students. In the past year alone, the university has implemented the Campus Access Policy, a measure that harms activism, student life, and staff freedoms. Management hasn’t budged on their stance on Israel-Palestine, not disclosing let alone divesting from their ties to genocide. International students are still denied concession opal cards, face caps on working hours amid a housing crisis, and are experiencing increased discrimination. Courses and staff cuts are rampant yet costs for a four-year degree are at over $50,000 and five-day simple extensions are still at risk. We as students can’t let another year pass by with the SRC achieving nothing.
I will not grandstand on important issues or back down when challenged by the university. I am running because Grassroots presidents, who have been in the Presidency for the last 5 years, have systematically refused to negotiate with university management for a better deal for students. They do this on an ideological basis, like Socialist Alternative (SAlt), because they espouse they are anti-establishment and do not want to involve themselves in formal institutional structures. The SRC should be an organisation that backs up its leftwing values with deliberate and strategic action, the type of action that actually reaps beneficial impacts for the student body.
The SRC President needs to be prepared to negotiate better deals for
students, and can’t ignore that the University plays a crucial role in student welfare. I know the student body also believes this and I am running so students can confidently vote for a president that supports their interests. An essential belief of mine is that to create change for students, a student representative should be able to use the tools of negotiation and protest in synergy to achieve better outcomes. Using only one of the two results in short-term wins, not real lasting change. This two-prong strategy is what I’ll use to fight against the recently instituted Campus Access Policy, to bring back campus life and the freedom to organise for students. When there is an opportunity to get a win for students, I will take it, not leave it in the air. The best way to do this is to be at the table with relevant stakeholders, be that management, community, or government. Because if you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu.
Key issues I’ll bring to management and government include overturning the Campus Access Policy, concession cards for international students, disclosure and divestment from weapons manufacturers, blocking course cuts, retaining 5-day simple extensions, lowering the cost of on-campus food and improving staff-student ratios.
Every year the SRC is allocated $2.9 million to spend on its members, the undergraduate student body. This funding comes from your Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF), of which you pay approx $350 a year. Every single cent of the budget should go back into students’ hands through the work of the SRC, everything from academic and legal caseworkers to holding barbecues and running campaigns. I will hold fortnightly events like forums, barbecues, and stalls as public consultation hours, so you get a say and know how your SSAF is spent.
Over the past few years, I’ve been involved in many impactful campaigns. As a member of Students for Drug Reform, I worked on forums, organised efforts, and pushed for the NSW Drug Summit, now happening this December. Campaigning for Palestine remains a key focus, leading protests and condemning inaction. I and members of IMPACT also helped organise and chair the recent Student General Meeting with over 600 attendees. Despite the referendum loss on the Voice to Parliament, I continue to strive for Voice, Treaty, Truth, and true First Nations justice, emphasising direct engagement with First Nations students and communities.
SRC Services
• Reopen in-person case-work service, enabling better connection with students
• Restart $50 emergency loan service
• Open applications for SSAF funds for events from the ‘Student Weeks’ budget pool ($6000)
• Mandatory in-person consent education program for all first-
years, hosted by SRC
• Fortnightly free BBQs
International Students
• Concession opal cards
• Annual Badminton competition
• Abolish the cap of 48 working hours per fortnight
• Hire another Mandarinspeaking SRC caseworker
• Better treatment of international students at the SRC and USYD
Drug Reform
• Free pill testing kits available in the SRC offices
• Ban sniffer dogs at Someday Soon/campus events
• Continue building the “Legalise It” campaign
• Organise a USYD student contingent to the NSW Drug Summit Conference
Activism and Negotiation
• Overturning the Campus Access Policy
• Retaining 5-day simple extensions
• Lowering the cost of oncampus food
• Improving staff-student ratios
• Stopping course cuts
• Disclosure and divestment from weapons manufacturers
• Free education
While the SRC in recent years has not done everything in its power to improve students’ experience, this can change. You can vote for an SRC that uses its resources effectively and leaves no undergraduate student behind. Vote with confidence, vote IMPACT, and vote ANGUS FOR PRESIDENT in the SRC elections.
Curriculum Vitae
• SRC General Executive Member, 2024: Oversaw the day-to-day activities of the SRC.
• Oversaw determining the approval of SRC budget spending and formulating staff workplace policy.
• As General Executive Member held the core executive’s, including the President’s, decisions to account.
• SRC Councillor, 2024.
• Education Action Group, 2024: Participating and organising against the Campus Access Policy.
• Welfare Action Group, 2024.
• Students for Drug Reform, 2024: Participated in a forum with experts in the field and fought for the 2024 Drug Summit.
• Students for Yes, 2023: Held regular yarn circles and campaigning days for the referendum.
• USU Debating Society, 20222023: Chair Judge Easters 2022, USU Grandslam 2022 Grand-Finalist, BP Novice 2022 Semi-Finalist.
• USYD BoulderSoc 2021-2024: Climbs V10 (pretty good).
• EconSoc, 2021-2024
• DemSoc, 2023
• FASS School of Economics Tutor, 2024.
• USYD Economics Honours Candidate, 2024-Ongoing:
• NTEU Member, 2024: Voted in favour for the Palestine BDS motion.
• USU Board Candidate, 2024.
• Social Sciences Building (SSB) Enjoyer, 2021-Eternity.
• Nearly HD WAM, 2021-2024.
• The Best Candidate for SRC President, 2024
Rand Khatib Arts VI
My name is Rand Khatib and I want to be your 2025 SRC president.
I was born and lived in the 1948 occupied Palestinian territories, in what is today referred to as Israel, where my family and other Palestinian citizens of Israel face structural racism under an Apartheid system. We left when I was young, fleeing state, societal and domestic violence which stripped us of our rights in order to further the subjugation of the Palestinian collective consciousness.
In coming to USyd, my worldview shifted – I acknowledged that ‘Australia’ is founded on the genocide, incarceration and land theft of First Nations people, that people of colour face systemic racism, that environmental devastation is accelerated by the fossil fuel and mining industry, that femicide and domestic violence rates are increasing, and the exploitation of workers is worsening. I understand that achieving real justice for these movements requires politics which is grassroots and revolutionary. We are witnessing horrific levels of catastrophe in the anti-racist and decolonial space, with the failure of the Voice to Parliament, hyper-incarceration of First Nations people and higher rates of child theft since the stolen generation. Worldwide, we bear witness to atrocities, whether that be genocide in Gaza, the crisis in Sudan, or the continued occupation of West Papua.
And at the same time, we are witnessing the most sustained mobilisation across so-called Australia in over 30 years. Palestine has not split the left — it has defined the left, and any self-identifying progressive person must take up Palestine and the broader fight for decolonisation as urgent, necessary and the intersectional front of all struggle.
The SRC has a long history of standing up for students, staff and workers, for freedom of speech, against colonisation and for justice. I am prepared to continue this important work. My vision for the SRC presidency, and certainly in my lived experience as a Palestinian woman, involves supporting the Palestinian-led movement calling for Boycotts, Divest & Sanctions, the same movement which was integral to dismantling apartheid in South Africa.
USyd is overwhelmingly complicit in the current genocide in Gaza and the 76-year long colonisation of historic Palestine. USyd has partnerships with weapons companies, like Thales, who supply arms to Israel used for the slaughter of my people. USyd also partners with several Israeli academic institutions, namely Tel Aviv University and Hebrew University of Jerusalem, which are foundational to Israel’s systematic domination. This is why I helped lead the USyd Gaza Solidarity Encampment, fighting for this university to sever all its ties to genocide. In response to the encampment, USyd created the Campus Access Policy 2024 (CAP) designed to stifle Palestine activism and campus culture, restricting our fundamental democratic right to protest. We will SCRAP THE CAP.
For the SRC to remain a fighting student union, we need a left-wing independent SRC president and council, unfettered by connections to the major parties that have a self-evident criminal legacy. VOTING [1] GRASSROOTS, FREE PALESTINE and RAND FOR PRESIDENT will set a mandate that this union is pro-Palestine, feminist, anti-racist, and intersectional, agitating against uni management, the Labor party and the far-Right.
BOYCOTT! DIVEST! SANCTION! FREE, FREE PALESTINE.
• THE SRC WILL continue spearheading a Pro-Palestine solidarity campaign, demanding that:
• USYD MUST DISCLOSE AND CUT TIES with all weapons companies, and businesses complicit in genocide in Gaza and settlement enterprise in the occupied West Bank.
• USYD MUST PUBLICLY REJECT THE IHRA DEFINITION of antisemitism, which seeks to silence legitimate criticism of the state of Israel and stifle free speech.
• LABOR MUST END AUSTRALIA’S COMPLICITY
IN THE GENOCIDE IN GAZA. Sanctions now! Two-way arms embargo!
• THE SRC WILL coordinate with other student unions and the National Union of Students to become ApartheidFree Zones and push toward a free Palestine.
FROM GAZA TO GADIGAL. The SRC will demand that:
• USYD PAY THE RENT, paying reparations for the stolen lands that it benefits from.
• SO-CALLED AUSTRALIA COMMITS to truth telling, treaty and land back, echoing the demands of decades of First Nations activism.-LABOR APOLOGISE for their failed campaign to bring a Voice to Parliament and for increased racism towards Bla(c)k, Indigenous & POC.
NO TO THE NEOLIBERAL, REPRESSIVE UNIVERSITY! The SRC will demand that USyd:
• SCRAP THE CAMPUS ACCESS POLICY designed to stifle free speech, activism and campus culture.
• DIVEST from its over 300,000 shares in BHP, Rio Tinto and Shell.
• ABOLISH THE ELITIST AND SEXIST COLLEGES, create safe & affordable housing in its place.
• REDUCE CLASS SIZES! Lower student-to-staff ratios in classrooms to ensure a better experience for all!
• REMOVE COMPULSORY UNDERGRADUATE INTERDISCIPLINARY UNITS!
NO STUDENT LEFT BEHIND. The SRC will:
• DEFEND 5-DAY SIMPLE EXTENSIONS from being reduced to 3-days.
• INCREASE ACCESS TO SRC LEGAL AND CASEWORK SERVICES, so that students are supported in their fight against the university.
• DEMAND THAT USYD REVERSE ALL COURSE CUTS!
• FIGHT TO IMPROVE HEALTH SERVICES ON CAMPUS! Widen access and availability of GPs, Psychologists and STD tests on campus!
LABOR, LABOR, YOUR HANDS ARE RED. The SRC will demand that Labor:
• END UNPAID STUDENT PLACEMENTS! Work with Students against Placement Poverty to ensure all students are paid PROPERLY for their
placement, contact hours.
• STOP THE TORTURE IN OFFSHORE DETENTION! Call out Labor’s shameful legacy in treating refugees like criminals.
• FIX THE RENTAL CRISIS, end no-grounds evictions, rent caps and a rent freeze now!
• PROVIDE OPAL CONCESSIONS FOR ALL STUDENTS! Fight the NSW Labor government to give international and part-time students affordable public transport.
Curriculum Vitae
Ethnocultural Officer, convenor of SRC Autonomous Collective Against Racism 2023
• Co-convenor of BDS Youth 2023-2024
• Women’s Officer, co-convenor of SRC Women’s Collective 2023-24
• Co-Editor in chief of Growing Strong 2024
• Editor of Women’s Honi 2024
• SRC Councillor 2023
• Member of the SRC Education Action Group 2023participating in the NTEU strike campaign
• Active member of the Gaza Solidarity Encampment
• Member of Blak Caucus Allies; helped organise the 2024 Invasion Day protest
• Member of Palestine Justice Movement; helped organise ZIM protests, organised with trade union delegates and rank and file members
• Member of Students for Palestine
• Member of Students Against War
• Member of SUMSA 2023-2024
• Member of Grassroots
• Best falafel maker
• Cat person
Thomas Thorpe Engineering IV
Policy Statement
The SRC President is paid over $40,000 funded by your student fees. Will you elect another self-indulgent socialist who does not represent you, or will you vote for change this election?
Hello fellow students, my name is Thomas. I am a fourth year civil engineering student running to be your SRC President. My candidate CV shows a breadth of experiences and interests, as played out through my degree thus far. However, these factors are not necessarily what make me the best choice for SRC President. I am the best choice because, unlike the radical socialists who dominate the SRC, I resonate with students and have a desire to serve you. If you’ve ever had a conversation with one of the socialists it was probably that person trying to get something out of you, such as attendance at a protest. I intend to change the expectation by giving myself as a servant of the students, because true leadership is lifting others up.
I have served on the SRC before, so I have first hand experience of how vulgar, offensive and radical the typical student politicians are. Calling for the murder of CEOs, saying people who disagree with you should “go to hell” and throwing of scrunched up aluminium foil are experiences I witnessed on the SRC. This is unacceptable behaviour, and I intend to return decency to the SRC. It is easy to be divided. Yet we share a common part of our identity as students of the university. I believe that our diverse body points to the greatness of the thing around which it gathers. Something glorious can unify people who would otherwise have nothing in common. However, the SRC has a history of trying to break down our institution and turn it into a socialist dystopia. Just recall their tent wasteland from last semester, from which the front lawns remain unusable. I will change the status quo by doing things for the students instead of doing things for show, because the President should act for the interests of students instead of seeking attention.
A quick search of the history of SRC Presidents will show you that in recent history the SRC has been dominated by a radical political persuasion unlike that of either major political party. Part of the issue is that the Presidents have seen their election as a chance to peddle some sort
of political agenda, which the position is powerless to achieve. Some recent motions passed by the SRC include: “Abolish the Colleges- students need safe and accessible housing” and “Solidarity to Student Protests in Greece! No to the privatization of university”. The affairs to which the SRC often devotes its greatest attention are beyond its scope. The SRC President should be a governance role, not a political one. I intend to shift the focus towards the students instead of claiming some political dominion.
The SRC is unproductive, perhaps best highlighted by how wasteful they are. These leaders have a history of disrupting your opportunities to learn through their parading around. Students in second year and above can recall the staff strikes, instances of activism, not action, as demonstrated by stalled progress until the strikes stopped and the negotiations began. Think about it this way: we paid our fees. Some of our fees went to the SRC, and were used, in part, to fund the strikes. Some of our fees went to the university, and were used, in part, to fund security. Change is needed in the spending habits of the SRC.
The abysmal job of the SRC begs the question of how they continue to get elected. This is because the voter turnout in student elections only reaches about 5%. Last year only 2,155 people, out of nearly 40,000 undergraduate students, voted in the presidential election. The apathy towards student elections is understandable considering how the candidates focus on politics, not governance, with special attention to issues beyond their purview. The result is a body elected to represent the students, but really only representing their own niche interests.
I am running to be the President of the SRC because the current regime is unproductive and unrepresentative of our student body. I hope to be studentcentred, productive and representative of the students who elect me. I expect that if you look at the nominators of my fellow candidates you will see an array of the usual socialist figures who participate in wasteful strikes and protests. In contrast, my nominators are a diverse group of people in terms of background, degree and often political unaffiliation.
Please find some of my policies below:
GENERAL
• Focus on governance, not politics.
• Publish the spending of the SRC.
• Reduce wasteful spending by the SRC.
• Add voting locations/times at ABS, Charles Perkins and PNR.
• Attend the USyd ANZAC Day dawn service.
• Ban protesting in front of graduations.
• Seek harsher penalties on student activists disrupting classes.
ADMIN
• Improve the university admin portal to function like the myResearch portal.
• Clean up the process for room bookings by removing unnecessary bureaucracy.
• Collaborate with the USU to expand the hours during which clubs can book rooms for free.
• Petition the university to improve the appearance and effectiveness of Sonia.
• Open a portal whereby students can request maintenance (e.g. the squeaky doors in J03).
STUDENTS
• Incentivise shops on campus to hire students.
• Install more gazebos for students to hang out.
• Increase exposure to the Centre for English Teaching.
ENVIRONMENT
• Install a return and earn bin on campus.
• Install compost bins on campus.
• Empty the bins on campus more frequently.
• Launch an anti-litter campaign on campus.
If you are an undecided voter then my plea to you is that, for the first time in your degree, you have an alternative to the unnecessary radical political antics of the average student politicians. You have a chance to show them that you don’t care for what they do. You have a chance to foster change.
I ask that you would please:
VOTE [1] THOMAS THORPE FOR PRESIDENT
VOTE [1] SAVE THE SRC
Curriculum Vitae
Co-curriculars at the university:
• Vice President, Libertarian Society, 2023-2024.
• Secretary, Evangelical Union, 2024.
• Student Representative Councillor, 2023.
• SRC Interfaith Officer, 2023.
Work at the university:
• Academic tutor, School of Civil Engineering.
• Senior Academic Tutor, St Andrew’s College.
Volunteering at the university:
• Engineering Professional Engagement Program Mentor Semester 2, 2022.
• Engineering open day assistant for first year students 2022
• Successful USU election campaign manager, 2023.
Volunteering otherwise:
• Humanitarian engineering work for Door Step School Foundation in Pune, India.
• Volunteering at my local church.
Academic:
• 2021 University of Sydney Academic Merit Prize.
• 2022 University of Sydney Dean’s List of Excellence in Academic Performance.
• 2022 University of Sydney Jeffery and Katauskas Prize in Geomechanics.
• 2022 University of Sydney Frances Marion Smith Scholarship in Civil Engineering.
• 2022 University of Sydney Academic Merit Prize.
• 2023 University of Sydney Frances Marion Smith Scholarship in Civil Engineering.
• 2024 Dalyell Global Mobility Scholarship.
• 2024 New Colombo Plan Scholarship.
Hobbies:
• Learning Italian.
• Playing the piano.
• Making YouTube videos.
• Sport (golf, tennis, footy).
• Analysing the structure of buildings.
• Not a radical socialist.
Spill for Honi
Policy Statement
Spill for Honi is a group of students who are enthusiastic and dedicated to continuing Honi Soit’s legacy of being a staunchly left-wing newspaper that gives students a platform to speak up on issues that affect our campus, and communities beyond.
SANGRIAS WITH A SHOT OF POLITICS
Honi Soit is the voice of our student union. Spill is dedicated to ensuring that our campus continues criticising management decisions and the colonial institutions that limit our freedoms as students. We are committed to rebuilding close-knit relations with student activists through a consistent involvement in activist spaces and ensuring protest/ political coverage is increased. We will create spaces for reporters to upskill by assisting in co-writing for news coverage. By fostering relations with collectives such as First Nations, ACAR, Women’s, QUAC, DisCo, EAG, we will uphold Honi’s legacy of challenging repressive policies that impact student bodies across campus and beyond.
PITCHING AND BITCHING WITH OUR REPORTERS
Spill for Honi wants to revive and rebuild the Honi contributor community by bringing back social spaces through our “Pitch n Bitch sessions”. These sessions will allow reporters to brainstorm pitches, gain real-time feedback, discuss the writing process, events, issues on campus, and build relationships with their editors, as well as make Honi accessible to new reporters.
We also will maintain established relations with other student publications across the country, supporting and contributing to the national journalistic community. By communicating with and working alongside a diverse group of student journalists in Australia, we will ensure that student journalism continues to flourish.
SIP AND PAINT WITH OUR ARTISTS
Spill will continue to foster and encourage student artists. We aim to establish artists profiles/pages online, enabling artists to create digital portfolios (much like our reporters) and additionally allowing readers to view art through the website. We will proactively expand our community of student artists contributing to the paper. Honi is integral to campus life and culture — Spill recognises the invaluable contributions of student artists who add to the vibrancy of the paper and the tapestry of campus reporting.
EXPERIMENTAL COCKTAILS
We will diversify our columns to encourage wider readership, accessibility, and interactivity with Honi Soit.
Our advice column will be open to the student body to send any thoughts to Spill. Run by the editors, this column will increase the interaction between students and the paper.
History Bites will offer fortnightly insights into Honi’s history and USyd student journalism. Digging through archives of Honi Soit will offer a space to indulge in past articles and interesting facts about the changing legacy of the paper and its writers.
Rumour Has It will be a fun and accessible path to understanding the StuPol community, BNOC’s, and their influences on campus life and politics. This segment will bridge the gap between campus politics and the greater student body to encourage participation.
Honi benefits greatly from a vibrant culture section as a studentled newspaper. We will continue to cultivate, maintain, and expand Honi’s relationships with media partners, such as Sydney Writers Fest and Sydney Film Fest. Our investment in a cultural section also includes regularly maintaining “Honi’s culture guide” with the most relevant and interesting student and cultural events happening around our campus.
TECH AND TONIC
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, Spill recognises the crucial need to reshape and adapt our paper to adhere to competing industry needs. To achieve this, we are committed to expanding our online presence and boosting engagement by revisiting our approach to social media platforms. We aim to create short-form videos that complement weekly news, break down student politics, and offer contributors a platform to elaborate on their additions in the paper. This is pertinent to news that holds relevance to our university to inform and serve the student community. We will regularly be on Eastern Avenue conducting vox-pops with students on topics covered in weekly articles which aim to broaden engagement and awareness of the paper within the overall student community. Spill believes these policies will increase the accessibility of Honi Soit and lower the barrier for firsttime reporters.
CANDIDATES
Ellie Robertson Arts III
Curriculum Vitae
• Reporter, Honi Soit 2023 -
• Art and Photography Contributor, Honi Soit 2024-
• Contributor, AVENUE 2023
• Contributor, Growing Strong 2024
• Editor, Growing Strong 2024
• Editor, Women’s Honi 2023, 2024
• Newcomer’s Author Award Winner 2022
• SRC Councillor 2024
• SRC Welfare Officer 2024
• SRC SASH (Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment) Officer 2024
• Samantha Jones Wannabe, 2020
• Professional Money Spender, 2012
Mehnaaz Hossain Arts/ Adv. Studies III
Curriculum Vitae
• Honi Soit contributor, 2022-present
• ACAR Honi editor and contributor, 2023-2024
• Women’s Honi editor, 2023
• Women’s Honi contributor, 2024
• Playdough Magazine contributor, 2023
• Honi Award for Best Campus Piece, 2023
• USU Debating Society Ethnocultural Officer, 2024
• Devi Vishwakumar apologist, 2020-2023
• Failed nonchalant chill girl, 20202022
• Really annoying on Twitter, 2021-present
• Chronic diarist, 2014-present
Purny Ahmed Visual Arts / Adv. Studies II
Curriculum Vitae
• Reporter, Honi Soit 2024-
• Art Contributor, Womens Honi 2024
• Editor, Womens Honi 2024
• Contributor, Womens Honi 2024
• Editor, ARMED ACAR Zine 2024
• Contributor, ACAR Honi 2024
• ‘Neophyte’ Exhibition Contributor 2023
• Volunteer, Museum of Contemporary Art 2023
• Chronic Pinterest hoarder 2017-
• Professional trauma dumper 2024-
Ondine Karpinellison Arts / Adv. Studies IV
• Honi Soit contributor (2023-)
• Pulp contributor (2024-)
• Push Magazine contributor (2024)
• Volunteer for Yes Campaign (2023)
• Pop Culture rat (2012)
• Hoping to be paid for my opinions (2002-)
Lotte Weber Arts / Adv. Studies III
Curriculum Vitae
• Honi Soit Reporter 2024-
• Women’s Honi Editor 2024
• Women’s Honi Contributor 2024
• Digital Journalist for Endo Articles 2024-
• Student Mentor 2024-
• Course Student Partner at the ANU 2022
• Youth Community Service Award from the Order of Australia Association 2021
• First in family student
• Miffy enthusiast
• Fashionably late 2003-
Imogen Sabey Arts II
Curriculum Vitae
• Honi Soit contributor, 2023-
• Pulp contributor, 2023
• Playdough contributor, 2023
• Women’s Honi editor, 2024
• Best Boy magazine editor, 2024
• Campaigner for Left Wing USU candidate, 2024
• WASABI member, 2023-
• Amateur baker, 2021-
• Polyglot 2024-
Annabel Li
Arts / Adv. Studies III
Curriculum Vitae
• Honi Soit reporter, 2023-present
• Women’s Honi editor, 2023
• Women’s Honi contributor, 2023
• Disabled Honi editor, 2023
• Professional Globe trotter, 2022-
• Occasional artist for Honi, 2023-
• Staunch thrifter, 2019-
• POC Revue Zine editor, 2023
• Clinical Cookie addict, 2024-
Aidan Pollock
Liberal Arts and Science II
Curriculum Vitae
• Contributor to Honi Soit, 2019-
• Arts Revue 2019 cast member
• Secretary of Theatresports Society 2019-2021
• Director of SUDS’ The Room (A Parody), 2020
• Surg radio show host 2020 & 2021
• Yoda impersonator 2021-present
• Commerce Revue 2021 Cast Member
• Commerce Revue 2022 Director
• Proud recipient of ‘Most Eccentric Writer’ award at Honi Soit wrap-up party 2023
Will Winter Arts IV
Curriculum Vitae
• Honi Soit Contributor, 2022-
• Honi Soit Anon Contributor (shhh it’s a secret), 2023
• Honi Award for Best Queer Perspective, 2023
• USYD Queer Revue Performer, 2022-2023
• USYD Queer Revue President, 2023-2024
• USYD SHADES Vice President, 2022-2023
• Chocolate Connoisseur, 2002-
• Flagrant Homosexual, 2014-
Emilie Garcia-Dolnik Arts / Adv. Studies III
Curriculum Vitae
• Honi Soit Contributor 2024
• PULP Magazine Contributor 2024
• Best Upcoming Writer PULP Magazine 2023/24
• Editor and Contributor - Women’s Honi 2024
• Editor and Contributor - ACAR Honi 2024
• Editor and Contributor - ACAR Armed 2024
• Publications Officer DIPSOC 2024-
• Sydney Policy Reform Project 2024
• Contributor - Australian Law Reform Commission 2024
• Spanish Student Representative 2024
• U21 Global Citizens Credential 2024
• Please, call me EGD
• Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers stan (2021-)
• Bad knees (2015-)
[A] SAVE THE NUS
Policy statement
S - tudents
A - dding
V - alue for E - veryone
SAVE the SRC believes the current system does not work for or represent the ordinary Uni student. The negligent management of student fees and endorsement of strikes need SAVING. We understand that most students just want to get to their classes without disruption and feel supported in their studies. This must be balanced with policies that don’t waste the hard-earned cash of all students on issues 99% don’t care about, but give students a tangible return on that investment. Currently, fees are THEFT!
We’re all grateful for the wonderful opportunities Uni has given us. Yet, we can strengthen the uni experience - not through the current system of wasteful spending and strikes, but through practical policies to help most students.
This is especially true in the current cost of living crisis. Why do leading world universities throw its students to the wolves when it comes to purchasing textbooks? Why do leading world university’s enrolment and online help system more difficult to solve than the Riemann Hypothesis? Why does a leading world university provide little help to international students to integrate and find work opportunities?
It’s clear Uni students and the NUS need SAVING.
SAVE INTERNATIONAL AND INTERSTATE STUDENTS
We understand the difficulty for international and interstate students coming to a new state or country, especially when uni can be confusing and socially confronting for domestic students. We need more of a focus on integrating international and interstate students with the domestic student body and providing more opportunities to socialise and increase their professional network. This is because we are all equally students and should stand united. Additionally, we propose subsidised housing for international students to help ease their financial burden and ensure a smoother transition.
SAVE ACADEMIC SUPPORT AND TEXTBOOK BURDENS
We advocate for better access to academic resources, which should be expected at a leading university with high fees. The cost of living is rising and since we are already accruing tens of thousands of dollars of debt, it is comical that the extra burden of purchasing textbooks is put on the shoulders of students. This alongside the unavailability of niche textbooks in libraries and online access crashing with too many students during exam season needs SAVING. This is why we propose currently wasted money to go instead to textbook grants and textbook hire services as a central service in providing a uni course. Instead of focusing on
strikes and activism that no one cares about, we will put students first.
SAVE THE ONLINE ENROLMENT PROCESS
We’re sure everyone else went through the pain of having to set up their enrolment after finishing high school, or with even more difficulty from overseas. There are multiple online resources that all give conflicting advice where trying to enrol for the first time is likely the biggest accomplishment of your whole degree! This leaves a bad impression on new domestic and international students, especially for a leading world university. Thus, we propose a simple and thorough online/video resource for each degree, created by students for students.
SAVE STUDENT LIFE AND CAMPUS COMMUNITY
University should be more than just lectures and assignments—it should be a vibrant community where students can enjoy themselves and connect with others. We propose that a portion of student fees be allocated to improve student life through better funding for campus events, cheaper food options, and support for student parties and social gatherings. By making the campus experience more affordable and enjoyable, we can help build a stronger, more connected student community.
SAVE NETWORKING AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Universities play a crucial role in shaping students’ academic and professional futures. We propose that uni fees be used to fund more networking events and career fairs, connecting students with industry professionals, alums, and potential employers. These events, catering to various disciplines and career paths, will ensure that all students can build valuable connections and gain insights into their future careers. By prioritising networking and career development, we can help students transition smoothly from university to the workforce, a crucial part of our mission.
CANDIDATES
Aryan Ilkhani Laws/Commerce II
Curriculum Vitae
• Won’t bore you with my actual CV
• Genuinely believe our uni needs to be SAVEd
• I eat pizza crust side first
• Coffee is bean water with a cult following. Tea >> coffee.
[B] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS
Policy statement
The National Union of Students is the national body for students in Australia. As such, it must endeavor to represent and fight for those students. Once a bastion for student activism and advocacy, the NUS has fallen to the wayside in the process of electing a Labor government. The Labor factions (NLS and Unity) which control the NUS have decided to allow once vibrant anti-cuts, antiausterity campaigns to fizzle out, instead of standing up to the Labor government’s continued attacks on higher education and students. Students need a national activist body that connects to grassroots campaigns and joins in on the fight at every campus. We are being swamped with HECs debt and unable to find safe and affordable housing amidst a once-in-a-generation cost of living crisis, and thus, it is pivotal that we foster an NUS that is capable of UNITING students and LEADING the fight.
GRASSROOTS FOR NUS therefore seeks to reinstate the combative and firebrand nature of the NUS, one that seeks to challenge the powers that be, whether they be Liberal or Labor. In doing so, we will restore the activist nature of the NUS, challenging the careerists who have led to its stagnation and fight against capitalist and conservative governments and institutions. We will continue to put students and their causes first, fighting through national days of action, protests and walk-offs.
In the current context, the NUS must pivot toward the struggle for a FREE PALESTINE - as is the mandate for all student unions across so-called Australia. Right now, upwards of 186,000 Palestinians in Gaza are estimated to have been killed by Israel; we must not mince our words when we say that this is a genocide. Yet, the NUS is largely afraid to call out Labor’s complicity in Israel’s war crimes. GRASSROOTS will staunchly push for boycotts, divestment and sanctions until Free Palestine can be read backwards.
GRASSROOTS is independent of major political parties, and seeks to unite students on issues that affect us. All students – international and domestic – should have a place in the NUS. To this end, we believe the SRC should tie in with campaigns on local campuses, such as to SCRAP THE CAP at USyd, and for national projects such as the recent USyd campaign for Concession Opal Cards for International students, as well as continuing the fight for free
and accessible education for all, with no compromises.
GRASSROOTS believes that the climate crisis is the biggest crisis facing our generation. Ironically, the NUS does not have an Environment Officer (in fact, Unity voted down a proposal for an environmental officer), and GRASSROOTS believe this should be urgently implemented. Now is not the time to greenwash and cover up for the Labor government’s inaction on climate, when they’ve green-lit over 116 new fossil fuel projects.
GRASSROOTS FOR NUS adheres to the principles of anti-capitalism, anticolonialism, anti-racism, anti-homophobia, anti-transphobia, feminism, First Nations justice, environmental justice, and disability justice.
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS
Vote [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
Vote [3] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS
RAND FOR PRESIDENT
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR SRC
CANDIDATES
Simon Upitis Arts V
Hey! I’m Simon, I study History and Political Economy.
• I’ve been an activist on campus for a few years and have been involved in heaps of left-wing causes!
• I’m the current Social Justice Officer for the 96th SRC.
• Students for Palestine member.
• I organised the Gaza Solidarity Encampment and the Student General Meeting to cut ties with Israel.
• As the SRC Environment Officer in 2023 I organised climate protests to cut the universities ties to fossil fuel companies.
• In 2022 I organised student support for staff taking strike action at USyd to demand better pay and secure work.
Lauren Finlayson Arts II
Curriculum Vitae
• Member of Students for Palestine.
• I was involved in the Gaza encampment last semester.
• I helped to organise the Student General Meeting to get Israeli weapons companies off campus!
• SRC Social Justice Officer (2024).
• I used my SRC position to promote Palestine activism on campus, our university should be for education, not funding war
• I was a part of ‘Welfare not Warfare’ rallies last year to oppose the drive to war and demand affordable housing
• I’m involved in the USYD enviro collective to demand climate justice.
• I’m Invovled in Community Action for Rainbow Rights to fight for LGBTQ+ rights.
• I joined USYD staff on strike in 2023 to demand better wages and conditions, and continue to support their endeavours
Rand Khatib Arts VI
Curriculum Vitae
• Ethnocultural Officer, convenor of SRC Autonomous Collective Against Racism 2023
• Co-convenor of BDS Youth 20232024
• Women’s Officer, co-convenor of SRC Women’s Collective 2023-24
• Co-Editor in chief of Growing Strong 2024
• Editor of Women’s Honi 2024
• SRC Councillor 2023
• Member of the SRC Education Action Group 2023 - participating in the NTEU strike campaign
• Active member of the Gaza Solidarity Encampment
• Member of Blak Caucus Allies; helped organise the 2024 Invasion Day protest
• Member of Palestine Justice Movement; helped organise ZIM protests, organised with trade union delegates and rank and file members
• Member of Students for Palestine
• Member of Students Against War
• Member of SUMSA 2023-2024
Luke Mesterovic Arts IV
Curriculum Vitae
He/him
• Editor, Honi Soit (2023)
• Contributor, Honi Soit (2021 -)
• Contributor, Pulp (2022 -)
• Vice-President, Sydney University Greek Society (2022-2023)
• Member, Education Action Group (2021-): participating in the Save USyd Arts Campaign (2021) and the NTEU strike campaign (20222023)
• Member, USyd Gaza Solidarity Encampment
• Producer, SUDS’ Things I Know to be True (2022)
• Playwright, SUDS Radio Plays (2021) and SUDS Slot III (2022)
• Actor, USU Arts Revue (2022) and SUDS’ Machinal (2022)
• Set Designer, SUDS’ Noah Centineo: The Movie: The Play: The Movie (2021)
• Production assistant and stage manager, SUDS’ Medea (2022)
• Dramaturg, SUDS’ The Glass Menagerie (2023)
• General Executive, Cartoon Caption Contest Club (2022)
• Ability to succeed in a postcrisis world after completing the “Succeeding in a Post-Crisis World” OLE (2024)
Ishbel Dunsmore Engineering/Arts V
Curriculum Vitae
• 2023 SRC Education Officer
• 2022 SRC Enviro Officer
• Organiser, USyd Gaza Solidarity Encampment
• RAFFWU member, 2021-
• Member of many SRC collectives 2020-
• Old in a fun and not cringe way
Jordan Anderson Arts/Laws III
Curriculum Vitae
• 2024 USyd SRC Enviro Officer
• 2023 Law Revue
• Managed Georgia Zhang and Ethan Floyd’s USU campaigns
• Honi Soit contributor on occasion #journalism
• Currently obsessing over Love Island
Grace Wallman Arts/Laws IV
Curriculum Vitae
(she/her)
• USU Board Director, 2023-25
• USU Disabilities Officer, 2023-
24
• Inaugural SULS Disabilities Officer, 2023
• SRC Welfare Officer, 2022
• SRC Councillor, 2022
• Welfare Action Group convenor, 2022
• FASS Board and Academic Board Student Rep, 2023
• Disabilities Collective member, 2022-present
• Education Action Group member, 2022-present
• USU Chair of Debates, 2024-25
• Shameless, 2002-present
[C] STAND UP FOR NUS
Policy statement
No policy statement supplied.
CANDIDATES
Leo Moore Arts/Laws I
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
Grace Bowen Arts/Advanced Studies II
No image supplied.
Curriculum Vitae No CV supplied.
Daniel O’Shea Commerce III
Curriculum Vitae
• 2023 SRC councillor
• 2023 SRC general executive
• 2024 SRC general secretary
• 2024 NUS general executive
Kyan Aitken Economics/Advanced Studies I
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
[D] ARTISTRY FOR NUS
Policy statement
Arts unionism in Australia is in a difficult period, with low rates of membership and unions that struggle to advocate for us. In a nation where the arts are seen as unsustainable as they don’t create a financial return, instead of being invested into for their cultural return, artists are finding themselves in difficult situations where they have to chose between funding or being able to properly express their views, because privates patrons being restrictive in the requirements of donations.
Students in the fine arts have very minimal representation to the National Union of Students, with our national training institutions, such as the National Art School or National Institute of Dramatic Arts struggling to maintain a student union and do not have enough students in order to be eligible for membership.
Fine arts students pay massive amounts of SSAL to their University and thus student union, but often never see any actual return. This is bizarre, considering the arts are the way we communicate our ideas and are at the centre of all politics.
Artistry for NUS, if elected, will:
• Represent all fine arts students at the University of Sydney and broader Australia, bringing our experience running Australia’s largest music student union to the national stage;
• Amend the NUS Constitution to include a semi-autonomous Fine Arts Department, lead by a Fine Arts Officer, to liaise with the Australian Music Students’ Association and help other fine arts create their own representative student organisations;
• Ensure that fine arts issues are a key focus for the NUS, including lobbying the government to increase support and funding for ALL types of arts, not just commercial or western musics, and have discussions about how best to support artists with the increasing risks of artificial-intelligence to their careers;
• Ensure that First Nations arts and culture, knowledgekeeping, and storytelling are at the centre of NUS work;
• Raise concerns with the NUS about students from regional areas studying music;
• Ensure that all NUS campaigns are accessible to all students, particularly those with disabilities; and
• Push for the removal of HECSHELP, instead to provide free education to all students.
CANDIDATES
Hugo Naea CeranJerusalemy Music/Adv. Studies I
• Proud Tahitian-Jewish man
• Composer, violinist, and pianist
• Pasifika Officer - Conservatorium Students’ Association
• Member - Australian Labor Party
Jessica Smith
Arts/Adv. Studies I
Curriculum Vitae
• Singer, actress, writer, and director
• Environment OfficerConservatorium Students’ Association
• Leader - Sydney Con for Palestine
• Reporter - Honi Soit
• Director & Writer - Behind Closed Doors (SUDS)
• Music Director - Rent the Musical: No Not that Rent (SUDS Major Slot)
• Assistant-Director - Burramatta Songlines
• Ensemble - Legally Blonde (UTS Backstage)
Alexander Poirier Music V
Curriculum Vitae
• Ethnomusicologist and yángqín player
• President - Conservatorium Students’ Association
• President - Australian Music Students’ Association
• Director - University of Sydney Union Board (2022-2024)
• Representative - Students’ Representative Council (2022-23)
• Intercampus Officer - Students’ Representative Council (20212024)
• Secretary - University of Sydney ALP Club (2023)
• Member - Australian Labor Party
Mollie Galvin Music I
Curriculum Vitae
• Historical opera singer, oboist
• Disability Officer - Conservatorium Students’ Association
• Publications Editor - UTS Law
Students’ Society (2023)
• Disability Officer - Students’ Representative Council (2017-2018)
• Editor - Queer Honi (2017)
[E] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
Policy statement
Do you want a national student union independent of the major parties that will fight for students’ rights and for social justice causes like Palestine? Left Action is the only ticket which is proudly left-wing, independent and connected to activists across the country.
We have a proud record of fighting for left-wing politics in the national student union, and leading national campaigns against government attacks and for social justice.
This year we fought to make the NUS take a stance hostile to the Labor government’s support of a genocide, and lead campaigns in solidarity with Gaza. In the past, our activists in NUS have organised campaigns against university fee hikes, for free education, for Black Lives Matter, and for marriage equality. We need a national student union which will fight for our rights and fight for a fairer, more just world. Vote [1] Left Action for NUS for those with the dedication, politics, and principles to make this happen!
CANDIDATES
Deaglan Godwin Arts/Adv. Studies VI
Hi I’m Deaglan
• I think we need an NUS that fights for left-wing causes such as freedom for Palestine, free education and against student debt.
• As SRC Vice President, I helped set up and lead the Gaza Solidarity Camp, the first Gaza encampment in Australia!
• I helped organise the largest Student General Meeting in decades.
• At the Student General Meeting I spoke to the motion demanding the university cut ties with Israel.
• As a Students for Palestine member,
I have campaigned against Israel’s genocide of Gaza, and for a free Palestine.
• I was suspended for protesting former PM Malcolm Turnbull, aka “Mr Habourside Mansion”
• I was the 2022 SRC Education Officer and proudly led the student solidarity campaign with the staff strikes at USYD.
• Before that I helped to organise the 200+ person Student General Meeting against the FASS course cuts
• I was the SRC Environment Officer in 2021- we need system change not climate change!
• I think we a need a fairer and more equal world- the billionaires have too much power and wealth.
• We need to tax them and redistribute their wealth to fund education, healthcare, housing and higher wages!
• And we need to fight and fight for justice and freedom for Palestine!
Shovan Bhattarai Arts II
Curriculum Vitae
• I was proud to issue the call to initiate the USyd Gaza Solidarity Encampment in Sem 1 2024.
• The encampment saw 100s of students camp out on the Quad Lawns to demand our university cut ties with genocide.
• I moved the main motion at the historic Student General Meeting demanding our uni cut ties with Israel.
• I was the SRC Education Officer this year, a position through which I proudly led the Palestine Solidarity campaign
• I’ve been involved in organising activism on climate change, the cost-of-living crisis, LGBTI+ rights, and against the racism and the far right.
• I think that we need an activist NUS that stands up for the oppressed and against injustice.I have campaigned against Israel’s genocide of Gaza, and for a free
Jasmine Al Rawi Architecture and Environment IV
• Hey! I’m Jasmine, I am the convenor of students for Palestine.
• I have been a Palestine activist at Usyd since 2021, ever since the mass protests for Sheikh Jarrah.
• I was an organiser of the Usyd Gaza encampment.
• I co-chaired the Student General Meeting to demand USYD cut ties with genocide, this was the biggest pro Palestine event on campus ever.
• I am a member of the Palestine Action Group. I chaired one of the PAG rallies as a student organiser of the USYD Gaza encampment.
• I am the welfare officer at the USYD SRC 2024.
Emma Searle Laws/Arts I
• Active member of Students for Palestine.
• Helped build student strikes, the Gaza solidarity encampment and the 800-person Student General Meeting!
• An active participant in the Palestine encampment
• Promoted the bi-weekly protests by postering, making lecture announcements and creating promotional material for the Students for Palestine instagram.
Taleen Jameel Arts / Adv. Studies II
Curriculum Vitae
• I was involved in building the LGBTI+ movement in Turkey.
• Arrested during the 2022 Pride Parade at Middle East Technical University for protesting discriminatory policies towards gay and trans students.
• I was part of the Gaza Solidarity Encampment
• Helped build the Student General Meeting, where students voted against the university’s ties with weapons companies and Israeli academic institutions.
• I was involved in the campaign against the Campus Access Policy which aimed to silence student activism on campus.
• I think we can win a world free of exploitation and discrimination, free of racism, sexism, homophobia and transphobia.
• I believe that ordinary people, not the people at the top, are our only hope for a better world.
Lucas Pierce Arts / Adv. Studies III
Curriculum Vitae
• Currently serving as one of the Refugee Rights Officers in the SRC
• - An active supporter of Palestine and member of Students for Palestine.
• Campaigned against the genocide both on campus and off campus, attending the mass rallies on Sunday.
• Helped to organise events at Usyd, such as the student strike for Palestine.
• Part of the historic Gaza Solidarity Encampment here at Usyd last semester.
• In 2023, campaigned against course cuts in the philosophy department, fought against the racist ‘Vote No’.
• Participated in ‘Get a Room’ calling out government complicity in the cost of living crisis, demanding rent freezes and price-caps.
• Protested against the antiLGBTQI+ ‘Religious Vilification Bill’
• Promoted and attended the ‘Illegal Stalls Day’.
• Defied Usyd management’s draconian ‘Campus Access Policy’, which curtails student’s right to free speech and assembly.
• For months promoted, and took part in the incredible 600 student strong Student General Meeting!
Keira Fairley Language Studies V
• Hi, I’m Keira. I’m a socialist and a student activist!
• I’m a member of Students for Palestine, and have been actively involved in setting up the USYD Gaza Solidarity Encampment.
• Involved in organising the successful 600+ person Student General Meeting for Palestine
• Built for several student strikes and protests both on and off campus against weapons companies, the Labor Party, and genocide!
• I’ve been an activist in the ‘Get a Room’ campaign against the housing crisis.
• Helped to build Invasion Day rallies standing up against racism, and fought against attacks on queer rights.
• Led a successful campaign to win meal and rest breaks at my childcare centre, mobilising my coworkers against wage theft
• I have stood on picket lines in solidarity with NTEU staff on strike.
[F]forIMPACT NUS
Policy Statement
The National Union of Students (NUS) is in disarray.
It’s in disarray because of the continued dominance of the right-wing forces who continue to waste students’ money on flights across the country and trips to visit Parliamentarians, instead of organising on the ground for student welfare.
There has been no concerted strategy to develop campaigns, build the student movement and fight for students’ rights on the national level.
That’s why you should vote for IMPACT for NUS!
We are on a mission to rebuild the national student union movement, to clean up our finances, to get us back on track, and start developing strategies and campaigns to improve student welfare.
Tired of student politicians who throw around and waste your hardearned SSAF fees?
Vote IMPACT for NUS – putting students first!
CANDIDATES
Mia Williams Arts I
• Member, Film Society 2024
• Member, Democratic Scoialists Society 2024
• Volunteer, ActionAid Activist Network 2024
• Member, USyd Labor Left 2024
Angus Fisher Economics IV
Curriculum Vitae
• SRC General Executive Member, 2024: Oversaw the day-to-day activities of the SRC.
• SRC Councillor, 2024.
• Member, Education Action Group, 2024: Participating and organising against the Campus Access Policy.
• Member, Welfare Action Group, 2024.
• Member, Students for Drug Reform, 2024: Participated in a forum with experts in the field and fought for the 2024 Drug Summit.
• Member, Students for Yes, 2023: Held regular yarn circles and campaigning day for the referendum.
• Member, USU Debating Society, 2022-2023: Chair Judge Easters 2022, USU Grandslam 2022 GrandFinalist, BP Novice 2022 SemiFinalist.
• Member, USYD BoulderSoc 20212024: Climbs V10 (pretty good).
• Member, EconSoc, 2021-2024
• Member, DemSoc, 2023
• FASS School of Economics Tutor, 2024.
• USYD Economics Honours Candidate, 2024-Ongoing:
• NTEU Member, 2024: Voted in favour for the Palestine BDS motion.
• USU Board Candidate, 2024.
• Social Sciences Building (SSB) Enjoyer, 2021-Eternity.
Jasmine Donnelly Arts I
Curriculum Vitae
• Hysterical female, big fan of ideological pillars
• Have been accused of writing comedy routines in the Honi Soit
• Vice President of the SRC
• Contributed to Honi Soit once
• Honi Soit ticket reject
• Vote Angus Fisher for President
• Follow me on Instagram @ jazdonnelly
[G] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS
Policy Statement
Right now, Israel continues its barbaric slaughter of Palestinians in Gaza. The Lancet Journal now estimates that upwards of 186,000 Palestinians have been murdered by Israel, since October. Yet, our NATIONAL UNION OF STUDENTS remains silent, unwilling to call out this genocide and the Labor government’s complicity.
FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS demands an NUS which is transparent and accessible to students, and that is fiercely independent from the membership of either of the major parties. In its current form, the NUS has been overrun by Labor Left and Labor Right students, who have demonstrated their hostility toward the idea of holding the Labor Party to account. It is abundantly clear that, as the NUS currently stands, our national student union is constrained by partisan positions, meaning that the fight for climate justice, student welfare and, critically, a FREE PALESTINE, fall to the wayside.
Students need a national activist body that will fight for them now more than ever. That requires an urgent leftward shift in the strategy of the NUS, and a coordinated, grassroots Palestine solidarity campaign that can set the tone for campaigns at universities across the continent.
FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS will demand that our universities divest from genocide and that the Labor government sanction Israel now, institute a two-way arms embargo, expel the Israeli ambassador and recall our own. We believe that a united, mass campaign of students and workers is the key to winning this campaign, and will continue to put students and their causes first, fighting through national days of action, protests and walk-offs.
Across so-called Australia, FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS will lead a campaign for all universities and student unions to publicly reject the IHRA definition of anti-semitism, a definition that stifles criticism of the apartheid state of Israel and compromises academic freedom. It has been a key priority of Zionist lobby groups and the Parliamentary Friends of IHRA. This is the very same Labor party which sends dozens of parliamentarians and many young Labor members on junket trips to Israel every year, some of whom have been elected to NUS Office Bearer positions.
FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS calls for the BOYCOTT of and DIVESTMENT from all weapons companies and Israeli academic institutions complicit in Israeli apartheid and genocide, and from all companies operating in the illegally occupied West Bank of Palestine.
FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS spearheaded the Gaza Solidarity Encampment at USyd, helped organise the historic Student General Meeting,
and have led the Palestine solidarity movement on campus. We know what it takes to fight for the liberation of Palestine and that is constantly agitating against University management, the Labor government and the far right.
FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS believes in the principles of anti-capitalism, anticolonialism, anti-racism, anti-homophobia, feminism, First Nations justice, environmental justice, and disability justice. We demand that the NUS reflect these principles in the strongest terms possible.
Vote [1] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS
Vote [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
Vote [3] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS
Vote [1] RAND FOR PRESIDENT
Vote [1] FREE PALESTINE FOR SRC
CANDIDATES
• I’ve been a committed activist for social justice & students rights throughout my degree
• This year I’ve been an activist in Students for Palestine.
• We organized the historic Gaza Solidarity Encampment & continue to pressure our university to end it’s ties to Israel
• For the past two years I’ve been the Environment Officer.
• I have organized protests demanding Labor stope expanding fossil fuel projects
• - I have also organized and built the fight against course cuts to the Arts.
• In 2020 we defeated faculty merges through protests and a Student General Meeting
Curriculum Vitae
• I’m a member of Palestine Action Group.
• I have helped organise weekly rallies against the genocide in Gaza.
• - Helped organise multiple student strikes to support Palestine!
• As an anti-zionist Jewish activist, I have been proud this year to have helped establish the USyd Gaza Solidarity Encampment
• I was the 2023 SRC Education Officer, and helped organise support for staff strikes and opposition to course cuts
• I helped organise a campaign against the housing crisis which is affecting students.
• I think housing should be a human right, not a profit-making exercise for millionaire developers and landlords
• SRC President 2024
• Lead organiser of the Gaza Solidarity Encampment 2024
• Chair of the Student General Meeting 2024
• Member of BDS Youth 2024
• SRC Welfare Officer 2023 SRC Councillor
• 2023 Contributor of Counter Course 2023-24
• Honi Soit Report 2023-24
• Member of Grassroots 2022-24
• Member of Philsoc 2021-2024
• Double-spacing and Cambria fan.
Grace Street Arts/Language Studies IV
2. Studying Political Economy, International Relations, French and (a bit of) Arabic!
3. SRC Councillor and Education Officer 2024
4. Lead the ‘Thales off Campus’ and ‘Scrap the C.A.P’ campaigns, organising the recent Student General Meeting
5. USyd Gaza Solidarity Encampment organiser
6. Member of and organiser in BDS Youth, Students Against War, Students for Palestine, Students Against Placement Poverty
7. Editor-in-Chief Counter Course 2024; Editor Women’s Honi (20234), Disabled Honi (2024)
8. Writer for Honi Soit, Pulp, SURG, WoCo’s Growing Strong, ACAR ‘Armed’ Zine
9. FrenchSoc President (2023), Publicity Officer (2022)
10. FASS Dalyell Student Mentor of the Year (2022)
11. Childless cat lady with a cat tattoo
12. If you saw my vlogs on the Sydney Abroad Instagram, no you didn’t xx
13. Met 3 members of The Strokes
14. Saw Brutalismus 3000 in-person <3Double-spacing and Cambria fan.
Ethan Floyd Arts III
Curriculum Vitae
• SRC First Nations Officer, 96th SRC (2023-24)
• Coordinated campaigns for decolonisation and First Nations justice, against deaths in custody and forced child removals in NSW.
• Co-convenor of the SRC First Nations Students’ Collective (2024)
• SRC Councillor, 96th SRC (2024)
• Member of SRC Autonomous Collective Against Racism (2022-): Organising around anti-racist values and collective liberation, community events and political education.
• Editor, Honi Soit (2022-23) Editor, ACAR Honi (2023); Disabled Honi (2023-24); Indigenous Honi (2023).
• Contributor, Honi Soit (2022-)
• USU Board Director (2024-); Ethnocultural, Disabilities, Queer portfolio-holder (2024-)
• USU Director of Student Publications (2024-)
• Undergraduate Representative, Academic Board (2023-)
• Student Partner, Indigenous
Strategy and Services Committee (2023-)
Ravkaran Grewal Arts III
Curriculum Vitae
• Current ACAR Convenor
• Current Ethnocultural officer 2024
• SRC Councillor 2024
• Camper @ USyd Gaza Solidarity Encampment
• Students for Palestine member
• Students Against War member
• Political Economy Society Exec 2023-24
• Armed and ACAR Honi editor-inchief
• Moved a successful motion within the SRC to endorse Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS)
• Frantz Fanon Fan
Alex McEvoy Arts/Adv. Studies IV
Curriculum Vitae
• Philosophy and Politics/IR Major
• 2023/4 SRC Councillor
• Member of Grassroots
• Tax positive
[H]
IntifadaStudent
Policy Statement
Student Intifada for a free Palestine! USyd cut ties with Israel!
Since October 7th, Israel has launched a campaign of death and destruction in Palestine, expanding its slaughter in Gaza to neighbouring countries like Lebanon and Iran.
The Albanese government has backed Israel the whole way. Australia still supplies components to the f-35 fighter jets raining bombs on Gaza. Through Usyd’s ties to Israel, our Vice Chancellor, Mark Scott, has given cover to Israel and normalised its Apartheid system.
This support is despite the International Court of Justice’s ruling that there is plausible case for genocide, and more recently declaring Israel an Apartheid state illegally occupying the Palestinian territories.
Despite management’s support for Israel, the movement to free Palestine and cut ties with the terror state is growing. Over 600 students voted overwhelmingly to cut USYD ties with Israel and weapons manufacturers, rescind the draconian Campus Access Policy, affirm Palestinians’ right to armed resistance under international law, and support a single, democratic, secular state of Palestine.
Vice Chancellor Mark Scott’s response - smearing us as “terrorists”revealed his utter contempt for student voices and democratic processes.
Mark Scott and Albanese are the ones supporting a campaign of terror against the Palestinian people. Scott partners with weapons companies arming Israel. Usyd runs a medical exchange program with Technion, an Israeli university. From developing the D9 remote controlled bulldozers that have demolished Palestinian homes, to developing chemical weapons used to poison Palestinian water, Technion upholds Israel’s apartheid regime.
Mark Scott has tried to whitewash these ties, from painting over Palestinian flags and slogans in the graffiti tunnel to introducing the Campus Access Policy. Mark Scott is hell bent on snuffing out the movement for Palestine on campus.
But we refuse to be intimidated. When management tried to ban the word “intifada,” we didn’t back down. When he banned some of us from speaking about Palestine in our classes we refused to be silent.
We understand that our power comes from numbers so reaching out to our fellow students in classrooms is crucial. It’s in classes we’ve gathered over 1300 USyd signatories demanding Usyd cut ties with Israel and built support for the campaign.
On March 19th, we protested USyd’s exchange expo featuring Tel Aviv university, which recruits students to work with Elbit Systems—an Israeli weapons manufacturer.
CANDIDATES
Angus Dermody Arts/Adv. Studies V
• Member of revolutionary socialist organisation Solidarity
• Member of Students Against War
• Involved in the campaign to cut USYD’s ties with Israeli apartheid and genocide
• Been a part of many other campaigns on this campus fighting course cuts and fee hikes, standing with staff on the picket line in their strikes, and for climate action
• Also active off campus in any fight for a better world
• Known to USYD security
• Identified by the Daily Telegraph as an ‘intifada socialist’
Alexander Nicolson Arts III
Curriculum Vitae
• Proud member of Students Against War fighting USyd’s ties with apartheid Israel
• Helped build the historic Student General Meeting.
• Helped pass the second motion supporting the right to armed resistance and one Palestinian state
• Participated in the Gaza Solidarity Encampment last semester
• Participated in Port Botany blockade against Israeli ZIM shipping
• Member of Students Against War and active in Palestine campaigning on and off campus
• Member of revolutionary socialist group, Solidarity
• Part of the ZIM shipping blockades at Port Botany
• -Spoke at cut ties rallies during the Gaza Solidarity Encampment
• Organised events to paint the graffiti tunnel in support of Palestine
• Attended and built for the historic Student General Meeting.
• The meeting voted to cut tie and affirm the right of Palestinians to armed resistance
• Also supported the call for one, secular, democratic state from the river to the sea
• Picketed at the 2022/2023 USyd staff strikes
[A] GRASSROOTS FOR SRC
Policy Statement
GRASSROOTS FOR SRC is a group of independent left-wing student activists enraged by the University of Sydney’s continued support for Israel’s genocide in Gaza. Gaza has suffered 11 months of brutal bombing and an abhorrent ground invasion, with the estimated death toll at 186,000. At this time, the University of Sydney has refused to fulfil its obligations under int’l law, to sever its partnerships with weapons companies like Thales, divest from corporations complicit in settlement expansion in the West Bank, and cut ties to the academic institutions that occupy stolen land and actively maintain Israel’s apartheid and genocidal regime. That’s why we, GRASSROOTS FOR SRC, spearheaded the Gaza Solidarity Encampment, where for two months, students camped outside the Quad, demanding that USyd disclose their ties and divest from Israel.
GRASSROOTS FOR SRC condemns university management, who continue to decimate the quality of our education, and are outraged by the Labor government’s prioritisation the interests of corporations, landlords and the rich during one of the worst cost-ofliving crises in this country’s history.
GRASSROOTS FOR SRC has an extensive track record opposing the major parties of government who are intent on destroying our future. As students, we have built solidarity with USyd staff, local activist groups, trade unions, and other organisations to oppose Labor’s continued use of fossil fuels in a worsening climate crisis, fought against public housing demolitions, rallied for renter’s rights, resisted offshore detention, deportation and battled for refugees to be granted permanent residency. We’ve fought attacks on higher education including fighting the ‘jobready graduates package’ brought in by the Coalition, rallied against budgets that fail to support students in a costof-living crisis where the rich are getting richer, and are actively fighting Labor’s woeful solution to placement poverty. We have a lengthy history of opposing university management and winning for students. On campus we founded and expanded Foodhub, created and defended 5-day simple extensions, defeated 12-week semesters, opposed an onslaught of course cuts and mergers, and stood in solidarity with staff on the picket fighting for better wages and conditions.
GRASSROOTS FOR SRC knows there is much to get done, and we are prepared to continue our legacy fighting for a better world and achieving wins for students.
Specifically, we will:
• Ensure USYD discloses and cuts ties with all weapons companies, and businesses complicit in genocide in
Gaza as well as the settlement enterprise in the occupied West Bank.
• Force USyd to publicly reject the IHRA definition of antisemitism, which seeks to silence legitimate criticism of the state of Israel and stifle free speech.
• Protest Labor and demand they end Australia’s complicity in the genocide in Gaza, using all vehicles at its disposal: Sanctions now! Two-way arms embargo! Expel the Israeli ambassador and recall our own!
• Make our colonial university Pay the Rent, paying reparations for the stolen lands that it benefits from.
• Force the Labor party to commit to truth telling, treaty and land back, echoing the demands of decades of First Nations activism and advocacy.
• Scrap the Campus Access Policy 2024, a draconian policy designed to stifle free speech, activism and campus culture.
• Force the university to divest from its over 300,000 shares in BHP, Rio Tinto and Shell.
• Create safe & affordable housing to replace the elitist and sexist colleges.
• Defend 5-day simple extensions from being reduced to 3-days!
• Widen and improve access to SRC legal and casework services!
• Demand that USyd reverse all undergraduate and postgraduate course cuts! Save philosophy and end the attacks on honours!
• End unpaid student placements! Work with Students Against Placement Poverty to ensure all students are paid PROPERLY for their placements!
• Continue the campaign calling for a rent freeze, rent caps, and housing justice!
• Implement an expert-led and independent task force into sexual violence on campus and at student accomodation, providing free and immediately accessible counselling for all victims of sexual violence on campus!
• Fight the NSW Labor government to give international and part-time students concession transport now!
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR SRC
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS
Vote [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
Vote [3] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS
RAND FOR PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES
Rand Khatib Arts VI
Curriculum Vitae
• Ethnocultural Officer, convenor of SRC Autonomous Collective Against Racism 2023
• Co-convenor of BDS Youth 20232024
• Women’s Officer, co-convenor of SRC Women’s Collective 2023-24
• Co-Editor in chief of Growing Strong 2024
• Editor of Women’s Honi 2024
• SRC Councillor 2023; Member of Grassroots
• Member of the SRC Education Action Group 2023 - participating in the NTEU strike campaign
• Active member of the Gaza Solidarity Encampment
• Member of Blak Caucus Allies; helped organise the 2024 Invasion Day protest
• Member of Palestine Justice Movement; helped organise ZIM protests, organised with trade union delegates and rank and file members
• Member of Students for Palestine
• Member of Students Against War
• Member of SUMSA 2023-2024
• Best falafel maker and Cat person
Ishbel Dunsmore Engineering/Arts V
Curriculum Vitae
• 2023 SRC Education Officer
• 2022 SRC Enviro Officer
• Organiser, USyd Gaza Solidarity Encampment
• RAFFWU member, 2021-
• Member of many SRC collectives 2020 -
• Old in a fun and not cringe way
Sidra Ghanawi Arts III
Curriculum Vitae
• 2024 Co-Convenor of ACAR (Autonomous Collective Against Racism),
• Member of BDS Youth,
• Honi Soit Reporter,
• Anti-racist Activist,
• Eco Bautista Liberal Arts and Science III
Curriculum Vitae
• QOCO President,
• Rainbow Cumberland,
• SignSoc enthusiast,
• Member of ACAR and DISCO,
• Ethnospace goer,
• Roller Derby Fanatic
Abdullah Sankari Arts III
Curriculum Vitae
• Bankstown Poetry Slam
• Community Organiser
• ACAR Member
[B] GRASSROOTS FOR FEMINISM
Policy Statement
GRASSROOTS FOR FEMINISM firmly believes that our campus must be free from sexual violence and we are committed to fighting for it.
As Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Officer this year, I have had the fortune of being actively involved in the Women’s Collective (WOCO). Here, we have done vital work such as organising a counter-protest to the Day of the Unborn Child, and working with the Greens to introduce a bill to parliament to overturn the status of the USyd colleges.
GRASSROOTS FOR FEMINISM knows the importance of having a radically left-wing feminist organising space cannot be understated
Sexual violence runs rampant on our campus and our university is completely apathetic to ending it, instead focusing on tokenistic gestures and PR stunts. At USyd, reporting sexual assault and/or sexual harassment (SASH) entails survivors being strangled by gag orders and little resolution for the victim survivor. In the Sexual Misconduct Annual Report for 2023 there was an 103% increase from last year’s 121 reports of SASH to 246, of which only 7 were resolved through assisted mediation. GRASSROOTS FOR FEMINISM calls upon the university to prioritise trauma informed, victimcentred justice.
An 103% increase is a symptom of the University of Sydney continuing to back and enable sexual violence and harassment by refusing to do anything about the colleges, where annually we hear of the horrific stories of hazing and harassment that take place in those halls. The USyd Colleges are bastions of misogyny, elitism, homophobia and racism and GRASSROOTS FOR FEMINISM is committed to replacing colleges with highly affordable student housing. We also recognise that students who have experienced sexual violence are more likely to drop out of university, which can mean losing access to their student accommodation. In our fight to abolish the colleges, we are committed to ensuring housing stability for victims of sexual violence.
Feminism is incomplete without recognising the importance of fighting for a Free Palestine. Right now, Israel is carrying out a brutal genocide of the Palestinians in Gaza, and women are dying. Pregnant people in Gaza are enduring C-sections in makeshift hospitals without anaesthetic or painkillers, while Israeli bombs rain down. In addition, the UN estimates that 700,000 Gazans with menstrual cycles have no access to proper sanitary items or clean water. It goes without saying that feminist liberation is inextricably tied to the liberation of Palestinians, and GRASSROOTS FOR FEMINISM is committed to centering Palestinian voices in this collective pursuit.
If elected, GRASSROOTS FOR FEMINISM will be a proudly progressive, pushing for:
• - A campus free from sexual violence.
• - The abolition of the elitist and sexist colleges.
• - A Rad and Pride Consent Week that recognises the importance of intersectional feminism.
• - Palestinian voices at the fore of feminist activism.
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR FEMINISM
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS
Vote [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
Vote [3] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS
RAND FOR PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES
Martha Barlow Arts/Law III
Curriculum Vitae
• 2024 SRC SASH Officer
• 2024 SRC Councillor
• 2024 SRC Chair of Standing Legal
• 2024 Law Revue Producer
• 2023 Law Revue Director
• Campaigner for 2023 SRC elections
• Campaigner for 2023 and 2024 USU elections
Georgia Zhang Arts/Laws II
Curriculum Vitae
• USU Board Member
• USU Debating
• SULS Competitions Convenor
• 2023 Law Revue
• USyd Netball
• Won Swiftsoc x Chocsoc Taylor Swift trivia!
Luca Lamond Science/Laws II
Curriculum Vitae
• Law Revue Cast 2024
• SULS Sport 2022-24
• I grew up in Albury Wodonga
• 6’3 and a feminist
Jess Snelleman Arts/Laws III
Curriculum Vitae
• Emergency Assistance Services Worker
• Multi-Instrumentalist Musician
• Director of Queer Revue 2021
• Font of ridiculous fun facts (like lakes and eels)
Erika Muir Pharmacy I
Curriculum Vitae
• Current President of Barbersoc (USYD A Cappella Society)
• Member of SUMS auditioned choir
• Queer Wasian Woman in STEM
• Passionate about mental health and disability awareness and accessibility
• Has been hyper fixated on the colour blue for 4 years.
[C] GRASSROOTS FOR FREE SPEECH
Policy Statement
GRASSROOTS FOR FREE SPEECH believes that the newly introduced Campus Access Policy (CAP) fundamentally infringes on our liberties, both as students and citizens, to freedom of speech, assembly, and protest. The free exchange of ideas is essential to the wellbeing of a pluralistic and democratic society, and now more than ever, universities must serve as places which foster productive discussion and change. While Mark Scott and the University management masquerade behind the guise of “protect[ing] the health and safety of our community” in their policy rationale, their draconian attempts to curtail our intellectual and civic freedoms represent a severe overstep of their mandate. The CAP is a blatant attack on the voices of those challenging the university’s complicity in overseas regimes of genocide and apartheid, all whilst plain-clothes police roam campus with loaded firearms. We do not feel safe.
GRASSROOTS FOR FREE SPEECH stands with all those who have been subordinated and expropriated by the Israeli regime, and understands that an incursion on the freedoms of ANY of our student community is a danger to the freedoms of our WHOLE community. It is essential that we DEMAND the full return and maintenance of our rights to expression to revive our institutional tradition of challenging the status quo and championing progressive ideals in social debate.
GRASSROOTS FOR FREE SPEECH stands steadfast against the university’s descent into neoliberal corporatism and big business bootlicking at the expense of pedagogical quality and student autonomy. As a public, stateowned institution for higher education, we find it repugnant that USyd management have exhibited such active hostility for the intellectual wellbeing of students through recurrent and austere course cuts, the cost-cutting regime of disciplinary mergers, and a tradition of anti-union staff casualisation. Meanwhile, the university’s surplus surpassed $350M in 2023, and $1.3B in 2021. We believe that MANDATORY and highly expensive ‘interdisciplinary’ units such as FASS1000/3999 not only patronise the autonomy and intelligence of our curious student community, but also represent a clear move to reduce disciplinary costs and force upon us the mantras of neoliberal capitalism and business-oriented ‘soft skills’ in order to bolster the university’s graduate employment statistics. A university that aims ONLY to make students attractive to the workforce is one that overlooks its core duty to foster knowledgeable, critical and original thinkers. USyd management reap millions from OUR fees - it’s time we held them accountable. In 2023, Vice-Chancellor Mark Scott received over $1.17 million in
annual remuneration, scoring more than the respective heads of Oxford, Cambridge, MIT, and elite global counterparts. In contrast, during its most profitable decade to date, the university continues to utterly neglect the financial vulnerabilities of a student community caught in a cost-of-living crisis. While selling off local housing assets to private developers, raising rent on scarce student accommodation, and protecting the morally defunct and materially opulent space-wasters known as the ‘colleges’, the university has forfeited their responsibility to provide affordable student housing. Further, despite proselytising a commitment to ‘equity’ and ‘opportunity’, university management ignore students’ calls to invest in affordable housing, subsidise reasonable food options, and provide discretionary respite for working students experiencing financial pressure.
GRASSROOTS FOR FREE SPEECH is a ticket run by rent-paying students, for rent-paying students who oppose USyd’s culture of neoliberal greed. We believe that housing and food are human rights, and that no student should be forced to choose between their basic needs and a holistic education.
GRASSROOTS FOR FREE SPEECH will:
• Advocate for the protection and discretionary expansion of simple extensions and special cons
• Push back against staffing cuts and class size increases
• Fight for concession cards for international students
• Demand that management take action on campus and housing affordability
• Stand with NTEU and USYD staff in continuing to oppose staff casualisation
• Demand that the university divest from unethical portfolio partners in weapons manufacturing and fossil fuels
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR FREE SPEECH
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS
Vote [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
Vote [3] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS RAND FOR PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES
Zane Ramey Arts/Design IV
Curriculum Vitae
• Member, Usyd Greens on Campus 2024-
• Member, Enviro Collective 2021-
• Member, Education Action Group 2021-
• Member, Sydney University Experience Designer Society 2024-
• Climate strike attendee 2021-22
• School Strike for Climate (SSC) Organiser 2018-19
• Striking and picketing against funding cuts 2021-22
• Goat wrangler & dirt bike enthusiast
• Frequent C&S over-signer-upper
• Noted Campus Bathroom Revolutionary
• Certified forklift operator
Leila Haddad Arts III
Curriculum Vitae
• Usyd Greens on Campus Member
• Program Facilitator for community groups including Department of Veterans Affairs and Wreck Bay Aboriginal Community Council
• Knife maker and instructor
• Fundraising for ACT Palliative Care
• Keynote speaker at YWCA annual meeting, ACT pharmacy guild women’s day, and WAW events
• Frequent protest goer
• Master sheep wrangler
• President of the Victoria Park Smoko Association (VPSA)
• Heavy vehicle licence possessor
[D] KOI for penta
Policy Statement
Organize intercultural activities
In the Language Partnership Program, international students are paired with local students according to their language learning interests, and “Language Cafes” are organized on a regular basis to allow the language partners to practice their language, discuss their learning experiences, and make more friends in a relaxed environment. In the International Food Festival, international and local students are invited to form teams to showcase and share traditional food from their countries or regions. Each booth can offer tastings and introduce the background and practice of the cuisine. In the Cultural Exchange Day, cultural booths of different countries are set up to display traditional costumes, handicrafts, literature, music instruments, etc., and an experience zone is set up in each country. Each booth will be hosted by a student from that country or a local student familiar with that culture, who will give a live explanation. This enhances cultural exchange and understanding, builds up friendship, and enriches campus life while cultivating students’ global vision and cross-cultural communication skills.
Job Search Support and Guidance
Alumni and Student Inbound Program, which creates a database of inbound opportunities in the Career Hub and collects and updates information on companies that alumni or current students are willing to provide inbound support to, making it easier for students to find them. Career experience sharing, set up a “Success Stories” module in Career Hub, invite students who have been awarded a certain position to share their application experience, interview process, and key factors of success, and provide specific advice; at the same time, set up an anonymous Q&A function, allow students applying for the same position to ask questions to their classmates who have already been successful in their applications, or organize an online question and answer session via email. An anonymous Q&A feature allows students applying for the same position to ask questions of their peers who have successfully applied for the job, or to organize online mentoring activities via email.
International
Student Rental Assistance Service
A list of certified agents with detailed contact information, scope of services and description of features is posted on the school’s official website and platforms such as the International Student Support Center. Include agents that can provide multilingual services to facilitate communication among international students with different language backgrounds. Negotiate with agents to develop flexible leasing
policies specifically for international students. For example, accept tenants with no local credit history and allow international students to use tuition payment records or school references in lieu of a credit check.
Add a women’s-only area to the campus gym
Set up a separate women’s fitness area that is isolated from the main gym area to provide a more private environment where women can work out without stress. And equip it with fitness equipment and devices suitable for women, such as aerobic equipment, yoga mats, dumbbells, etc. It can also include strength training equipment. Provide a more comfortable and safe fitness environment for female students and encourage more women to participate in fitness activities.
CANDIDATES
Norn Xiong Arts III
Curriculum Vitae
Hello! I’m SHIYING XIONG, studying Economics and Korean.
In my free time, I like Peking Opera, playing piano, guitar, and tennis. I’m outgoing and love making friends. I have experience organising society activities, including finding sponsors, organising activities and arranging staff. I also specialise in publicity and know how to make an impact through stalls, social media and posters.
I hope to continue to utilise these strengths in my work in the SRC.
I will contribute to the development of the SRC and campus life for all students. I look forward to working with everyone to create a better campus environment! Sihan Zhao Arts II
Curriculum Vitae
Hello, everyone. My name is Sihan Zhao. It’s my great honor to introduce myself here.
I am a third year student majoring in financial Economics and Accounting at the University of Sydney.
I have a wide range of interests and hobbies. I can play guzheng and guitar.
I have obtained the Guzheng Level 10 certificate. First of all, I think I am a proactive person with strong learning ability.
I can learn and accept new things quickly and adapt to the new environment quickly.
Secondly, I am a very organized person.
I know how to manage my time and organize my work.
I organize my work by priorities and deadlines, which allows me to be more productive.
I was also involved in volunteer work and community work in high school.
At the same time, my personality is very cheerful and full of vitality.
I like to get along with others and make friends very much.
Jennifer Zhan Science III
Curriculum Vitae
Hello! I’m Jianling (Jennifer) Zhan from southern China.
I am majoring in Financial Mathematics and Statistics.
As an adventurous and open-minded individual, I’m passionate about exploring diverse cultures and histories. This drive led me to study abroad, where I’ve embraced challenges and stepped out of my comfort zone.
Although I wasn’t very active before, I’ve grown to love sports and outdoor activities, which are therapeutic and energizing.
My involvement in campus activities and societies has enriched my university experience and honed my teamwork and leadership skills.
I’m eager to embark on a new journey with the student council, bringing my experiences and enthusiasm to serve our community.
[E] SAVE
ServicesStudent
Policy Statement
S - tudents A - dding V - alue for E - veryone
Many aspects of the student services the university provides are lacking and require improvement. These services should be made more accessible to students especially with the onset of online learning. Students abroad currently have very limited accessibility to mental health support as their support options are only open to those in Australia. These services are also not currently tailored to suit online learning with more that needs to be done to ensure student wellbeing is prioritised.
TEXTBOOK RENTALS AND SUBSIDIES
Almost every unit requires a different textbook for students to make the most of their studies, however many students forgo buying due to the hefty price tags and not knowing how often they will actually be used. Setting up a textbook subsidy and rental program allows students to make the most out of their course without the added expenses.
BOLSTERED MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
Mental health services at USYD should be accessible not exclusively to domestic students but also students who are abroad. With travel restrictions in place many domestic and international students are not able to be on campus or even in Australia. This limits them from getting CAPS support as call and text options are only available to those in Australia. It is critical to have international phone and messaging services available for these students.
INITIATE MORE MENTORING PROGRAMS
USYD mentoring programs are lacking compared to other top universities in Australia. Peer mentoring at the university should be more accessible to students with the ability to join not just during welcome week but throughout the semester and online options such as live chats. A “Study Buddy” program should also be implemented to allow students to connect with others in the subject areas. This can help connect students to like minded peers and help students who feel isolated and unmotivated with an online environment.
CANDIDATES
Ivan Samsonov Economics II
Curriculum Vitae
• Majoring in Advanced Economics and Political Economy
• Proud member of EconSoc
• Former national judo champion
• Have lived in 4 countries
• Sees the invisible hand
Kristina Grinko Economics II
Curriculum Vitae
• Was an international level figure skater
• Gymnastics coach for 5 years but scared to do a front flip
• Avid maimai player
• Max Wild Economics II
Curriculum Vitae
• Active participant in various societies such as EconSoc and FMAA
• Avid hiker and enjoyer of the outdoors
• Went to primary school AND high school
• Despite doing Economics, don’t hate the poor
• Excellent sense of humour
• Overall great guy
Aryan Ilkhani Laws/Commerce II
Curriculum Vitae
• Majoring in Finance
• Genuinely believe our uni needs to be SAVEd
• I eat pizza crust side first
• Coffee is bean water with a cult following. Tea >> coffee.
[F] Penta internationalforlink
Policy Statement
1. Help first year student to set their first step in university life
• create representatives from to guide students who are first year first semester into the university
• guide by telling exact first steps to get into university life
• including which website to use, how to acknowledge events, where to and how to find accommodation etc
2. increase accessibility and networking for university students.
• Have an official platform for students to engage, not only academically but also finding friends to hang out
3. Contribute for getting concession for international student
4. Improve global awareness by giving student chance to shine their culture
CANDIDATES
Anu Khulan Arts/Science I
Curriculum Vitae
I’m Anu-Ujin, an undergraduate
majoring in politics and finance. We’ve all experienced being stuck in a problem with no clear way out, and it sucks, I have seen this firsthand.
A Mongolian charity I led delivered 40 boxes of toys and stationery to kindergarteners in rural communities lacking resources.
The kindergarteners lit up when we delivered through the boxes.
I conducted mental health awareness lectures for 300 students, and worked for anti-abuse and SA NGO.
Everyone needs a helping hand and a voice to overcome challenges, and that’s our mission here at the university.
Serious stuff aside, I love volleyball, LOVE eating, prefer TikTok over Reels, and am both dog and cat person :).
Misheel Galkhuu Engineering I
Curriculum Vitae
My name is Misheel Galkhuu, and if you’re reading this, it means I’m running for election!
I know you might be buried in lectures and assignments.
But instead of stressing out, take a walk, clear your mind, and remember to vote for us.
When we all started our journey here, many of us faced language barriers. We want to help you overcome these challenges and make your experience here as smooth as possible.
A bit about me—I’m from Mongolia, and I can’t forget to mention my love for volleyball and sleeping (I’m pretty decent at it, especially the volleyball part!).
I have experience working as a volunteer, conference moderator, and in tech roles, but leadership is still a new adventure for me.
Thank you for considering me.
Aryan Sachdeva Arts I
Greetings, I am Aryan Sachdeva. I consider myself a dreamer and storyteller, one who rapidly thinks and asks why.
Because an osmosis always keeps happening within, drifting me between what is and what’s not!
With a relentless pursuit of excellence and a knack for innovation, I’m here to redefine the game.
My vision is bold, my determination unyielding, and my passion for change unstoppable.
Brace yourselves for a new era of leadership—one that will reshape the future and leave competitors in awe.
Keshav Beswal Engineering I
Curriculum Vitae
My name is Keshav Beswal, and I am passionate about serving our community. With 3 years of experience as a class representative in high school. I believe in transparency, accountability, and putting people first.
My goal is to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and that we work together for a better future.
I am committed to making better accommodation options available for new international students.
I ask for your support to make a meaningful difference.
Nirbhay Singla Engineering I
Curriculum Vitae
Hello, I’m Nirbhay Singla, a first-year Mechatronics Engineering student. We’ve all encountered challenges that feel overwhelming, and it can be tough to navigate those on our own. Whether it’s through sports like swimming, which I’m passionate about, or playing chess, which requires strategic thinking and patience.
I’ve learned the importance of
perseverance and teamwork. I’m also someone who loves talking to different people and understanding their perspectives.
I believe that everyone needs a voice and support to overcome challenges. That’s what I aim to bring as your Student Representative.
On the lighter side, I’m also a huge sports fan and enjoy connecting with others
Let’s make our time here memorable!
[G] STAND UP FOR ACCESSIBILITY
Policy Statement
“My name is Saskia, I’m a first year Interaction Design student, and I’m incredibly passionate about making our on-campus spaces more accessible for those with disabilities. As someone living with Type 1 Diabetes, I have witnessed first-hand the shortcomings of USYD and its student accommodations in including disabled students, both systemically and superficially during social events with societies, groups, and colleges.
STAND UP for Accessibility in Student Services
Ensure that the uni actively supports the transition of new disabled students to campus
Improve the accessibility of the disabilities portal Fight for increased free CAPS (counselling) sessions
Implement sensory friendly accommodation C&S events
Partner with the Sunflower initiative at Welcome Week
Increase nighttime lighting on campus
STAND UP for Accessibility in Accommodation
Fight for Student accommodation to organise mandatory in person training for first aid and harm reduction for responding to disabilities such as type 1 diabetes, allergies, epilepsy etc
Advocate for genuine disabilities support in student accommodate diversify dietary options in student accommodation and campus outlet to be more inclusive
STAND UP for Accessibility in Activism
Create an ‘accessible activism guide’ so protests are more friendly towards disabled students
Ensure SRC and SRC related social media posts have image descriptions and alt text
Launch a campaign for NDIS funding to be expanded Actively consult with disabled students and C&S disabilities officers in their activism Increase funding for the disabilities collective
STAND UP for Accessibility in Education
Create more nuance within academic plans to adapt to the student, not the system
Write an Oweek handbook to help first years with disabilities to navigate the campus and disability provisions
Ban the mandatory use of ProcterU in assessments
Advocate for the hybrid learning mode”
CANDIDATES
Saskia Morgan Design I
Curriculum Vitae
• Regular Film soc Irish exiter
• Voted most artistic at year 11 formal
• Diet soft drink appreciator
[H] COLLEGES for Students
Policy Statement
The Colleges: A Policy Statement The portrayal of colleges in the media as bastions of racism, misogyny, and elitism is a gross oversimplification that fails to consider the positive impact these institutions have on many students, particularly those from rural and disadvantaged backgrounds. While it’s true that colleges have faced challenges and must continue to evolve, the current narrative unfairly demonizes an entire system that provides invaluable support and opportunities to students who would otherwise struggle to succeed.
Highlighting the Reality:
A significant number of college students are on life-changing scholarships. These scholarships are often the only way these students can afford to attend a prestigious university like Usyd. For many, this opportunity is not just about getting a degree; it’s about breaking the cycle of poverty, accessing a support network, and building a future they never thought possible. The media often ignores these students’ stories, instead focusing on the actions of a few to paint an entire community in a negative light.
Support for Rural and Regional Students:
Rural and regional students are disproportionately represented in colleges because these institutions offer the necessary support and community that allow them to thrive in an unfamiliar and challenging environment. Moving to a city like Sydney can be an overwhelming experience for someone from a small town. Colleges provide these students with a home away from home, where they can receive academic support, build friendships, and integrate into university life. If these colleges were to be abolished, it would be these students who suffer the most, as they would lose access to the resources and community that make their university experience possible.
Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity Training:
Colleges are actively working to address the issues of racism, sexism, and elitism by implementing mandatory Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity Training for all residents and staff. These training sessions are designed to foster an environment of mutual respect, understanding, and inclusion. By equipping students with the tools and knowledge to navigate diverse social settings, colleges are addressing past issues and actively working to prevent future incidents. This proactive approach is often overlooked in the media’s portrayal of colleges, yet it is a crucial part of the ongoing reform efforts within these institutions.
Addressing the Misconceptions:
The current debate around colleges needs to be reframed. Instead of focusing solely on their flaws, we should be working to reform and improve these institutions so that they can continue to offer opportunities to all students, regardless of their background. It’s important to recognise that colleges are not monolithic; they are diverse communities that include students from all walks of life. By addressing the issues within colleges while also acknowledging their benefits, we can ensure that they remain a valuable part of the university experience.
Call to Action:
SAVE the Colleges is committed to advocating for a fair and balanced discussion about the role of colleges at Usyd. By reforming rather than abolishing these institutions, we can preserve the opportunities they provide to disadvantaged students. We call on the university administration, media, and student body to work together to create a college system that is inclusive, supportive, and reflective of the values we all share. By doing so, we can ensure that colleges continue to be a place where all students, regardless of their background, can achieve their full potential.
CANDIDATES
Alisa Rao Arts/Adv. Studies I
A Kiwi in Sydney! I Immigrated to NZ when I was 7 from China
Currently a FASS Peer Mentor and part of the FASS Communications Volunteering Team at University of Sydney
I love all performing arts! Dance, Musicals, Public Speaker, Drama and Debating
During highschool, I organised a TedxYouth Event, with over 1.5 million combined views online.
The event had 12 famous student and adult speakers including Albert Cho, Hamish Brewer and David Seymour. We also won some epic rewards like 18 Under 18s from this event.
I did and survived the IB! IB History Standard Level was my favourite subject :)
Freja Salt Arts/Adv. Studies I
I am from Perth, Western Australia! My Favourite Historical Period is The Russian Revolution
I am on the University of Sydney History Society Social Media and Publicity Officer | Executive Team
Lion’s Youth of the Year Winner of 2023
National History Awards Finalist of Western Australia and National winner of the ‘Democracy Matters’ category
Milan Ranchhod Science/Adv. Studies I
Curriculum Vitae
I have had experience working in multiple hospitality quarters such as FourSquare New Zealand, and Toy World Pukekohe
Waitered for private events
I enjoy sports and participating in outdoor adventures (I was in 1 XI Football, and Colts Cricket)
Received the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze, Silver, and Gold Award
Milan enjoys the the performing arts in Alto and Tenor Saxophone and Piano He loved being in King’s College New Zealand’s Premier Concert Band, Blues Band, and Concert Band
Received Half and Full Cultural Colours Gold award in Premier Concert Band Gold award allowed him to travel to Disney Land, Los Angeles to perform with the US Airforce
Grace Merrilees Science I
Head Girl of St Cuthbert’s College, Auckland, New Zealand
Outdoorsy and summer-loving, I love a good Row
Primarily STEM background but intrigued by all other areas of study and talent.
Home is in New Zealand, but currently enjoying a new phase of independence and discovery in Sydney Bucket list items include running a half marathon and an overseas immersive experience in China
I have the core values of respect, love, and understanding
I was the Vice School-Captain of Albury High School
I am dynamic and results-oriented professional in team management within a fast-paced up market restaurant. I worked at Dead Eddies’ and Greeted customers, ran the bar and restaurant, led teams into successful nights of service
I also love prepping food, opening/ closing restaurant, handling money, and noting weekly profits for the restaurant. I have a cat called Miko!
[I] GRASSROOTS FOR HUMAN RIGHTS
Policy Statement
There are no universities left in Gaza.
GRASSROOTS FOR HUMAN RIGHTS stands firmly for justice, human rights, and upholding the rule of law.
Demand USyd call for a Ceasefire NOW
On 24th of May 2024, the ICJ issued provisional measures ruling that Israel must halt its military offensive in Rafah immediately. Yet, the indiscriminate bombings of schools, hospitals, and homes continue, and 187,000 innocent civilians have been killed (Lancet, 2024). This is in violation of international law, a moral travesty, and must be called out for what it is: a genocide.
The NTEU, SRC as well as undergraduate students at the recent Student General Meeting have already expressed solidarity with Palestine, USyd must IMMEDIATELY head the demands of its community, and at the very least, publicly support a ceasefire. Fund Books, Not Bombs: Boycott, Divest, and Sanction GRASSROOTS FOR HUMAN RIGHTS calls on USyd to Boycott, Divest from, and Sanction (BDS) entities complicit in human rights abuses, particularly those linked to the military occupation of Palestine.
On the 19th of July 2024, the ICJ declared Israel’s occupation of Gaza and the West Bank to be unlawful, demanding an end to its settlements and occupation, and affirming that
Israel has been conducting apartheid. This comes 20 years after the ICJ also ruled that Israel’s construction of the wall in the West Bank violated the right of Palestinian self-determination and was in contravention of the Geneva Convention.
We believe that human rights matter, Palestinian lives matter, and international law matters. BDS is a peaceful method to pressure Israel into complying with international law.
GRASSROOTS FOR HUMAN RIGHTS demands that USyd divest from entities that are complicit in illegal settlement expansions in Palestinian territories, these include Amazon and BHP. We also demand the university cut ties with weapons companies, like Thales and Lockheed Martin. USyd should support justice and human rights, instead, it is complicit in global suffering.
Scrap the CAP: Defend Student Rights to Protest
The new Campus Access Policy (CAP) undermines students’ right to protest and express dissent. This policy stifles the voices of those who advocate for change, and it will disproportionately affect students and staff who express solidarity with Palestine. GRASSROOTS FOR HUMAN RIGHTS helped organise the unauthorised stalls day, demanding that management immediately repeal this shameful policy. We believe our university should be a space where free expression and peaceful protest are protected, not repressed.
Reject all forms of discrimination
We oppose all forms of racism, including Islamophobia, anti-Semitism, and anti-Palestinian discrimination.
GRASSROOTS FOR HUMAN RIGHTS is committed to an inclusive campus and believes that solidarity with Palestine requires a rejection of all forms of oppression.
There is no doubt that USyd must position itself on the right side of history. GRASSROOTS FOR HUMAN RIGHTS is dedicated to this vision through ongoing activism, protest, and solidarity.
We demand that USyd,
• call for a ceasefire NOW!
• boycott, divest and sanction companies and institutions which are complicit in human rights abuses
• scrap the CAP!
• reject discrimination
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR HUMAN RIGHTS
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS
Vote [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
Vote [3] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS RAND FOR PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES
Eliza Crossley Science/Laws IV
• Women’s Officer & co-convenor of SRC Women’s Collective 2024
• Feminist Anti-Racist Liberation Library co-convenor 2024
• SASH Officer 2023
• SRC General Executive member 2023
• Editor of Women’s Honi 2024
• Co-Editor in chief of Growing Strong 2024
• Law Revue Cast 2022-2024
• Law Revue Assistant Director 2023
• International Law pilled
• I like flies, especially hoverflies, I like hoverflies very much!
Alex McEvoy Arts/Advanced IV
Curriculum Vitae
• Philosophy and Politics/IR Major
• 2023/4 SRC Councillor
• Member of Grassroots
• tax positive like hoverflies very much!
Iris Brown Arts/Advanced IV
• Experience: Presidentv of UN Youth 2023,
• Chief Education Officer UN Youth Australia 2024,
• volunteer with Amnesty
International Australia Feminist Network,
• volunteer with Australian Refugee Volunteers Inc.
• member of Greens Party Australia,
• Honours Student in Arabic Language and Culture.
• Fun fact: Survived an earthquake
Holly Miller Psychology IV
• Barbersoc Director
• Muse Little Women the Musical
• 2022 Science Revue singing troop #yeahtherevues
• I can speak French!
Alana Ramshaw Science V
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae retiree
[J] SAVE Student Fees
S - tudents
A - dding
V - alue for E - veryone
The SSAF Dilemma
Students are required to pay the SSAF fee every year, and the fee promises to enhance student services and amenities. But what are we really getting? Have you felt the impact of this investment? For many, the answer is a resounding NO.
Rather than funding activities that can harm the university’s reputation, it’s time to redirect these funds to truly benefit the student body.
SAVE and Grow Our Financial Resources
We also noticed that the SRC’s cash reserves are currently locked in a term deposit. While this is a safe option, those funds could be better invested in long-term opportunities that generate passive income. By strategically investing, we can create a sustainable
source of revenue to cover SRC costs, reducing the need for future fee increases and allowing us to fund more initiatives that directly benefit students.
SAVE Student Life and Campus Community
University life should go beyond lectures and assignments—it should be a vibrant community where students can engage, connect, and thrive. We propose allocating a portion of the SSAF towards: Improving Student Life: Better funding for campus events, more affordable food options, and increased support for studentled parties and social gatherings.
Enhancing Campus Experience: By making campus life more enjoyable and accessible, we can foster a stronger, more connected student community.
SAVE Networking and Career Opportunities
Universities should be the stepping stone to successful careers. We propose that SSAF funds be utilised to:
• Expand Networking Opportunities: Host more career fairs and networking events that connect students with industry professionals, alumni, and potential employers.
• Support Diverse Career Paths: Ensure that events cater to various disciplines, helping all students build valuable connections and gain insights into their future careers.
• By prioritising student life and career development, we can create a university experience that genuinely adds value for everyone. Let’s SAVE our student fees and make a real impact on our future!
CANDIDATES
Connor O’Neill Economics I
Curriculum Vitae
• Served as Water Polo captain at school
• Served as Ecomarine’s ambassador at school
• Former property manager
• Helped organise clubs at high school
• Served as sustainability club coleader in school
Noah Holwett Arts/Adv. Studies III
Curriculum Vitae
• Team leader at Myers for a year
• Supervisor at Fox sports
• Captain of a basketball team
• Volunteer work at my local church
• I love dogs but could never have them because I’m allergic :(
Frans Kurniawan Economics I
Curriculum Vitae
• Served as a part of the studnet council on middle school
• Served as a committee for 3 consecutive year for school cup event
• Served as the vice leader of my 12th grade class
• Attended and won some Model United Nation competitions
Xavier Richardson Music I
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
• Selected for Australian Youth Orchestra
• Recipient of Henderson’s travelling scholarship to Finland.
• I love my cat so much that I bury my face in my cat’s soft orange fur even knowing I’m allergic.
• Work experience as a sales associate for Fossil and violin teacher and professional musician.
[K] GRASSROOTS FOR WELFARE
Policy Statement
GRASSROOTS FOR STUDENT
WELFARE is a ticket of left-wing student representatives committed to improving student services, housing and cost of living support, as well as fighting for an SRC that is staunchly in support of feminism, First Nations justice, disability justice, queer justice and anti-racism - because welfare for students and staff is impossible without combating any and all forms of oppression.
GRASSROOTS FOR STUDENT
WELFARE will support a large-scale campaign to save student access to five day simple extensions, which our University is attacking for the second time since they were introduced in 2022. I am proud to have been part of the team of Academic Board student reps that successfully shut down the Uni’s 2023 proposal to limit simple extensions to only 3 days.
GRASSROOTS FOR STUDENT
WELFARE will continue the fight to defend simple extensions, recognising that they are essential to helping students avoid the stress and cost of navigating the Special Cons system - particularly for groups that face additional barriers such as disabled students, international students and students living on lower incomes. Meanwhile, Uni management is overwhelmingly dedicated to corporate profiteering at the expense of student and staff welfare – these grotesquely misaligned priorities are starkly reflected in the Uni’s chronic underresourcing and underpayment of the academics and student support staff who make up the backbone of our University community.
A vote for GRASSROOTS FOR STUDENT WELFARE is a vote for an SRC that will also: Campaign to end the ‘CAPS’ University counselling service’s annual 6-session limit
Demand the Uni repeal its draconian Campus Access Policy which unjustly cracks down on students’ freedom of speech
Fight for inclusion and accessibility for disabled students and staff and oppose the Labor government’s NDIS reforms
Support all SRC collectives and fund student activism on campus
Prioritise the SRC’s ongoing fight for a Free Palestine
Support mutual aid projects and other forms of relief for students navigating the Cost of Living crisis
Fight for safe, affordable student housing
A vote for GRASSROOTS FOR STUDENT WELFARE is a vote for a fighting, activist SRC that makes a real difference in students’ lives and struggles, both on and off campus. It is a vote for an SRC that forces University management to be accountable to the interests of students and staff, not its shareholders or their bottom line.
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR STUDENT WELFARE
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS
Vote [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
Vote [3] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS
RAND FOR PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES
Grace Wallman Arts/Law IV
(she/her)
USU Board Director, 2023-25
USU Disabilities Officer, 2023-24
Inaugural SULS Disabilities Officer, 2023
SRC Welfare Officer, 2022
SRC Councillor, 2022
Welfare Action Group convenor, 2022 FASS Board and Academic Board Student Rep, 2023
Disabilities Collective member, 2022-present
Education Action Group member, 2022-present
USU Chair of Debates, 2024-25
Shameless, 2002-present
[L] LEFT ACTION AGAINST LANDLORDS
Policy Statement
LEFT ACTION AGAINST LANDLORDS
Is your rent too high? Do you hate landlords? Do you think more should be done to fix the housing crisis? Well Left Action Against Landlords is the ticket for you!
While we struggle to afford a place or even find a place to live, 164,624 homes sit empty every night across Sydney. Landlords are getting away with price gouging students and young workers. And, while our rents have gone up by 30%, our hospo wages are staying the same. We need real solutions and we need more activists to fight for them!
We are a group of committed activists who believe housing is a right. Housing should be affordable and accessible to all. Not an investment for the rich.
We think the SRC should run activist campaigns to demand real action from our university and the government. We established the Get a Room! campaign,
which called protests against the Reserve Bank, the university, and the state government.
The government and the university can and should be doing something to help address this crisis. The university needs to stop selling off its accommodation, and buy it back from dodgy companies like Scape and Iglu. The government has billions to spend on nuclear submarines and tax cuts to the rich, why don’t they spend it on housing people instead?
Left Action will fight for:
- Affordable student accommodation!
- Rent freeze & rent caps now!
- End rental evictions!
- Tax the property developers & corporations and limit investment properties!
- Build more public housing!
Vote [1] for LEFT ACTION AGAINST LANDLORDS
CANDIDATES
Simon Upitis Arts V
Hey! I’m Simon, I study History and Political Economy. I’ve been an activist on campus for a few years and have been involved in heaps of left-wing causes! I’m the current Social Justice Officer for the 96th SRC.
Students for Palestine member. I organised the Gaza Solidarity Encampment and the Student General Meeting to cut ties with Israel. As the SRC Environment Officer in 2023 I organised climate protests to cut the universities ties to fossil fuel companies. In 2022 I organised student support for staff taking strike action at USyd to demand better pay and secure work.
Lucas Pierce Arts/Advanced III
Curriculum Vitae
• Hi! I’m Lucas, I study Pol/IR and I think the SRC should be fighting for students during the cost of living crisis!
• Currently serving as one of the Refugee Rights Officers in the SRC
• An active supporter of Palestine and member of Students for Palestine.
• Campaigning against the genocide both on campus and off campus, attending the mass rallies on Sunday
• Helping to organise events at Usyd, such as the student strike for Palestine.
• Part of the historic Gaza Solidarity Encampment here at Usyd last semester.
• For months promoted, and took part in the incredible 600 student strong Student General Meeting!
• In 2023, campaigned against course cuts in the philosophy department and fought against the racist ‘Vote No’ Voice campaign.
• Participated in ‘Get a Room’ calling out government complicity in the cost of living crisis, demanding rent freezes and price-caps.
• Protested against the anti-LGBTQI+ ‘Religious Vilification Bill’
• Promoted and attended the ‘Illegal Stalls Day’.
• Defied Usyd management’s draconian ‘Campus Access Policy’, which curtails student’s right to free speech and assembly.
• Involved in activism for Palestine and a proud member of Students for Palestine
• Have been involved with and helped to promote the numerous School Strikes for Palestine throughout 2024
• Took part in the massively successful Gaza Solidarity Encampment at Sydney Uni.
• The Encampment helped to build awareness amongst students and the wider public of USYD’s ties to genocide
• Helped build and promote the Student General Meeting demanding that USYD cuts ties with genocide”
Ella Haid Arts/Advanced IV
• I’ve been an active member of Students For Palestine for several years.
• Helped to promote protests and forums on campus.
• Most recently took part in launching our campus’ student encampment!
• As the SRC’s 2023 welfare office I helped to build a protest campaign against the cost-of-living crisis In 2022 I helped organise student contingents to the staff picket lines as part of the Students Support the Staff Strikes campaign
• I’m a socialist activist who thinks students have a big role to play in fighting back against our enemies in university management
Holly Hayne Arts II
Curriculum Vitae
• 2020 SRC Global Solidarity Officer
• Promoted and took part in numerous solidarity protests in support of social justice movements around the globe
• Helped to organise the 2019 Uni Student Climate Strike
• Longtime advocate for a free Palestine
• Took part in student and staff picket lines during the USYD staff strike.
• A longtime advocate for free education and an end to the corporate university model
Curriculum Vitae
• Hi, I’m Georgia!
• I’m a socialist activist and I think the SRC has to fight for social justice!
• Involved in pro-Palestine activism.
• Including the Palestine Solidarity Encampment, the Student General Meeting to cut ties with Israel, and the student strikes for Palestine.
• Passionate defender of indigenous, LGBTQI+ and women’s rights
Oscar Dalkin Science VI
Curriculum Vitae
I have been involved in rallies for climate justice and Indigenous rights.
[M] GRASSROOTS FOR PAID PLACEMENTS
Policy Statement
Do you agree that: You should be remunerated for work. No student deserves to struggle paycheck-to-paycheck whilst studying. Governments and professional organisations are not doing enough to support students.
GRASSROOTS FOR PAID PLACEMENTS is a left-wing ticket agitating for paid student placements, made up of students heavily involved in the grassroots campaign Students Against Placement Poverty (SAPP).
Thousands of students complete unpaid placements across teaching, nursing, psychology, health sciences, medicine, social work and so many other degrees. Jobs that require placement are typically classified as essential work and contribute substantially to our society. Over the past decade, we have seen an increasing and excessive reliance on the unpaid labour of students completing their placements to fill gaps in these essential services. Whilst these jobs are essential, the students undertaking these placements experience unimaginable hardship. Students on placement are expected to complete hours upon hours of unpaid work,
whilst also studying and working part-time to pay for their soaring rents and grocery costs. Research from Unions NSW found that students are being forced to forgo $21,000 just to complete their required placements, not including the cost of studying a degree itself. As landlords continue to jack up housing prices, the financial strain and stress students find themselves in is at a breaking point.
The Labor Party’s response to the mass call for paid placements from Students Against Placement Poverty, student unions and trade unions has been pitiful. In the 2024 Federal Budget, the Labor government announced that they would offer a measly $319.50 means-tested payment for 68,000 trainee nurses, midwives, social workers and teachers. This is not enough. GRASSROOTS FOR PAID PLACEMENTS believes any and all students completing a placement MUST BE fairly compensated for the value of their work. We demand much more for students struggling in one of the worst cost-of-living crises in Australia’s history.
GRASSROOTS FOR PAID PLACEMENTS WILL:
Fight to ensure that ALL placements are paid
Demand that all state government placement providers (such as NSW Health and Department of Education) fairly compensate students completing placements, demand the Federal Government change their policies which prevent paid student placements
Push for the expansion of international student scholarships and other subsidies to directly support both international and domestic students.
Join the campaign calling degree accreditation bodies to reform their placement policies
Campaign to raise the rate of Youth Allowance and lower the age of independence
Fight for free education for all and the cancellation of all HECS-HELP loans
Advocate for increased flexibility in student life – from timetables to simple extensions, we believe the university must prioritise supporting students and staff Support First Nations justice and sovereignty now. Demand the government implement all recommendations of reports and Royal Commissions to make tangible change for First Nations people. Voice, Treaty, Truth. Make USyd Pay the Rent. Contribute monetarily to local First Nations organisations.
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR PAID PLACEMENTS
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS
Vote [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
Vote [3] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS
RAND FOR PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES
• @soft.connections on Insta
• Member of the Students Against Placement Poverty Team
• Psychsoc social director 2024
• Works as a child protection support worker and developmental therapist
Izzy van der Vliet Arts/Advanced Studies III
[N] Pharmacists for SRC
Policy Statement
At Pharmacists for SRC, we are dedicated to championing the needs and interests of healthcare students on campus. Our mission is to enhance the student experience by advocating for policies that address key areas of concern.
What We Stand For:
1. Affordable Campus Food: We believe that nutritious, affordable food should be accessible to all students. We will work towards reducing the cost of food on campus to ensure that financial constraints do not compromise your well-being or academic performance.
2. Paid Placements: Recognizing the value of your contributions during placements, we advocate for paid placement opportunities. This will alleviate financial pressure and allow you to focus on gaining valuable experience without the burden of unpaid work.
3. Mental Health Support: We are committed to improving mental health
services on campus. By expanding access to counseling, support groups, and wellness programs, we aim to create a supportive environment that fosters both academic success and personal well-being.
Why Vote for Us:
Pharmacists for SRC is driven by a genuine commitment to supporting healthcare students. Our team is dedicated to addressing the issues that matter most to you, with practical solutions and a clear focus on improving your campus experience. By voting for us, you are choosing a group that listens, understands, and takes meaningful action to make your time at university as rewarding and stress-free as possible.
Join us in making a difference. Vote Pharmacists for SRC.
CANDIDATES
Sonja Vujanic Pharmacy III
Curriculum Vitae
Academic Board 2024
Teach Learn Grow Executive Member
NSW Youth Advisory Council 20232024
eSafety Commissioner Youth Representative
Aishe Ghazzoui Pharmacy III
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
Rabiha Etri Pharmacy III
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
Lucia Wakim Pharmacy III
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
[O] GRASSROOTS AGAINST LANDLORDS
Policy Statement
GRASSROOTS AGAINST LANDLORDS is a proudly left-wing ticket that rejects a world in which access to genuinely safe, affordable housing is segregated along lines of economic class.
The situation facing current and prospective renters is dire. You cannot afford to live near the University of Sydney on Youth Allowance. You cannot afford to live near the University of Sydney working for minimum wage. You cannot afford to live near Usyd while complying with the 48-hour fortnightly cap on working hours imposed by a Student Visa. Gentrification means students are being priced out from living close to campus in SAFE and AFFORDABLE housing.
The experience of university life with all its trimmings, the kind that isn’t marred by financial stress, followed by an hour-long journey home on a delayed train or frustrated by a landlord with a maintenance allergy, is decidedly out of reach.
GRASSROOTS AGAINST LANDLORDS demands that the university put people before profit, with a resolute commitment to HOUSING JUSTICE for all.
LOW COST STUDENT HOUSING
Decades of anti-student, anti-renter policy from successive Liberal and Labor governments have lined the pockets of landlords and bolstered the profit margins of exploitative student accommodation companies, plunging a generation of students into housing insecurity. Our university is complicit – they charge upwards of $386 a week for a shoebox room with shared and overcrowded facilities in student accommodation and have sold off more than $70M of property since 2021.
Yet, the University of Sydney recorded a surplus of $351.8 million in the 2023-24 financial year. This means that they could charge far less rent for their student accommodation, and even make an attempt at responding to maintenance requests, but are choosing not to. GRASSROOTS AGAINST LANDLORDS will pressure the university to offer its student accommodation at below-market rates and treat housing not as a commodity, but a HUMAN RIGHT.
We quite like housing. In fact, we think there should be more of it. That’s why GRASSROOTS AGAINST LANDLORDS will campaign to reopen International House, creating an additional 200 places in low-cost student accommodation. We will also
push to stop further privatisation and closure of university-owned housing like the Darlington Terraces, and remain committed to abolishing the colleges. In their place, we suggest more affordable, low-cost student housing so that living close to campus isn’t just for those whose parents can afford it.
RENTERS’ RIGHTS
Housing is a human right, yet for renters it is currently subject to profiteering landlords and only accessible through a market geared against renters’ rights. This power imbalance means that it is practically impossible to enforce the rights you do have as a renter.
GRASSROOTS AGAINST LANDLORDS will advocate for increased awareness surrounding renters’ rights, and seek to provide aid and information to those who suffer at the hands of unjust rental agreements, unreasonable demands from landlords and extortionate rent increases.
LOWER COST OF LIVING ON CAMPUS
GRASSROOTS AGAINST LANDLORDS will push to lower the cost of living on campus, because nothing goes with the rental crisis like a $6 coffee. Buying lunch shouldn’t make you double take at the price, and the cost of essential items like stationery, painkillers and menstrual products shouldn’t be inflated far beyond what you’d pay off-campus. And yet, they are. We will work with the USU to lower prices across its outlets,
We will also seek to expand FoodHub’s hours and visibility of its services. It is absolutely essential that the services provided by FoodHub are made more accessible to students struggling with housing insecurity and financial stress. To facilitate longer hours, the USU must immediately start paying FoodHub volunteers. Everyone should be compensated for the work that they do.
Finally, rising rents and living costs are stifling campus culture. We oppose a world in which leisure is out of budget for the average student, and as such, we feel a sense of civic duty to host more social events so that everyone can participate in a vibrant, inclusive university life without incurring any financial burden.
GRASSROOTS AGAINST LANDLORDS will be a passionate voice for housing justice and welfare for all students.
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS AGAINST LANDLORDS
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS
Vote [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
Vote [3] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS RAND FOR PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES
Lilah Thurbon Arts/Laws II
Curriculum Vitae
• 2024 USU Debates Committee Schools’ Officer
• Miscellaneous domestic and international debating achievements
• 2024 Law Revue cast member
• Casual mooter
• Renter
• Uni life enjoyer (bring back mandatory student unionism!)
• Frequent “I grew up in Queensland” idpol-er
• Never beating the “shrill woman” allegations
Annika Wang Laws II
Curriculum Vitae
• USU Debates Committee
• SULS Judging Coordinators
• Regiment Student Accomodation Survivor
• International Student
• It’s so confusing sometimes to be a XXXX
Charlie Sayers Economics/Laws II
Curriculum Vitae
• Really good at making scrambled eggs
• Law Revue 2024
• Enthusiastic about keeping tampon stations full as well as macroeconomics
• 180DC Events Director
• 2024 Regional Heineken Pouring Champion (Score: 580/600)
Angela Xue Arts/Laws III
Curriculum Vitae
• I have a matching scarf with Lilah!! (not pictured)
• SULS David Benjafield Panel (SJ x Careers x Disabilities) Organisation
• Women’s Mooting Program Facilitator
• FASS Peer Mentor
• Also moots a lot (?)
Oliver Chow Psychology III
• A USU debater of middling quality (Lilah is better)
• In Sydney Uni’s Symphony Orchestra
• Have played 3 instruments
• Have extraordinary procrastination abilities
• Coach of a champion Year 7 debating team
• Own an unreasonable amount of lego
Penta for Mingle
• Support the expansion of the NSW transport card coverage to include all international students and commit to continued efforts towards this goal.
• Reform the campus cafeteria to provide students with a larger dining environment.
• Hire more caseworkers to assist students with academic issues.
• Establish dedicated scholarships for international students and increase the amount of existing scholarships.
CANDIDATES
Clare Liu Commerce III
Curriculum Vitae
Hello, my name is Kejun Liu. This is my third year at the University of Sydney and also my third year in the SRC. I have served as an SRC Councilor and as an officer in the International Student Collective. I have made significant efforts to advocate for the rights of international students.
We organized welcome parties and badminton tournaments for international students, as well as hiking trips around Sydney.
I supported the expansion of the NSW transport card coverage to include all international students.
Officer in the SRC International Student Collective.
As an international student myself, I am well aware of the challenges that international students face.
I have decided to continue working to better serve international students.
Bowen Gao Engineering III
Curriculum Vitae
Wow, I’m really happy you could see my self-introduction. I’m just an ordinary student at the University of Sydney, nothing much to introduce. Wishing you a wonderful day!
Kaitlin Tian Commerce I
Hello, I am Xinran (Kaitlin) Tian!
As an international student at USYD, I seek to advocate for inclusion and diversity. Currently, at the university, I am part of the AIESEC local committee. At this platform, I commit to connecting people with cross-cultural backgrounds. I love this role because I am passionate about cultural exchange and creating an impact on the community. I work as a volunteer in the International Student Collective. I have demonstrated strong communication skills within the group, to ensure the events we organised are successfully delivered. I hope you can vote for our team as we are keen to bring changes to real life.
Lily Yuan Commerce IV
Curriculum Vitae
Hi, I’m Lily Yuan, a Bachelor of Commerce student at USYD majoring in Economics and Finance. I’m originally from China, my journey has taken me across four countries and seven cities, shaping a truly global perspective. Now I’m passionate about how finance tells the world’s story through numbers. My studies have deepened this passion, while my love for arts and fashion fuels my creativity. These experiences have taught me the importance of diversity and inclusion. I’m eager to use them to help create a supportive environment for all international students. I can’t wait to make a positive impact on our campus!
[Q] penta for Nova squad
Policy Statement
• Provide more activities on mental health issues to students
• Provide a safe and comfortable space for marginalized minorities to communicate
• Implement a “transparency policy” so that students are clearly informed of the work progress and decision-making process of the Student Union
CANDIDATES
Hanni Wang Economics III
Curriculum Vitae
Hello everyone, my name is Hanni. I am enthusiastic about joining the student council because I believe in the power of teamwork and collaboration. I thrive in group settings and always strive to contribute positively to any team I am part of. In addition, I have a strong passion for sports, particularly badminton and swimming, which help me stay active and disciplined. I am eager to bring my energy and team spirit to the student council and work together. I am excited to work with you all to make our school a better place. Thank you for considering me!
Haley Yao Economics II
Curriculum Vitae
Hi, I’m Haley, and I’m passionate about balancing academics with extracurricular activities. I actively participate in various student clubs, where I enjoy collaborating on projects and organizing events.
Sports are also a part of my life; I love staying active and competing in different games such as squash. And I thrive on teamwork and new challenges. I’m always excited to take on new opportunities and connect with others who share similar interests!
Hello everyone, my name is Sinan Feng, and I’m from Shanghai, China. I’m currently a junior majoring in Electronic Culture.
Outside of my studies, I have a passion for cooking, where I enjoy experimenting with different recipes and flavors.
I’m also a huge animal lover. I have rescued several stray animals over the years, providing them with a safe and loving home.
These experiences have taught me the importance of responsibility and compassion.
I carry these values with me in both my academic and personal life.
[R] SAVE THE SRC
S - tudents A - dding V - alue for E - veryone
SAVE the SRC believes the current system does not work for or represent the ordinary Usyd student. The negligent management of student fees (SSAF) and endorsement of strikes need SAVING. We understand that most students just want to get to their classes without disruption and feel supported in their studies. This must be balanced with policies that don’t waste the hard-earned cash of all students on issues 99% don’t care about, but give students a tangible return on that investment. Currently, the SSAF fee is THEFT!
We’re all grateful for the wonderful opportunities Usyd has given us. Yet, we can strengthen the uni experience - not through the current system of wasteful spending and strikes, but through practical policies to help most students.
This is especially true in the current cost of living crisis. Why does a leading world university throw its students to the wolves when it comes to purchasing textbooks? Why does a leading world university’s enrolment and online help system more difficult to solve than the Riemann Hypothesis? Why does a leading world university provide little help to international students to integrate and find work opportunities?
It’s clear Usyd and the SRC need SAVING. Policies:
SAVE INTERNATIONAL AND INTERSTATE STUDENTS
We understand the difficulty for international and interstate students coming to a new state or country, especially when uni can be confusing and socially confronting for domestic students. We need more of a focus on integrating international and interstate students with the domestic student body and providing more opportunities to socialise and increase their professional network. This is because we are all equally Usyd students and should stand united. Additionally, we propose subsidised housing for international students to help ease their financial burden and ensure a smoother transition.
SAVE ACADEMIC SUPPORT AND TEXTBOOK BURDENS
We advocate for better access to academic resources, which should be expected at a leading university with high fees. The cost of living is rising and since we are already accruing tens of thousands of dollars of debt, it is comical that the extra burden of purchasing textbooks is put on the shoulders of students. This alongside the unavailability of niche textbooks in libraries and online access crashing with too many students during exam season needs SAVING. This is why we propose currently wasted money to go instead to textbook grants and textbook hire services as a central service in providing a uni course. Instead of focusing on strikes and activism that no one cares about, we will put students first.
SAVE THE ONLINE ENROLMENT PROCESS
We’re sure everyone else went through the pain of having to set up their Usyd enrolment after finishing high school, or with even more difficulty from overseas. There are multiple online resources that all give conflicting advice where trying to enrol for the first time is likely the biggest accomplishment of your whole degree! This leaves a bad impression on new domestic and international students, especially for a leading world university. Thus, we propose a simple and thorough online/video resource for each degree, created by students for students.
SAVE STUDENT LIFE AND CAMPUS COMMUNITY
University should be more than just lectures and assignments—it should be a vibrant community where students can enjoy themselves and connect with others. We propose that a portion of the SSAF be allocated to improve student life through better funding for campus events, cheaper food options, and support for student parties and social gatherings. By making the campus experience more affordable and enjoyable, we can help build a stronger, more connected student community.
SAVE NETWORKING AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Universities play a crucial role in shaping students’ academic and professional futures. We propose that the SSAF be used to fund more networking events and career fairs, connecting students with industry professionals, alums, and potential employers. These events, catering to various disciplines and career paths, will ensure that all students can build valuable connections and gain insights into their future careers. By prioritising networking and career development, we can help students transition smoothly from university to the workforce, a crucial part of our mission.
CANDIDATES
Om Karki Arts/Advanced Studies I
School Captain Sutherland Shire Youth Ambassador Youth Parliamentarian
My fav food is MOMOThank you for considering me!
Sandip Khadka Engineering I
Curriculum Vitae
“THE ONLY PLACES THAT I ENJOY IN THIS PLANET ARE “AIRPORTS” MY SENSE OF HUMOUR IS MY ONLY SURVIVAL SKILL
HOT TAKE: DUMPLINGS ARE JUST STUFFED VEGGIES AND MEAT “”””YUGHHHHHH…..”
FAVOURITE REASON TO VOTE: CLEANING UNHEALTHY RIOTS AND BACKBONE FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ON CAMPUS
Served as the class representative for two years
Looked after student’s concern, engaged in rural camps and organised the least boring events on campus.
Led team Nepal of 14 people to the Netherlands for the UN’s exchange program.
Engaged in discussions regarding SDGs, and global classroom initiatives.
Tutored mathematics and astronomy to 72+ underprivileged students from Kathmandu Valley for two years and initiated a Leadership Development workshop.
Have won multiple awards during Model United Nations at different places in Nepal.
The most interesting agenda to fight for was “Effect of Money Laundering in third world countries”
Contributed in Launching the first student made sounding rocket as part of Student For Education and Development of Space (SEDS-Nepal).
Ran various awareness campaigns on space literacy.
Curriculum Vitae
• Life goal is to be Justice Dawson the Second
• Hair straightening survivor and curly hair zealot
• Classical music snob
William Murray Science I
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
[S] STAND UP FOR A BETTER CAMPUS
Policy Statement
“Our university should be more than just a degree factory – it should be a vibrant, thriving community of students and scholars.
Time and time again, university management show us that they care more about profit than they do about the experience of students. We need an SRC that will STAND UP for the student body and improve the university experience for everyone. STAND UP FOR A BETTER CAMPUS stands for:
• More freedom for students to organise their own events
• More funding and attention for Manning House and other former centres of student life
• Less restrictive and overbearing management – the university needs to put people ahead of profit
Give us the campus life that we were promised. Stand up for a better campus today.”
CANDIDATES
Leo Moore Arts/Laws I
Kian Aitken Economics / Adv. Studies I
[T] FREE PALESTINE FOR SRC
Policy Statement
FREE PALESTINE FOR SRC is a formidable left-wing ticket committed to the struggle for a free Palestine. It has been 11 months since Israel began its brutal siege on Gaza. We have all witnessed the horrors of this onslaught, the bombing of hospitals, universities, schools, religious sites, residential areas and humanitarian zones. The peerreviewed Lancet journal estimates that 186,000 people have been killed since Israel’s latest attack on Gaza. Famine, disease and dehydration have stricken Gaza as Israel continues to block critical humanitarian aid from entering the Gaza strip. In the West Bank, violent attacks from settler gangs, supported by the Israeli military, have resulted in the death of 228 Palestinians. This is not to mention the 3,384 search and arrest operations, doubled from 2023 and the destruction and demolition of 643 Palestinian structures, primarily residential homes.
In response to the ongoing genocide, masses of working people have bravely stood up to oppose the governments and institutions that remain complicit in the apartheid and genocidal Israeli regime. Students, in particular, have played a crucial role, demanding that their universities cut all ties with institutions complicit in genocide. This includes weapons manufacturers supplying arms to Israel and academic institutions, like Tel Aviv University and Hebrew University of Jerusalem, who legitimise and actively support the apartheid state of Israel.
Our ticket, FREE PALESTINE FOR SRC, vehemently opposes the ongoing genocide and apartheid which Palestinians have been subjected to by the state of Israel. We demand that the University of Sydney end its complicity with genocide by severing its partnerships the academic institutions, businesses and weapons companies who have a hand in the dispossession and slaughter of Palestinians. Our tickethead, Harrison Brennan, spearheaded the Gaza Solidarity Encampment, where, for two months, hundreds of students camped outside the Quad. We demanded USyd boycott and divest from Israeli institutions complicit in apartheid and from the weapons companies who profit from the slaughter of innocents worldwide. In response to the encampment, the University of Sydney implemented the Campus Access Policy 2024, designed to stifle free speech, activism and campus culture, a policy Harrison, as SRC President, is actively fighting.
Harrison, as SRC President, was also responsible for organising and chairing the massive Student General Meeting in which more than 600 students voted to demand the University of Sydney to cut ties with Israel. FREE PALESTINE FOR SRC has also supported multiple
actions for Palestine, including the weekly Sunday rallies, direct action blocking Port Botany in protest of Zim shipping, and assisting the 24/7 picket outside Anthony Albanese’s office in Marrickville.
FREE PALESTINE FOR SRC recognises the fight to end the University of Sydney’s complicity in genocide and apartheid is far from over. VOTING [1] FREE PALESTINE FOR SRC will continue the SRC’s mandate to force the University of Sydney to divest. We will:
• Fight to ensure the University of Sydney cuts ties with weapons companies, namely Thales and Safran;
• Force the University of Sydney to sever ties with complicit Israeli academic institutions, namely Tel Aviv University and Hebrew University of Jerusalem;
• Make the University of Sydney divest from all companies complicit in apartheid and settlement expansion in the West Bank, namely Amazon, Walt Disney, BHP and others; and
• Protest and repeal the Campus Access Policy 2024, an outrageous attack on freedom of speech, protests and clubs and societies.
VOTE [1] FREE PALESTINE FOR SRC
VOTE [1] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS
VOTE [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
VOTE [3] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS RAND FOR PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES
Brennan Arts/Adv Studies IV
SRC President 2024
Lead organiser of the Gaza Solidarity Encampment 2024
Chair of the Student General Meeting 2024
Member of BDS Youth 2024
Member of Students for Palestine 2023-24
SRC Welfare Officer 2023
SRC Councillor 2023
Contributor of Counter Course 2023-24
Honi Soit Report 2023-24
Member of Grassroots 2022-24
Member of Philsoc 2021-2024
Double-spacing and Cambria fan
Pulp & Honi Enthusiast No.1 Lord Gladstone Supporter.
Hunter Finnigan Arts IV
Curriculum Vitae
• Participant in 2021
• Climate SGM,
• EAG organising (2021),
• Participant in 2024 Palestine SGM,
• PULP parasite, -
• Camping enjoyer (especially on campus),
- future philosophical martyr
Julia Miotto Arts II
Curriculum Vitae No CV Supplied
Milla Porter Science II
Curriculum Vitae
• Three-years living in England studying, running philosophy societies and coordinating meditation groups.
• Work at Aesop!
• Lover of absurd philosophers and female psychologists.
• I heart mighty boosh and Jane Austen.
• No.1 Harrison supporter.
Sara Pender Arts/Adv. Studies II
Curriculum Vitae
• Matcha lover,
• Greens enthusiast,
• General lover of green things.
[U] IMPACT FOR DRUG REFORM
Policy Statement
IMPACT for DRUG REFORM is a ticket of students who have been campaigning for drug reform in NSW throughout 2023 (you can see this campaign on @ usydlaborleft on Instagram). We believe that students are at the front of all progressive reforms in this country, and believe the government needs to address the injustices caused by current laws and move towards a harm minimisation model– Use and abuse of drugs is a health issue, not a criminal issue. Young people are the demographic most likely to take risks and use drugs– decades of ‘crime stopping’ and ‘deterrence’ have not been effective in reducing the probability or risk of people taking drugs. In fact, the stigmatisation of drug usage as ‘criminal’ or ‘immoral’ only serves to perpetuate shame, which feeds into addiction cycles. There are many ways USyd and NSW Govt can improve in this area. My ticket will fight for:
1. Free pill tests available in the SRC and USU outlets
2. No sniffer dogs at Someday Soon
3. LEGALISE IT
4. Turn Fisher into a Hydrofarm (jokes…)
5. Safe Needle Disposals On Campus
6. Welcome Week Information Session about safe partying
VOTE [1] IMPACT for DRUG REFORM
VOTE [1] ANGUS FISHER for PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES
Sophie Kristensen Arts II
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied
Henri Collyer Arts/Adv. Studies
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied
Remy Nettheim Science II
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae DJ SOCIETY
[V] IMPACT FOR FREE EDUCATION
Policy Statement
VOTE [1] ANGUS FISHER FOR PRESIDENT POLICY:
Fight to Reverse the Job Ready Graduates Package Campaign for Free Education & Cancellation of Student Debt Fight for 50% SSAF allocation to student unions Campaign for the return of Universal Student Unionism Campaign on Climate Action & Fossil Fuel Divestment
Fight to Cut Ties with Thales, Weapons Manufacturing and the Military Campaign to Re-Invest Uni Surpluses in Staff and Education Get Rid of EXPENSIVE OLEs Fight Against AUKUS Policy Statement: IMPACT for FREE EDUCATION unequivocally stands against the University’s continued movement towards a corporatised tertiary education sector. With the university placing focus on increasing profits, casualisation of staff, and massive salary packages for the university’s upper management, now it is more important than ever that students call for a university that values staff, education, and the future of our world.
IMPACT will help continue the fight to reverse the 2020 Job Ready Graduates Package that saw the decrease in funding for all students, as well as massive fee increases for students across faculties like Arts, Law, and Business. But we must go further than simply reversing the Job Ready Graduates Package, no one should have to pay to access tertiary study,
which is why IMPACT is committed to campaigning for free, fully funded university, as well as the cancellation of all student debt. We shouldn’t have to pay to attend a public university.
IMPACT will work to bring an end to the university’s dodgy connections with the fossil fuel industry, weapons manufacturing, the military, and for all university surplus to be reinvested into teaching and education. The university should not profit off our fees, or industries that contribute to the destruction of our environment or the military industrial complex. This means continued campaigning on Climate Action, as well as upholding the long held values that the student movement has championed since the Vietnam War days.
IMPACT will fight to allocate 50% of your Student Services Amenities Fees into real student unions like the SRC which have been decimated by Voluntary Student Unionism and incessant cuts. Your SSAF fees shouldn’t be going to corporate neoliberal bodies like the USU or their board executives – they should be going into bodies which will fight for students and their welfare; bodies which can actually campaign and provide for students’ needs in lieu of the lack of support given by management. On top of this, we will campaign to bring back Universal Student Unionism, scrapped by the conservative Howard government, so that student unions can actually make a difference in uplifting the material conditions and improving the welfare of students.
IMPACT will fight to remove the dreadful, unpopular, time and moneywasting Open Learning Environment (OLE) units so that students can get back to studying what they actually signed up for in their degree. OLE’s are a further measure the university has introduced that favour the corporate university model, profiting off our education.
On the 24th, 25th, and 26th of September, make sure you vote IMPACT for SRC, for an education focussed university!!!
VOTE [1] ANGUS FISHER FOR PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES
Gerard Buttigieg Arts / Adv. Studies III
Curriculum Vitae
History Society
Demsoc Society
In a band named after myself 2023 Young Labor Left Secretary
Annabelle Jones Economics / Adv. Studies III
Curriculum Vitae No CV supplied
Mikaela Pappou Arts III
Curriculum Vitae No CV supplied
[W] PENTA FOR SYNERGY
Policy Statement
Our aim is to empower international students by bridging the information gap, ensuring that we understand our rights and know how to defend them effectively. We will focus on continuously advocating for more rights and providing support for international students in various aspects, including academics, managing rent and living expenses, and enhancing social integration. Our goal is to foster a stronger sense of belonging and community, making our time at the University some of the best days of our lives.
Student Rights Consultation:
We’re broadening the scope of SRC legal services to ensure that students have access to consultation and support on everything from employment and housing to academics and career planning.
• Academic Support: Ensure that international students’ rights are effectively protected both on and off-campus. We’re pushing for more transparent and fair academic evaluation standards, and establish academic support platforms and appeal guidance. We will provide additional tutoring and resources beyond the faculty level, offering humane support to international students who may struggle with academic pressure, making sure no one feels left out or overwhelmed.
• Housing Rights: Advocate for better housing rights by establishing a Student Housing Rights Committee. This committee will provide rental guidance, legal support, and mediation services for rental disputes, all while
focusing on mental health, stress management, and resilience building.
• Student Feedback Window: We’re setting up a platform to hear your ideas and feedback, ensuring that our programs and events are always evolving to meet the needs and desires of our diverse student body.
A second-year student with a
for innovation.
My journey as the president of student clubs has deeply fueled my enthusiasm for student advocacy.
I have been involved in village revitalization projects and academic mentoring.
These experiences have shaped my drive to make a meaningful impact wherever I go.
Beyond academic excellence, which has been recognized with the Dean’s List of excellence, I’m committed to fighting for student rights
I will fight to create a community that thrives on inclusivity, energy, and shared success.
My aim is to bring our community together where every student feels their voice is heard.
International students’ rights should be upheld, so everyone can enjoy a vibrant and supportive school life.
Curriculum Vitae
My name is Yu Kefan, my friends call me Koko.
I was born and raised in Shanghai. Studied at Leeds for one semester, dropped out and transferred to the University of Sydney now. Aside from my academic journey, football
and beer are my biggest hobbies. You can always expect to see me on a football pitch and a club at the weekend.
In this campaign, I am dedicated to increasing more fitness sessions for international students including hiking, running, and gym sessions.
In these sessions you can build up your physique and meet new friends in a friendly atmosphere.
Curriculum Vitae
Hi everyone! My name is Connie Wong, a first-year Arts student here at USyd, specializing in Political Economy and Accounting.
A little about me: I love travelling, whether in cities or the outdoors
I enjoy spending quality time with my friends, family, and my pet rabbit.
This year, my three teammates and I are running for the SRC 2024.
We see it as a fantastic opportunity to give back to the school community.
We want to make it a better place for all undergraduate students, whether you’re domestic or international.
We’re here to address any academic concerns, residential queries, or workrelated challenges.
To keep it concise, WE ARE HERE TO SUPPORT YOU!
As part of the undergraduate community, I’m committed to making our time at USyd the best experience possible.
Come chat with us and support our team, ‘Synergy,’ in Week 9! We look forward to seeing you :)
Entong Cao Science II
Curriculum Vitae
My name is Entong Cao.
I am a student in Bachelor of Science major in Pharmacology and Financial
Math and Stat.
With a track record of leadership and service, I have had the privilege of serving as Class Representative in high school.
I spearheaded initiatives that improved student life, such as organizing “Student Career Development Consultation”.
My experience has equipped me with the skills to effectively represent students’ interests and advocate for meaningful change.
I have also been recognized with Dean’s List of Excellence in Academic Performance and University of Sydney Academic Merit Prize. Supporting my ability to balance my schoolwork and SRC work in the future.
As a membership in SRC, I will prioritize transparency, inclusivity, and innovation in all SRC activities.
My vision is to create a more connected and supportive campus where students feel empowered to pursue their passions. Together, we can achieve great things.
[X] GYMBROS FOR SRC
Policy Statement
FREE TREN
FREE CREATINE FREE PROTEIN POWDER
STATUE OF ZYZZ IN THE QUAD
The creation of a new OLE called “How to mew” as well as compulsory mewing sessions at the start of all tutorials so that all students can have maximum rizz.
CANDIDATES
William Khoury Engineering / Commerce II
Curriculum Vitae
• Studies a bachelor of “Breaking Bad”
• Likes fast cars
• Kebab and snack pack aficionado
• Sigma male gym rat
Tom Cleary Commerce V
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
• SRC ICAC Now!
[Y] IMPACT FOR REDHEADS
Policy Statement
IMPACT for Redheads stands for:
• Sunscreen availability across the University
• Lobby for tougher consequences against anti-rangas
• Create a support network for redheads wishing to dye their hair
• Ban the phrase ‘copper cowgirl’ for red hair
CANDIDATES
Jessica Heap Arts I
Curriculum Vitae
From Rural Queensland
Photography Society Member RANGAS Society Member Cat Society Member DemSoc Member
Olivia Hassey Education II No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae No CV supplied
[Z] PENTA FOR LEOPARD
Policy Statement
Policy1: The Opal fare increase that took effect on July 1, 2024, has caused significant concern within the student community. This 3.6% fare hike, driven by adjustments to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), directly impacts the daily commuting costs for students who rely on public transportation to travel between their homes and the university.Our policy proposal calls for the government to freeze Opal fare increases for university students. Students already face substantial financial pressures, including tuition fees, housing, and living expenses, and further fare increases would only exacerbate these challenges. By keeping Opal fares stable for student cardholders, we can ensure that education remains accessible and affordable. Additionally, we suggest
revising the current fare structure to offer exclusive discounts or subsidies for students. This approach would not only help alleviate financial burdens but also encourage students to engage more actively in campus life.Creating a fairer learning environment will allow students to focus more on their studies, ensuring that their right to education is protected rather than overshadowed by financial stress. This initiative not only benefits current students but also enhances the university’s appeal to future international and domestic applicants.
Policy2:We will introduce an enhanced shuttle service to better meet the needs of students and staff. Frequency will be increased on the shuttle route from Redfern Station to the main entrance of Fisher Library. In addition, two new stops will be added: one in the ABS Building and the other in the Social Sciences Building. Redfern Station is the closest station to the University, but students need to walk 15 minutes to reach the ABS, 20 minutes to reach Fisher Library, and 25 minutes to reach the Social Sciences Building. These long walking distances often result in students being late to class and spending excessive time between academic buildings. The new shuttle service aims to address these issues by significantly reducing travel time and providing students with a more reliable means of transportation on campus. By implementing these changes, the University seeks to enhance the overall student experience, especially for those students who attend classes continuously in different academic buildings. This initiative demonstrates the University’s commitment to ensuring a more accessible and efficient campus environment, ultimately allowing students to focus more on their academics and less on the difficulties of navigating the campus.
Policy3: Advocating for the school to provide a multilingual official handbook not only demonstrates the institution’s strategic foresight in a globalized context but also significantly enhances its appeal among international students. This policy can effectively eliminate language barriers, ensuring that nonnative students and their parents can accurately and comprehensively understand the school’s policies, curriculum, and various procedures, thereby reducing misunderstandings and information discrepancies caused by language differences. Compared to ordinary translation software, the translations provided in an official handbook are more fluent and easier to understand, avoiding issues with awkward or literal translations that can lead to unclear sentences. Additionally, a multilingual handbook will strengthen communication and trust between parents and the school, allowing parents to engage more deeply in their children’s education and offer
targeted support and guidance. It’s also worth noting that such a handbook can serve as an important resource for teachers and administrative staff, helping them better understand the cultural and linguistic needs of their diverse student populations. By implementing this initiative, the school not only meets the fundamental demands for educational equity and inclusiveness but also establishes itself as a leader in the increasingly global and diverse educational landscape. This policy not only broadens the school’s international student base but also lays a solid and extensive foundation for the institution’s future sustainable development, further enhancing the school’s international reputation and influence.
CANDIDATES
Curriculum Vitae
I am Mary Liu and I am a junior student whose major is economy and finance.
I am also one of the 96th SRC’s councilors after last year’s campaign. Also I has being on the position of international student officer in the 96th SRC.
I am in the student union as a undersecretary for the department of learning for the high school.
I was a volunteer in the activities of opal card concession for international students.
Curriculum Vitae
I am a sophomore majoring in Economics with a positive and energetic disposition.
I have a strong interest in campus activities and possess strong communication and teamwork skills. I efficiently manage multiple tasks and am ready to dedicate time to student council responsibilities.
Relevant Experience: In high school, I founded and led a film club.
We organised film screenings and cultural events, which enhanced my leadership and organizational abilities. I received a subject scholarship and won a gold award in a business competition. Additionally, I volunteered at a business competition.
I assisted with event organization and participant support, further developing my event management skills.
Yuxiao Guo Economic II
Curriculum Vitae
I’m YUXIAO GUO.
As a sophomore student at the Bachelor of Economics, I actively engage in social welfare initiatives alongside my academic studies.
As a volunteer, I have participated in numerous offline activities. Including visits to SOS Children’s Villages in Southwest China, providing care and support to vulnerable groups. These experiences have given me a profound understanding of the importance of social responsibility. They have inspired me to continue contributing to society in my future career.
Additionally, I was invited to participate in the recording of a variety show. Which not only gave me insights into the behind-the-scenes work but also expanded my professional network. These experiences have further enhanced my communication skills and strengthened my teamwork abilities. These experiences have shaped me into a well-rounded individual with a strong sense of purpose.
I am motivated to pursue opportunities where I can make a positive impact.
Johnny Shan Liberal Arts and Science III
Curriculum Vitae
Hello, my name is Johny Shan, and I am a young person full of energy and curiosity.
I am passionate about exploring new things, from playing computer games to engaging in outdoor activities.
During holidays, I often travel to broaden my horizons and experience different cultures.
I have volunteered in nursing homes, libraries, and the Terry Fox charity events.
I have also traveled to impoverished areas in China as a summer teacher, helping children expand their perspectives.
In 2023, I was appointed as the Inter-campus Officer in the Student Representative Council (SRC), responsible for promoting collaboration between campuses.
I have also participated in the Wharton Business Competition, Canadian Mathematics Competition, and the National Economics Challenge. These competitions have enhanced my teamwork and problem-solving skills.
I hope to continue learning and growing in the future, leading a meaningful and enriching life.
Hi, I’m Fan
In high school, I passionately led the Student Council as President, organizing memorable campus events.
I also spearheaded the International Perspectives project in the CanadaChina United Nations Association.
As an avid member of the Drama Club, I portrayed Scar in “The Lion King”. I diligently honed my acting, dancing, and teamwork skills to deliver a spectacular performance. These experiences, alongside my academic pursuits, equipped me with valuable skills and cherished friendships.
Moving forward, I’m eager to embrace new challenges and pursue my dreams with a positive, proactive attitude.
[AA] IMPACT FOR SRC
Policy statement
Hi everyone, we are IMPACT for SRC, a group of students experienced in campus advocacy. We are running because we believe the SRC is a body that should truly IMPACT the student university experience by working to achieve tangible and felt outcomes for all students through its advocacy, activism, and service provision.
SRC Services
Reopen in-person case-work service, enabling better connection with students
Restart $50 emergency loan service
Open applications for SSAF funds for events from ‘Student Weeks’ budget pool ($6000)
Mandatory in-person consent education program for all first-years, hosted by SRC
Fortnightly free BBQs
International Students
Concession opal cards
Annual Badminton competition
Abolish the cap of 48 working hours per fortnight
Hire another Mandarin-speaking SRC caseworker
Better treatment of international students at the SRC and USYD
Drug Reform
Free pill testing kits available in the SRC officesSrc
Ban sniffer dogs at Someday Soon/ campus events
Continue building the “Legalise It” campaign
We promise to put students’ interests first.
VOTE [1] ANGUS FISHER FOR PREZ
VOTE [1] IMPACT for SRC
CANDIDATES
Angus Fisher Economics IV
Curriculum Vitae
• SRC General Executive Member, 2024: Oversaw the day-to-day activities of the SRC.
• SRC Councillor, 2024.
• Member, Education Action Group,
2024: Participating and organising against the Campus Access Policy.
• Member, Welfare Action Group, 2024.
• Member, Students for Drug Reform, 2024: Participated in a forum with experts in the field and fought for the 2024 Drug Summit.
• Member, Students for Yes, 2023: Held regular yarn circles and campaigning day for the referendum.
• Member, USU Debating Society, 2022-2023: Chair Judge Easters 2022, USU Grandslam 2022 Grand-Finalist, BP Novice 2022 Semi-Finalist.
• Member, USYD BoulderSoc 20212024: Climbs V10 (pretty good).
• Member, EconSoc, 2021-2024
• Member, DemSoc, 2023
• FASS School of Economics Tutor, 2024.
• USYD Economics Honours Candidate, 2024-Ongoing:
• NTEU Member, 2024: Voted in favour for the Palestine BDS motion.
• USU Board Candidate, 2024.
• Social Sciences Building (SSB) Enjoyer, 2021-Eternity.
Eleanor Douglas Arts/Science III
Curriculum Vitae
• USU Debating Society
• USU Debating Worlds
• Honi Soit Contributor
Chloe Bosman Arts IV
Curriculum Vitae
• History Honours Candidate 2024
• Supreme Court Adoptions Coordinator for NSW 2023-2024
• BoulderSoc 2024
• HistorySoc 2024
• USYD Policy Reform Project 2021-2023
• USYD Sydney Scholar’s Award
2021
• History Honours Mentor Program Leader 2024
• Also nearly HD Wam 2021-2024
• Avid Courtyard smoothie enjoyer
• One (1) good shoulder
[AB] IMPACT AGAINST C.A.P
Policy statement
In response to the Gaza Solidarity Encampment established and removed earlier this year, the university shamefully introduced the Campus Access Policy 2024 (CAP) to punish students and thwart our activism. However, this Policy has not just impacted student activists, but has put student life on campus at risk. The policy requires students to apply for approval + give 72 hours notice to have a barbeque, society stall, play music from a speaker, and even hang a poster on a campus building.
The CAP has put an unnecessary barrier on students, staff, and members of our community, who all share this space as a place to gather and learn. All student life and activism have been threatened by this authoritarian policy.
IMPACT will apply a two-prong approach to scrap the CAP, by:
1. Utilising the SRC’s resources to directly protest the CAP through demonstrations, unauthorised stalls, and not complying with the CAP in any form
2. Engaging with University governance by using the SRC as a means of negotiation
This two-prong approach will serve to create an IMPACT Against the Campus Access Policy, creating genuine change for the student body.
Jonathan Gilliland Arts/Law I
Curriculum Vitae
• History Society Member
• DemSoc Member
• SULS Member
Curriculum Vitae
• DemSoc Member
• Young Vinnes Society
• Debating Society
• SUBSKI
• Sydney Uni Canoe Club
Maia Johnson Science I
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
• Book society
• Nursing society
[AC] penta for student
Policy statement
1. Empower Student Success with On-Campus Paid Opportunities: Create more on-campus, paid part-time roles tailored to students, offering meaningful work experiences that align with their academic goals while helping them manage the cost of education.
2.Forge Stronger Connections: Campus and Beyond: Build vibrant intercampus and interuniversity communities by organizing collaborative events, shared activities, and networking opportunities that bring together students from different campuses and partner institutions.
3. Revolutionize Student Transportation with Enhanced Services: Transform the campus shuttle system to offer more reliable, frequent, and student-centered services. Additionally, work towards making Opal Concession Card coverage universal for all students, ensuring affordable and seamless access to transportation across the city.
Enhancing SCR Connections Among International Students
4. Strengthen connections among international students, using various platforms, including WeChat, WhatsApp, and other social media channels, to organize student support activities and gather feedback. These efforts aim to ensure that meet the needs of the undergraduate student community.
CANDIDATES
Ethan Cao Engineering II
Curriculum Vitae
• Hi there, I’m Hongyuze Cao, a second-year Engineering student passionate about hiking.
• I’ve been involved in international student collective(ISO) and as a volunteer who support the Fair Fares.
• Which benefit part-time and international students in NSW by advocating for student inclusion in the transport concession scheme.
• I’ve seen firsthand the challenges faced by part-time and international students.
• My advocacy work has always been driven by a commitment to fairness and equal access.
• Now, I’m running for the SRC.
• I want to make our campus a more inclusive and supportive community for everyone.
• I want to ensure all students feel supported and valued.
• Let’ s make our campus a place where everyone belongs.
Luming Xu Engineering I
Curriculum Vitae
• Hello everyone, I’m Luming Xu.
• I’m doing Bachelor of Engineering, and my major is Electrical Engineering. Now it’s my first year.
• I worked as a volunteer in SRC to apply for the concession opal card for international students in NSW.
• And we got 20000 petitions for this event in quite a few days.
• Also I’ve organized some hiking activities with my teammates for students in USYD and it receives a good response.
• For this campaign I hope I can get a position in SRC to help more international students.
Zhuoyou Li Science II
Curriculum Vitae
• My name is Zhuoyou Li. And now I’m learning computer science in year 1.
• I’m good at playing sports. For example, I enjoy playing football and golf.
• Also I’m a runner and I’m crazy about running. It helps me balance my busy school life.
• I believe that communication and cooperation are the keys to achieving common goals.
• So I am looking forward to communicating and working with you all.
• I hope that in the coming time, we can learn from each other, support each other, and achieve better results.
[AD] GRASSROOTS DISABILITY JUSTICE
Policy statement
GRASSROOTS
DISABILITY
JUSTICE is a passionate ticket, fighting for disabilities representation, destigmatisation and justice on campus and beyond. We acknowledge that oppression occurs across multiple axes, whether that be race, class, ability, or gender and we are committed to fighting for liberation for all. As such, there is no disability justice without First Nations justice and a Free Palestine.
We believe capitalism is an inherently ableist economic system that pushes unjust expectations of work and ability upon people and fosters a culture of discrimination against disabled people. GRASSROOTS FOR DISABILITY JUSTICE rejects these systems of capitalism and imperialism, and looks to create a better world for all people.
GRASSROOTS FOR DISABILITY
JUSTICE condemns both the Liberal and Labor party for their shocking disability policies which have wrought significant harm to disabled people across the country. The NDIS is set to suffer under Bill Shorten and the
current federal Labor government’s austerity measures, a continuation of the legacy of the Liberal party. Their lack of response to the Disability Royal Commission is insulting, with the Labor government accepting only 13 of the 172 recommendations in full and supporting another 117 “in principle”. The Labor government is refusing to phase out special schools, group homes and segregated employment, and are failing to implement a comprehensive National Education Roadmap. GRASSROOTS FOR DISABILITY JUSTICE will maintain a strongly oppositional approach to those in power perpetuating this harm.
GRASSROOTS FOR DISABILITY
JUSTICE wants to make a SAFE and ACCESSIBLE tertiary education system for all students. We know and have experienced the alarming lack of adequate services for disabilities, both at USyd and throughout the institutions of so-called Australia. We have personally struggled to access these services, because their opaque nature often leaves the people who need them, totally in the dark.
GRASSROOTS FOR DISABILITY
JUSTICE believes that there is an ableist precedent that only those who have received an official diagnosis can access these services properly. Those who have discovered or acquired their disability whilst at uni, are out of luck if they cannot afford the exorbitant fees for an external assessment. Yet, the University offers little for supporting disabled people.
GRASSROOTS FOR DISABILITY
JUSTICE stand in solidarity with the NTEU and SUPRA and in complete solidarity with our staff and fellow students against USyd management’s attacks on our living, study and work conditions. We oppose management’s decision to fire Dr Niko Tiliopoulos from the Psychology Department due to his disability that prevented him from teaching in-person classes.
GRASSROOTS FOR DISABILITY
JUSTICE is committing to:
- Building up the SRC Disabilities Collective and campaigns across the SRC, SUPRA, and National Union of Students
- Saving 5-day simple extensions from management’s attempts to cut them again!
- Initiating and dispersing studentled surveys and an anonymous tip forms to identify where students are struggling with ableism and inaccessibility at USyd
- Improving access to information and resources related to special considerations and provisions
- Justice for Dr Niko and fighting all ableist attacks on staff
- Fighting for proactive disability service provision and disability assessment at USyd
- Working with grassroots disability
justice groups on campaigns and to find accessible options to get involved with activism, such as with Crips Contra Colonialism and their eVigils for victims of colonialism across the world
- Continuing the campaign of Disability Justice x Palestinian Liberation!
- Bringing radical left-wing politics to NUS Disabilities Conference 2024, holding the Labor government to account
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR DISABILITY JUSTICE
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS
Vote [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
Vote [3] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS
RAND FOR PRESIDENT and gather feedback. These efforts aim to ensure that meet the needs of the undergraduate student community.
CANDIDATES
Remy Lebreton Social Work/Arts I
Curriculum Vitae
• (He/They)
• Passionate first year Social work and arts student;
• Majoring In sociology and anthropology;
• Was a nursing student;
• Has personal experience with disability, specifically Autism, ADHD and Specific Language disorder;
• Passionate about social justice and building a better world for many years now;
• Many a poster run has been ran;
• Worked as an NDIS coordination of supports;
• Huge nerd; Love me some kino films, and a late night DnD game;
• Ready to fight for you at the drop of a hat, tell me your issues!
• From southcoast, up the gong;
• Simple extension connoisseur;
• Keen bushwalker; Adorer of mushrooms, ponderer of trees;
• C.A.P scrapper.
• Has the goated ticketmates!
Vince Tafea Science III
Curriculum Vitae
• Psychology & Statistics major going into my 4th year;
• From Penrith (eshayzz; up da panthers brah 4peat soon);
• Have lived experience of mental illness and disability being on the psychotic spectrum;
• Worked as a disability support worker (2021 - 2022);
• Called upon by my boy Remy Lebreton to bring my lived experience and #wisdom.
• His name is Remy LeBron to me; another GOAT.
• This fancy-schmancy SRC stuff is new (and previously anathema) but I’ll fight for yall; I put that on the DSM-5-TR.
• USYD Psychology Society 1st Year Rep (2022),
• Creative Director (2023)
• 3rd Year Rep (2024)
• I’m better at gaming than Caleb (IYKYK); 1v1 stardew valley.
• If you’re a psych student that has beef with the school lmk.
• Full disclosure; Dr Dan Costa and Dr Niko Tiliopoulos (free him) are my idols.
• Ready to destroy all (de facto) ableist/classist measures such as mandatory lecture attendance with FACTS and LOGIC.
• I produce and sing r&b, so slowjam diss tracks otw (solo.to/ vincetafea).
Sofia Angelini Arts/Adv. Studies II
Curriculum Vitae
• Royal Rehab, volunteered there for three years helping to run a choir for people with severe brain and spinal injuries;
• I’ve fallen off rock climbing walls more times than Ive ever submitted an assessment early;
• Interned at Justice Action for a year helping to write for and
organise the NSW inquiry for mental health.
• The ticket head is my friend!
• I have a WWCC for teaching, not sure thats a qualification?
• I don’t like long lists
Aron Khuc Social Work I
Curriculum Vitae
• USyd Education and Social Work Society Member (2024);
• My Sydney Scholar (2024);
• Advocate for all Social Justice issues;
• Avid Romance reader;
• Born and Proud Western Sydney Sider;
• Secretly unhinged;
• NOT an arsonist.
Khanh Tran Arts/Law IV
No photo supplied. Curriculum Vitae
• Cripcore;
• Disabilities Collective Member since 2022;
• To the person reading this Election Soit in 2040, welcome to the greatest generation of activists ever.
[AE] COLLEGES FOR SRC
Policy statement
The portrayal of colleges in the media as bastions of racism, misogyny, and elitism is a gross oversimplification that fails to consider the positive impact these institutions have on many students, particularly those from rural and disadvantaged backgrounds. While it’s true that colleges have faced challenges and must continue to evolve, the current narrative unfairly demonizes an entire system that provides invaluable support and opportunities to students who would otherwise struggle to succeed.
Highlighting the Reality:
A significant number of college students are on life-changing scholarships. These scholarships are often the only way these students can afford to attend a prestigious university like Usyd. For many, this opportunity is not just about getting a degree; it’s about breaking the cycle of poverty, accessing a support network, and building a future they never thought possible. The media often ignores these students’ stories,
instead focusing on the actions of a few to paint an entire community in a negative light.
Support for Rural and Regional Students:
Rural and regional students are disproportionately represented in colleges because these institutions offer the necessary support and community that allow them to thrive in an unfamiliar and challenging environment. Moving to a city like Sydney can be an overwhelming experience for someone from a small town. Colleges provide these students with a home away from home, where they can receive academic support, build friendships, and integrate into university life. If these colleges were to be abolished, it would be these students who suffer the most, as they would lose access to the resources and community that make their university experience possible.
Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity Training:
Colleges are actively working to address the issues of racism, sexism, and elitism by implementing mandatory Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity Training for all residents and staff. These training sessions are designed to foster an environment of mutual respect, understanding, and inclusion. By equipping students with the tools and knowledge to navigate diverse social settings, colleges are addressing past issues and actively working to prevent future incidents. This proactive approach is often overlooked in the media’s portrayal of colleges, yet it is a crucial part of the ongoing reform efforts within these institutions.
Addressing the Misconceptions:
The current debate around colleges needs to be reframed. Instead of focusing solely on their flaws, we should be working to reform and improve these institutions so that they can continue to offer opportunities to all students, regardless of their background. It’s important to recognize that colleges are not monolithic; they are diverse communities that include students from all walks of life. By addressing the issues within colleges while also acknowledging their benefits, we can ensure that they remain a valuable part of the university experience.
Call to Action:
SAVE the Colleges is committed to advocating for a fair and balanced discussion about the role of colleges at Usyd. By reforming rather than abolishing these institutions, we can preserve the opportunities they provide to disadvantaged students. We call on the university administration, media, and student body to work together to create a college system that is inclusive, supportive, and reflective of the values we all share. By doing so, we can ensure that colleges continue to be a place where all students, regardless of their background, can achieve their full potential.
CANDIDATES
Bea McDonald Arts/Law I
Curriculum Vitae
• Sydney University National Surf Team
• Head of Public Speaking
• I’m not a bee, I’m a human
Fin Shepard Commerce I
Curriculum Vitae
• Work at a sick bar
• Coach rowing
IV
Curriculum Vitae
• English and Biology Tutor (3.5 years).
• Successfully tutored students aged 9-18 in English and Biology, achieving consistent academic improvement and strong exam results.
• Bronze Medallion Holder: Certified in lifesaving and water safety skills, demonstrating commitment to community service and personal responsibility.
• Daniel and Natalie Knoll Award: For outstanding determination and tenacity in high school, reflecting a strong work ethic and resilience.
• Published Writer: Contributed newspaper articles, showcasing
strong writing skills and an ability to engage with diverse audiences on important topics.
• Aged Care: Worked and volunteered in nursing homes, providing compassionate care and support to elderly residents.
• Working in aged care reflected a deep commitment to social responsibility and community involvement.
Luka Fon Arts/Adv. Studies II No photo supplied. Curriculum Vitae No CV supplied.
[AF] GRASSROOTS FOR STUDENT HOUSING
Policy statement
GRASSROOTS FOR STUDENT HOUSING is a ticket of left-wing students, who understand the egregious state of student accommodation and are fighting for housing justice.
This year, I have had the privilege of being a USyd Student Housing Officer and have seen first hand the appalling state of student accommodation on this campus. I have also been heavily involved in the Students Against Placement Poverty campaign to ensure that students are paid a livable wage for the mandatory placements that they must complete for degrees such as teaching, nursing, and social work.
Now more than ever, students are being priced out of accomodation due to a rental crisis created by successive governments which prioritise the profits of property developers and landlords over the needs of students and workers. For over a decade now, the state and federal government, be it Labor or Liberal, have shamefully abdicated any responsibility to provide safe, affordable and secure housing. When the Liberals were in power, the NSW state government sold off over $3 billions worth of public housing, and this new Labor government is continuing this agenda, privatising and demolishing public homes.
GRASSROOTS FOR STUDENT HOUSING is not beholden to party memberships and is committed to agitating against Labor’s policies that have brought about this housing crisis.
Not only is Labor at fault, but also our University who has sold off most of its student accommodation to private vendors. These providers, such as UniLodge, Scape and Iglu, charge astronomically high rates and provide abominably low living standards. Currently, the cheapest universityrun student accommodation costs almost $400/week, showcasing how our university exploits domestic and international students alike.
CANDIDATES
Sofija Filipovic Science IV
Curriculum Vitae
• 2024 Councillor
• Student Housing Officer
• Honours Student in Reproductive biology
• Member of WoCo
• Travelled to 35 countries
• Serbian
Shandyl Varma Science IV
Curriculum Vitae No CV supplied.
Nick McAndrew Science IV
Curriculum Vitae
• Member of SciSoc
• Member of CatSoc
• Member of QUEST
• In a toxic relationship with Courtyard gnocchi
• Addicted to honey soy crosswords
Jessi Anderson Science III
Curriculum Vitae
• Environmental advocate and scientist
• Keen rock climber and outdoorsperson.
[AG] INTERNATIONAL STUDENT RIGHTS
Policy statement
Inflation is so high, rent around Uni is so unaffordable, and Uni is too hard to commute!
I proposed 1. Extend and enhance the Shuttle Buses to and from Redfern Station. 2. Systematic change of Student Parking. 3. Discount Student Fare Opal Card for International Students.
I will advocate for better work-life balance support, particularly for parttime and international students facing significant challenges. Our campus living conditions are limited, fees are high, and there’s a lack of casual daytime rest areas. Discrimination against parttime and international students must end. Together, we can create an inclusive environment where every student feels valued and supported. Let’s work collectively to transform our university into a more equitable and accessible place for all.
CANDIDATES
Aaron Zhang Science/Adv. Studies I
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
Tianlong Chen
Liberal Arts and Science II No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae No CV supplied.
Qianzhe Wei
Liberal Arts and Science II
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae No CV supplied.
[AH] HOT GIRLS FOR SRC
Policy statement
Our premise is simple: some people want hot girls OUT of SRC, we want hot girls IN SRC
CANDIDATES
Jasmine Donnelly Arts II
Curriculum Vitae
• Currently the Vice President of the SRC, pioneer for Hot Girls everywhere
Rose Donnelly Arts IV
Curriculum Vitae
• Currently the General Secretary of the SRC, pioneer for Hot Girls everywhere
Kirita Geeves
Design II
Curriculum Vitae
• Currently a certified full time slay, pioneer for Hot Girls everywhere
[AI] IMPACT FOR ACADEMIC WELFARE
Policy statement
IMPACT for ACADEMIC WELFARE is a trio of students advocating for better study conditions for students. Right now, students are struggling through online courses, spending thousands of dollars on a non-interactive educational space. This is partly due to the insane staff-student ratios at Sydney Uni, which has had the lowest number of academic staff in years at 16-21 students per staff member. This can’t go on– students need to be able to be supported by their teachers and staff should be reimbursed for the time that takes.
The presidential candidate my ticket is supporting, Angus Fisher, is a tutor at USyd (teaching 2nd year econometrics), as well as an Economics Honours student and can help bridge that gap between staff and students. Alongside him, my ticket will work with the USYD branch of the NTEU (National Tertiary Education Union) on campaigns and actions to improve academic welfare of students.
Additionally, the SRC needs to do more in accommodating international students in their transition to university. Last year under the brand Revive, we campaigned on hiring another Mandarin speaking caseworker in the SRC and successfully implemented that in 2023. My ticket proposes the SRC provide translated SRC material for non-English speaking students at welcome week and run ESL friendly workshops to help spread the word about the academic support available to students at the SRC.
Also, end ProctorU in favour of take home assignments.
If you’re tired ASF and want to escape that feeling of drowning in assignments, then vote:
[1] IMPACT for ACADEMIC WELFARE
[1] ANGUS FISHER for SRC PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES
Daniel Holland Arts II
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
Ned Graham Arts/Adv. Studies II
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
Diva Sethi Science II Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
[AJ] GRASSROOTS FOR FREE EDUCATION
Policy statement
THE COMMODIFICATION OF EDUCATION
GRASSROOTS FOR FREE EDUCATION opposes the continued commodification of higher education occurring in this country. The Job-ready Graduates package — which skyrocketed the cost of many degrees — has only further degraded the quality of higher education. GRASSROOTS FOR FREE EDUCATION demands education to be FULLY FUNDED and FREE for all students. The choice to pursue higher education should not be hamstrung by the burden of exorbitant fees. It is hard to believe that tertiary education was once free in this country — we should fight to make it free again.
INTERDISCIPLINARY COURSES AND OLES
The University has instituted more mandatory generalised and “interdisciplinary” courses from undergraduate to honours-level study. Furthermore, mandatory OLE units are nothing more than a blatant cash grab to be recycled year on year. This year I have been forced to take 2 interdisciplinary units as part of my two majors and 12 units of OLEs; these units are not designed for student education
but are simply cheap marketing tricks for the corporate university. Without them students could have 4 extra units for their major and/or free electives.
UNPAID PLACEMENTS
The corporatisation of tertiary education is even more salient when looking toward unpaid placements. Undergraduate and honours students are required to work unpaid nine to five for up to 500 hours, whilst paying exorbitant fees for their degree. It puts students under extreme stress and financial precarity, especially amidst a ballooning cost-of-living crisis. Starting next year, students doing placements in certain subjects will be paid $300 a week, this measly $8 an hour promised by the Labor government will do little to help students being screwed over. GRASSROOTS FOR FREE EDUCATION demands that students are compensated for their work, and more broadly, that education is fee-free for all.
COURSE CUTS
In their pursuit of profit, USyd management have continued to make sweeping cuts to undergraduate and postgraduate studies which have severely limited the quality and breadth of subject choices and majors. This year, the university is planning on gutting the philosophy major — merging no less than 25 units into just 6. The University of Sydney is also culpable for gutting the working conditions of educators and researchers, eroding the integrity and quality of the higher education we pay for. GRASSROOTS FOR FREE EDUCATION demands USyd STOP failing its students and staff by rolling back the vicious cuts they’ve implemented and halt any further plans of doing so.
THE LABOR GOVERNMENT
Whilst the Morrison Liberal government passed the Job-ready Graduates Package in 2020, which egregiously hiked tertiary education fees, the current Albanese-Labor government remains an accomplice in the corporatisation of education, refusing to overturn the damaging policies that have been implemented. What this shows is that the Labor government does NOT prioritise students, and GRASSROOTS FOR FREE EDUCATION, being proudly independent from the Liberal or Labor parties, is best suited to fearlessly and tirelessly calling out Labor’s incompetence on education and beyond.
All in all, GRASSROOTS FOR FREE EDUCATION demands that education be treated as a universal right. What this looks like is FREE EDUCATION and dismantling other corporate, profiteering measures that fail staff and students.
GRASSROOTS FOR FREE EDUCATION WILL FIGHT FOR:
Free education, fully funded courses, rolling back course cuts
A living wage for placements
The abolishment of interdisciplinary units like FASS3999 and OLEs
Maintaining 5 day simple extensions
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR FREE EDUCATION
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS
Vote [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
Vote [3] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS
RAND FOR PRESIDENT CANDIDATES
Oscar Lawrence Arts/Adv. Studies I
Curriculum Vitae No CV supplied.
Courtney Joubert Law I
Curriculum Vitae
• in my final year of school, I was school captain.
• I’ve had experience training staff in the workplace and I’m in first year Mooting
Aden Zaki Arts I
Curriculum Vitae
• School Captain at high school so went to many leadership camps sat in on state parliament etc.,
• love to yap
Felix Tchetchenian Arts/Adv. Studies I
Curriculum Vitae
• 1. i was a prefect in year 12, 2023.
• 2. represented my high school in a Lions Youth of the Year leadership competition in 2023.
• 3. i can name every single capital city in the world.
• 4. have actively worked in community engagement activities through playing with my local soccer team
[AK] IMPACT for STUDENT LIFE
Policy statement
IMPACT for STUDENT LIFE is a ticket that intends to revive an open dialogue between the SRC and the student body. Student life suffered through the depths of COVID and though improved, there is more student organisations can do to get students the best out of university life.
The SRC is funded by SSAF fees, and therefore students should be able to go there for service provision and resources.
- Free pill testing kits available in the SRC
- Restart SRC’s $50 emergency loan service
- Host weekly free barbeques where students can consult with representatives about any issues they face at university
Additionally, students deserve more academic support. Due to the massive size and population of the university, it’s easy for students to slip through the cracks and have trouble going through the University’s various automated admin processes. To address this, we believe students must be involved in the development of an academic support standard with the University.
This includes a student-led taskforce, in collaboration with learning staff to enhance academic advice pathways and make an in-person model of support available.
Lastly, our ticket prioritises mental health and well-being of students. Our university must stick to the 5-day simple extensions and we will engage in the ongoing conversation with the University to enshrine them. Students must be able to positively IMPACT their education and preserve their health without sacrificing academic achievement.
If you agree,
VOTE [1] IMPACT for STUDENT LIFE
VOTE [1] ANGUS FISHER FOR PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES
Cassidy Newman Liberal Arts/Science I
Curriculum Vitae
• SURG broadcaster - music to make you move every thursday at 1 ;)
• Drumming for 10 years
• Enjoys a ham and cheese sandwich on the Quad lawns
Mia Williams Arts I
Curriculum Vitae No CV supplied.
Oskar Brennan Science I
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
[AL] STAND UP FOR BETTER SERVICES
Policy statement
IMPACT for STUDENT LIFE is a
The status quo of student services and support at USyd is woefully inadequate and failing students. The Student Centre is communicated as an easy, catch-all point of contact for all enquiries. However, it often fails to deliver on its objective. Students deserve the very best support in their busy lives, and we will STAND UP for student services by fighting and lobbying for reforms and greater resourcing for the Student Centre to enable to truly deal with all requests for help effectively and directly.
CANDIDATES
Jeremy Ison Economics/Adv. Studies II
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
[AM] GRASSROOTS FOR CLIMATE ACTION
Policy statement
GRASSROOTS FOR CLIMATE ACTION is a ticket of fiercely leftwing students. We are committed to a feminist, anti-racist, anti-queerphobic, anti-colonial and anti-ableist SRC. Our struggles are interconnected.
My first foray into activism was attending a 2019 School Strike for Climate, which highlighted the significance of grassroots youth organising. As Enviro Officer this year, I have continued to understand how change is fought when we stand up to the systems and institutions that are perpetrating the climate crisis. The Enviro Collective epitomises the best of grassroots organising: protest, divestment campaigns, and solidarity with the fight against fracking on Country around so-called Australia. GRASSROOTS FOR CLIMATE ACTION will push for increased resourcing of ALL collectives - including Welfare and Education - to increase outreach.
It is abundantly clear that Labor cannot deliver on the question of climate action. Instead of following through with effective climate policy, the Labor Party deflects to Peter Dutton’s nuclear energy proposal. Dutton’s policies are certainly extremely dangerous, but we must not forget that the Labor Party engages in this debate so extensively to sanitise their abhorrent climate record. For instance, in the last year alone, Tanya Plibersek greenlit the Isaac River Coal Mine, the Star Coal Mine, the Ensham Coal Mine and the Gregory Crinum Coal Mine. This demonstrates that Labor will permanently favour profit over human life.
Our University also has an egregious record when it comes to genuine climate action; their sustainability reports are an exercise in greenwashing, replete with corporate buzzwords and false promises. In 2022, Honi Soit uncovered that USyd had shares in fossil fuel companies, despite claims of divestment. This included 300,000 BHP shares and direct investment in Rio Tinto;
companies that also have a reputation for destroying First Nations land, in the name of expanding coal mines.
GRASSROOTS FOR CLIMATE ACTION is dedicated to fighting against this blatant greenwashing and being a strong, left-wing voice, not beholden to any party memberships or partisan positions.
All environmentalists must support a Free Palestine, because climate justice is a left-wing, anti-colonial and anticapitalist movement. Moreover, Israel’s use of millions of tonnes of CO2, white phosphorus, and carpet bombing to destroy Palestinian land and ecosystems amounts to an environmental war crime. Yet, USyd still has ties with weapons manufacturing companies (some that they will not even disclose), such as their ties to Thales; arms which have fuelled a genocide in Gaza and colossal environmental harm across the globe. If the University was serious about the environment, they would actually follow through with divestment, rather than what the status quo is: presenting a nice-sounding report that does not legitimately reflect management’s orientation toward a fossil fuel free world.
If elected, GRASSROOTS FOR CLIMATE ACTION will be a progressive and independent voice, that will:
1. Demand that our university is fossil fuel free and cut ties with weapons manufacturing companies.
2. Push the Labor government to take legitimate climate action.
3. Forge partnerships with local, leftwing collectives, creating opportunities for collaboration and shared resources.
4. Fight for student welfare, feminism, queer rights, First Nations justice and disabilities; recognise that the SRC requires an intersectional and left-wing approach.
5. Place First Nations voices at the centre of any activism, especially environmental activism.
6. Back SRC collectives - increasing their budgets, expanding stipends and supporting their autonomy.
7. Push for the National Union of Students to have an Enviro Officer position.
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR CLIMATE ACTION
Vote [1] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS
Vote [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
Vote [3] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS
RAND FOR PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES
Jordan Anderson Arts/Law III
Curriculum Vitae
• 2024 USyd SRC Enviro Officer
• 2023 Law Revue
• Managed Georgia Zhang and Ethan Floyd’s USU campaigns
• Honi Soit contributor on occasion #journalism
• Currently obsessing over Love Island
• Diva
Nabilah Chowhury Science/Adv. Studies II
Curriculum Vitae
• Taronga Wildlife Conservation Student Representative
• SUUNS General Exec
• USYD Fencing
• Global Solidarity Officer
• Masters in slaying
• Certificate 2 in animal care
• Jane Goodall institute volunteer
• Volunteer Zookeeper
• Sweet treat after work connoisseur
• Sonny Angel addict
Holly Gerrard Arts/Adv. Studies IV
Curriculum Vitae
• Enjoyer of student journalism.
• Admirer of Jordan Anderson.
• Egregiously hot.
Martin Tan Arts/Adv. Studies III
Curriculum Vitae No CV supplied.
Juliet-Gisele Savva Science II
Curriculum Vitae
• Fashionista
• RSA
• Volunteer worker
• Sporty
• Excel/coding queen
[AN] STEM FOR SRC
STEM for SRC???? WE ARE THE TICKET dedicated to RAISING UP the voices of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics students within the USYD community. We aim to bridge the gap between these FORGOTTEN FACULTIES and student representation, ensuring that the unique needs and challenges of STEM students are addressed. WE WANT more FAIR ASSESSMENTS, more FOODHUB, and greater support for CAMPUS EVENTS. By voting for STEM for SRC, you’re choosing a team committed to academic a stronger, more connected STEM community at USYD. Let’s drive progress together!
CANDIDATES
Philip Howard Science I
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
James Dwyer Advanced Computing / Commerce IV
Curriculum Vitae
“SUDATA President, 2024. USU Board Director, 2024 USU Honorary Treasurer”
[AO] REFORM USYD
“As Reform USYD, we’re committed to restoring common sense and to our once great University. USYD has been hijacked by far-left communist activists who push divisive agendas and disrupt the academic achievement of our fellow
students with incessant protests and ideological indoctrination. It’s time you take a stand against this.
Sick of the loud and annoying protests down Eastern Ave every day?
We pledge to ban destructive protests & those annoying announcements before class that serve only to undermine the learning environment. We’ll ensure that campus clubs promoting extremist ideologies are defunded, including the radical campus commies who threaten the very integrity of our democratic institution, the SRC. We believe in upholding a campus where all students can focus on their education without a constant barrage of the woke agenda.
REFORM USYD will also work to enhance security measures on campus, ensuring that all students are protected.
Join us in our mission to bring common sense and academic rigour back to our University. Together, we can Make USYD Great Again!
CANDIDATES
Samuel Barry Arts I
Curriculum Vitae
“Worked as a tower technician Vice President of the NSW YN’s Jordan Peterson Enthusiast Regional Warrior Matt Walsh Enjoyer”
Laura Strawbridge Arts / Adv. Studies I
Curriculum Vitae
“Works in retail
Caused a fuss on QnA once Loves politics & polling Hates taxes Loves zappos”
[AP] LEFT ACTION FOR FREE PALESTINE
“Left Action are the most committed activists against the genocide in Palestine. We have witnessed the murder of 186,000 Palestinians since October 2023, with many thousands still left under the rubble of the destroyed houses, schools, hospitals and mosques.
Our university is also wholly complicit in the genocide in Gaza. USYD has research partnerships with weapons companies enabling the genocide. Most notable of these ties is the Memorandum of Understanding with Thales which allows weapons research to take place on campus. Thales is infamous for manufacturing drones in collaboration with the Israeli weapons company Elbit Systems. Our university also offers exchange units and partnerships with Israeli academic institutions that operate on stolen Palestinian land, and who work closely with the Israeli security forces and army.
Our achievements:
In response to the complicity of our government and university, we led the USYD Gaza Camp in semester one, being one of the first encampments set up outside the US. We led the biggest pro Palestine demonstration on campus with 600 people turning up to defend the camp from Zionists. We also organised the Student General Meeting for Palestine, where 800 people turned up to vote against USYD’s ties to genocide. Our candidate Shovan moved the successful motion voted up nearly unanimously. We have been consistent activists with Students for Palestine for over a decade at USYD, organising protests against the occupation and every escalation by Israel. We are proud to stand on the side of the Palestinians and all peoples oppressed by colonialism.
We stand for:
1. USYD to cut ties with Thales and all weapons companies conducting research at USYD.
2. USYD to cut ties with Israeli academic institutions, such as Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv University, and Technion - Israel Institute of Technology and abolish the OLES2155: Experience Israel.
3. USYD to disclose and divest from any financial investment in Israel.
4. USYD to rescind academic discipline measures against pro-Palestine student activists.
5. Immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the West Bank.
6. An end to the occupation and the right to return for all Palestinian refugees.
7. A free Palestine from the river to the sea.
8. To send Albanese to the ICC for war crimes and genocide complicity.”
CANDIDATES
Curriculum Vitae Jasmine Al-Rawi Architecture and Environments IV
• Hey! I’m Jasmine, I am the convenor of students for Palestine.
• I have been a Palestine activist at Usyd since 2021, ever since the mass protests for Sheikh Jarrah.
• I was an organiser of the Usyd Gaza Encampment.
• I co-chaired the Student General Meeting to demand USYD cut ties with genocide.
• This was the biggest pro Palestine event on campus ever.
• I am a member of the Palestine Action Group. I chaired one of the PAG rallies as a student organiser of the USYD Gaza encampment.
• I am the welfare officer at the USYD SRC 2024”
Curriculum Vitae
• I was involved in building the LGBTI+ movement in Turkey.
• Arrested during the 2022 Pride Parade at Middle East Technical University for protesting discriminatory policies towards gay and trans students.
• I was part of the Gaza Solidarity Encampment
• Helped build the Student General Meeting, where students voted against the university’s ties with weapons companies and Israeli academic institutions.
• I was involved in the campaign against the Campus Access Policy which aimed to silence student activism on campus.
• I think we can win a world free of exploitation and discrimination, free of racism, sexism, homophobia and transphobia.
• I believe that ordinary people, not the people at the top, are our only hope for a better world.”
Lauren Finlayson Arts II
Curriculum Vitae
• Member of Students for Palestine.
• I was involved in the Gaza encampment last semester.
• I helped to organise the Student General Meeting to get Israeli weapons companies off campus!
• SRC Social Justice Officer (2024).
• I used my SRC position to promote Palestine activism on campus, our university should be for education, not funding war
• I was a part of ‘Welfare not Warfare’ rallies last year to oppose the drive to war and demand affordable housing
• I’m involved in the USYD enviro collective to demand climate justice.
• I’m Invovled in Community Action for Rainbow Rights to fight for LGBTQ+ rights.
• I joined USYD staff on strike in 2023 to demand better wages and conditions, and continue to support their endeavours”
Yoshi Leung Arts/Adv Studies III
Curriculum Vitae
• I promoted and took part in the historic 2024 Student General Meeting.
• At which 600 students voted for USyd to divest from Israel and weapons companies.
• I was involved in the Sydney University Gaza Encampment.
• I continue to organize ongoing Palestine activism.
• Involved with Students for Palestine against Israeli apartheid and the University’s complicity in the genocide of Palestinians.
Yasmine Johnson Science VII
No photo supplied.
Curriculum
Vitae
• As an anti-Zionist Jewish activist, I think it is our obligation to stand up against the genocide of the Palestinians
• I’m a member of Students for Palestine and the Palestine Action Group
• I have helped organise weekly rallies against the genocide in Gaza.
• Helped organise multiple student strikes and the USYD Gaza Solidarity Camp
• I was the 2023 SRC Education Officer, and helped organise support for staff strikes and opposition to course cuts
• I helped organise a campaign against the housing crisis which is affecting students.
• I think housing should be a human right, not a profitmaking exercise for millionaire developers and landlords”
Daniel Rutter Science I
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
• Involved in Camp for Palestine at Bristol University (UK)
• Attended Pro-Palestinian protests both I’m Sydney and Bristol
• Picketed a climate conference at law firm associated with the University of Bristol to protest their involvement with the Genocide
• Attended the Scrap the CAP campaign
• Helped to build for Student General Meeting (Palestine)”
Enya Hua Arts II
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
• I support and have been involved in student protests for Palestine on campus.
• Involved in student strikes, the SGM and the Gaza Solidarity encampment.
• I believe that weapons manufacturers have no place on campus during a genocide in Gaza.
• Student fees and research should never be used to fund death and destruction.
[AQ] STAND UP FOR ACADEMIC FREEDOM
We all know that USyd’s so-called ‘interdisciplinary’ units, Industry and Community Projects, and OLEs are a waste of time and money. By forcing these units down student’s throats we are denied the opportunity to spend our credit points how we choose, on interesting and useful classes.
Instead, we students are forced to click through annoying online quizzes and pay $2000 for the privilege of creating a high schooltier group powerpoint.
Students are going through a cost of living crisis and we are worried about our growing HECS debts. It is outrageous that we are forced to pay so much for these useless classes. As your SRC representative I will fight to restore academic freedom and stop this price gouging of students.
CANDIDATES
Connor Davies Arts/Adv Studies IV
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
Darcy Widdowson Commerce/ IV
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
[AR] penta for Lumina
1. Reduction of tuition fee for international students
2. Travel concession for NSW students
3. Architecture buildings should be renovated
4. Free e-textbook for all students
5. More social events other than orientation week
6. More support for student progression issue e.g at risk”
CANDIDATES
Kaylie Su Economics I
Curriculum Vitae
“I am Li Su(Kaylie).
I am a First year student studying Bachelor of Economics majoring in Economics and Urban Studies. Born in Beijing, China and raised in Singapore.
I have served on the Student Representative Council at my college I demonstrated a strong commitment to assisting students with their difficulties.
Additionally, I have organised
workshops for Women Refugees with my society in Glasgow, UK. My talents include six years of Latin dance, two years of ballet, and recently picked up hip-hop dance. Furthermore, I was a member of the school choir for two years.”
Chloe Kang Jia En Economics I
Curriculum Vitae
Hi my name is Chloe and I’m an international student from Singapore.
I study bachelor of Economics, majoring in Financial economics and international business.
I’m passionate about fitness, enjoying both the gym and outdoor running.
I was a cross country running champion back in high school. During my free time, I enjoy going out and trying new food.
Additionally, I love traveling and exploring new cultures through food.
Jocelyn Chen Arts I
I’m Jocelyn, a first year student studying Bachelor of Arts in art history and urban studies.
Growing up in Brisbane and completing high school in Taiwan, I’ve developed a global perspective and adaptability.
I’m excited about teamwork and finding creative solutions to challenges.
My experiences include volunteering at Syrian refugee camps in Jordan and science project competitions. I play the Chinese harp, flute, and Ultimate Frisbee (yes, it’s a sport) for six years.
Hello everyone, my name is Jiayi Deng, you can call me Vittoria as well.
I come from China, and now I am an undergraduate student in the University of Sydney.
In my free time I like swimming, fitness, traveling and so on.
When I was in high school, I once served as the leader of the propaganda group of the Student Union
I led the group members to participate in many school activities, which laid a foundation for my organizational and social skills.
I’m really excited to be here and work with you guys!
Thank you all!
[AS] GRASSROOTS AGAINST COURSE CUTS
“GRASSROOTS AGAINST COURSE CUTS is an unapologetically left wing ticket that will fight the ongoing corporatisation of our university.
We believe an activist student body is needed to oppose management’s cuts and mergers of courses, departments and degrees. We know that the answer is not to trudge to the offices of management and beg for crumbs. The only way we can reverse these changes is if we fight them.
The past decades have seen the rise of the corporate university, a place where our student fees increase while our subject options shrink and staff are forced to work longer hours for less pay. Despite the University posting exorbitant surpluses of up to $1 billion a year, degrees continue to be stripped and gutted in the name of cutting costs. University management has recently set its sights on the School of Philosophy, proposing to axe at least 25 units. This is despite the fact that Philosophy remains one of the most popular subjects for undergraduates. This is just a fraction of the wider cuts they’ve made to the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS), Faculty of Science, School of Business, and
School of Dentistry and others.
These attacks come off of the back of extensive cuts to Honours degrees in 2023, in which the University Academic Board voted to scrap subject-specific seminar units for a swathe of subjects including Ancient Greek, Ancient History, Anthropology, Art History, Latin, Linguistics, Political Economy and Visual Arts. This is to say nothing of mandatory OLEs, the “Future FASS” program (which funnels students into highly generalised units with little educational value like FASS1000 or FASS3999), and ICPUs (many of which involve students doing unpaid labour for corporations in the midst of a cost of living crisis). These don’t just affect students — they affect staff, who continue to face ongoing casualisation and redundancies, and the disciplines at large, which are struggling to develop as their research and funding gets gutted. We say that it doesn’t have to be this way.
GRASSROOTS AGAINST COURSE CUTS knows that when we fight these attacks, we can beat them back. In 2021, the University attempted to abolish the Department of Theatre and Performance Studies and the Department of Studies in Religion. These cuts, had they gone through, would have been catastrophic for students, staff and for the subjects themselves, given that USyd is one of the few Australian universities to offer Theatre and Performance Studies as an academic discipline. Yet these cuts did not go through — a highly organised campaign of staff and students fought against them on campus and online, until the University finally relented. It was proof of the fact that activism works. Activism is how we fight. Activism is how we win.
The University has now released the Campus Access Policy (C.A.P.), which seeks to stamp out activism by demanding 72 hours notice and approval for simple acts such as using megaphones, setting up tables or putting up posters, dangling the threat of arrest over those who refuse to comply. Make no mistake — this is a sign that they are afraid. Afraid of the pressure that we can and will put on them, whether it is course cuts or their ties to the weapons companies that are funding the current genocide in Palestine. Any future wins for our movement are predicated on dismantling this draconian policy. We must resist it.
GRASSROOTS AGAINST COURSE CUTS will fight the ongoing corporatisation of our university. We will fight to reignite the campaign against course cuts by
organising through the Education Action Group. We will fight against the Campus Access Policy, to ensure that activism is protected. We will fight for a future where education is free, and our university is not run in the interest of profits over people. We ask you to join us in this struggle. A better university is possible — all we have to do is fight for it.
VOTE [1] GRASSROOTS AGAINST COURSE CUTS
VOTE [1] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS
VOTE [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
VOTE [3] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS
RAND FOR PRESIDENT”
CANDIDATES
• “He/him
• Editor, Honi Soit (2023)
• Contributor, Honi Soit (2021 -)
• Contributor, Pulp (2022 -)
• Vice-President, Sydney University Greek Society (20222023)
• Member, Education Action Group (2021 -): participating in the Save USyd Arts Campaign (2021) and the NTEU strike campaign (2022-2023)
• Member, USyd Gaza Solidarity Encampment
• Producer, SUDS’ Things I Know to be True (2022)
• Playwright, SUDS Radio Plays (2021) and SUDS Slot III (2022)
• Actor, USU Arts Revue (2022) and SUDS’ Machinal (2022)
• Set Designer, SUDS’ Noah Centineo: The Movie: The Play: The Movie (2021)
• Production assistant and stage manager, SUDS’ Medea (2022)
• Dramaturg, SUDS’ The Glass Menagerie (2023)
• General Executive, Cartoon Caption Contest Club (2022)
• Ability to succeed in a postcrisis world after completing the “Succeeding in a Post-Crisis World” OLE (2024)”
Katarina Butler Science IV
Curriculum Vitae
• Honi Soit Editor (2023)
• Womns Revue (2024)
• SUDS (2022-2024)
• QUEST (2022)
Andy Park Arts/Laws IV
Curriculum Vitae
• Honi Soit Editor 2023
• SRC Refugee Rights Officer 2022
• Full time no-idea-whats-goingon-in-my-life-er
Luke Cass Arts/Laws IV
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
Editor of Honi Soit (2023)
Caitlin O’Keeffe-White Arts III
• Honi Soit editor, 2023
• Bus Sprinter and Time Maximiser, 2013-present No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae [AT] rediance for penta
Academic Support: Offer lectures and resources to help international students with their studies.
Extended Dining Hours: Increase dining options and keep them open later for students with evening classes.
Mental Health Support: Provide counseling for international students to help with culture shock and academic stress.
CANDIDATES
Kevin Xie Commerce III
My name is Zifan Xie. Third year bachlor of commerce major in finance and accounting, Served as the 96th Interfaith Officer. I had teaching experience in Thailand.
From that time on, I felt my own value, so I opened a social media account and have been running it ever since.
I helped hundreds of international students solve visa problems, housing problems, and provide some personal recommendation on major selection.
William Jiang Arts III
My name is Zhongxuan Jing.
I am currently in my final year at the University of Sydney, double majoring in Economics and Finance.
I am also an active member of the International Student office of SRC. I take on key responsibilities such as promoting the SRC, drafting content, and organizing activities for our members.
My role in the department allows me to contribute to the wellbeing of our international student community.
I am passionate about ensuring fair treatment for all students.
As I approach the end of my university journey, I am committed to making the most of my time here.
I will continue to advocate for the
rights and needs of international students. “
Tianwei Li Science I
Hello, everyone. My name is Tianwei Li and my English name is Lee.
My major and degree are Data science and Bachelor of science respectively.
I am a volunteer at SRC.
My main responsibility is to process the department’s projects and take care of some logistics.
SRC is an organization dedicated to solving the academic or life problems of students at all stages. Which is also very much in line with my personal concept of serving the public.
No matter you have professional problems or meet some difficulties, you can come to me and my team members.
Me and my team mates who are also highly professional.
[AU] IMPACT for REAL CHANGE
IMPACT for REAL CHANGE’ is a duo of left-wing, progressive students who understand your frustration with the current state of our student representation. It’s time for a change that puts your needs first, not personal agendas or symbolic protests that don’t lead to real progress. One that makes an IMPACT.
Our campaign is focused on practical solutions that directly benefit you. And if elected, we promise to:
Use your fees wisely: We will ensure that your SSAF fees are spent on initiatives that genuinely enhance your university life experience, like improving student facilities, bringing back student nightlife, and organising events that everyone can enjoy.
Prioritise your voice: We will actively listen to your concerns and advocate for changes within our reach and make a tangible difference in our daily lives.
Promote genuine engagement: We want to foster a campus environment where dialogue is open and respectful
and where every student feels empowered to contribute to our community.
Where students don’t get yelled at and harassed while walking down Eastern Ave and feel empowered to join a left-wing movement.
All three of us are democratic socialists and agree with a lot of activism on campus. But we no longer want to see your money fall into the pit of cults that have a stronghold on campus. These movements take time; creating a sectarian environment does not help.
We are committed to making our university a place where practical action precedes empty rhetoric. Vote for an ‘ IMPACT for REAL CHANGE’ and join us in creating a student body that POSITIVELY IMPACTS you.
CANDIDATES
Red Tilly Arts II
Member of the National Labor Students
2024 National Union of Students EdCon
Volunteer for the Yes23 Campaign Cooker of BBQ’s for Unions Week in August 2024
Cooker of BBQ’s against the Campus Access Policy
Cate Kerrigan Arts I
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
[AV] FREE PALESTINE FOR LIBERATION
“FREE PALESTINE FOR LIBERATION is not just another ticket, but rather a movement that is led by those who have lived the struggle, endured the loss, and carry forth the hope for a truly Free Palestine. As a Palestinian myself, I am committed to be a voice for my people - who have been silenced, displaced, and continue to fight the ongoing battle against genocide, occupation, and colonisation. As FREE
PALESTINE FOR LIBERATION, we are dedicated to creating a space that welcomes Palestinian voices to not merely be heard and discarded, but to instead to have our voices amplified. We believe in the power of lived experiences to be a catalyst for change, where it can no longer be dismissed or overlooked. We stand strongly and proudly for liberation, resistance, and the right to self-determination for all Palestinians. We envision a future where our university becomes a stronghold that harnesses anti-colonial and antiapartheid activism.
My people, the Palestinian people, have endured over seven decades of relentless colonisation and occupation. The recent unspeakable atrocities and genocide in Gaza, ongoing violence in the 1948 territories, and the relentless attacks of the Isreali Occupying Force’s abuse of power in the West Bank, are all apart of Israel’s broader strategy that encompasses ethnic cleansing and apartheid. Our struggle is not just for survival, but for liberation - liberation from the shackles of occupation, from the denial of our basic human rights, from the silencing of our voices, and from the erasure of our history.
USYD has seen a resurgence in Palestinian activism, driven by students who refuse to be complicit in the wake of injustice. However, there is still much work to be done. As FREE PALESTINE FOR LIBERATION, we strive for the authenticity involved in activism that comes with the honour that it is to be Palestinian. This is where we stand apart. We are not just allies; rather, we are the very people who have suffered under the occupation. We bring a perspective that is deeply personal and deeply committed to the cause, reminding the world that we Palestinians are not just numbers on a screen.
My name is Jaseena Al-Helo, and I am a Palestinian woman who has well and truly felt the impact of this Occupation firsthand. I carry my Palestinian Hawiya (ID) proudly, despite witnessing my family being torn about by the Israeli Occupation; I have lost loved ones, and in many ways, I have lost pieces of myself. But through this struggle, I have found my resilience and ultimately an unyielding commitment to justice.
PALESTINE FOR LIBERATION is our way of reclaiming those lost pieces and using our voices to make a difference. We are here to provide representation that is real, tangible, and rooted in the lived experiences of Palestinians.
FREE PALESTINE FOR LIBERATION is unique in its focus on crafting a space that encourages students of all backgrounds, and specifically Palestinian students, that it is a welcoming environment to come forward, share their story, and together lead the fight for liberation. We will work to:
- Establish a Palestinian Students’ Network on campus, that provides
support, builds a community amongst the diasporas, and a platform for Palestinian voices.
Push USYD to divest from companies and institutions complicit in the occupation and apartheid
- Challenge Campus Policies which stifle free speech and activism, particularly around the issue of Palestine, like the CAP
- Organise events and workshops that educate the broader student body on the realities of the Palestinian struggle, countering narratives of denial and erasure.
- Forge alliances with other student movements to strengthen the global movement for Palestinian Liberation
FREE PALESTINE FOR LIBERATION is a testament to the ower of lived experience and the importance of building community to fight the battle against genocide. We are not just speaking for Palestine; we are speaking as Palestinians. Our campaign reminds students that the struggle for Palestine is not a distant issue but a present reality for many of us on this very campus. We are here to demonstrate that the fight for liberation is not just possible, but inevitable.
Voting for FREE PALESTINE FOR LIBERATION is a vote for justice, representation, and the undeniable truth that Palestine will be free.
VOTE [1] FREE PALESTINE FOR LIBERATION
VOTE [1] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS
VOTE [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
VOTE [3] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS RAND FOR PRESIDENT”
CANDIDATES
Jaseena Al-Helo Arts/Adv Studies I
• Social Justice Leader + Head of Committee in High School Mock Trial
• 1st Barrister Saxophonist
• AMEB Grade qualifications National Tennis player
• Skilled in multiple languages: English, Arabic, French
• Advocator for Human Rights: spoke at and presented an award at a Palestinian
fundraiser event for Gaza - end of 2023
• Developed the “Check Your Privilege Crates” initiative as part of the St Vincent De Paul Society (SVDP)
• Created crates and care packages for homeless Australians
• Charitable services as part of Matt Talbot for the homeless community surrounding Glebe
• Orchestrated Christmas Hampers within my School amongst over 1000 girls for students in Kiribati
• Involved in Caritas Initiatives such as Winter Hampers, feminine hygiene products, and school resources for students in the Solomon Islands
• Promoted to Corporal position in the Army Cadets (Alpha Company)
• 3rd Speaker Debater
• Proficient public speaker
• - Tournament of Minds participant + mentor Ethics Olympiad + Ethics Committee “
Jacinta Lyakurwa Economics I
• Caritas Volunteer
• Tutor
Salma Mardawie Applied Science I
• Prefect in High School
• Speaking at pro palestine protests
• Involvement in high school SRC
• Organising protests
• I own the cutest cat in the world
• I like to drum at protests
• I work with children as a tutor
• Gym is my comfort place”
[AW] Artistry
• Consistent and continued maintenance of arts buildings — Old Teachers’ College and Seymour Centre
• Further integration of student work into creative campus environments
• Fostering more inclusive and welcoming environments in artistic and performance societies
• Increasing inter-campus and inter-faculty collaboration to foster mutual creative endeavour
• Introducing more environmentally sustainable practices for artistry faculties and societies, and their performances
• Extending student benefits to the Conservatorium campus ensuring equity and consistency
• Increasing sensory accessibility at the Conservatorium
• Full divestment and ceasing ties with Israeli institutions by the University”
Sustainabilityfor CANDIDATES
Jessica Smith Arts / Adv. Studies I
Singer, actress, writer, and director
Environment OfficerConservatorium Students’ Association
Leader - Sydney Con for Palestine Reporter - Honi Soit
Director & Writer - Behind Closed
Doors (SUDS)
Music Director - Rent the Musical: No Not that Rent (SUDS Major Slot)
Assistant-Director - Burramatta
Songlines Ensemble - Legally Blonde (UTS Backstage)
Burgmann
Composer, actor Cast - Con Revue
Mollie Galvin Music I
Curriculum Vitae
Historical opera singer, oboist
Disability Officer - Conservatorium
Students’ Association
Publications Editor - UTS Law
Students’ Society (2023)
Disability Officer - Students’
Representative Council (2017-2018)
Editor - Queer Honi (2017)
[AX] IMPACT FOR ACTION
Policy statement
IMPACT for ACTION is a ticket advocating for an inclusive campus attentive to the needs of all students. IMPACT will achieve these goals by using
the SRC’s infrastructure to collaborate with other student organisations such as the USU and Sydney Uni Sport and Fitness:
• BBQ’s → Weekly BBQ’s on campus
• HIV tests → Free ATOMO HIV tests on campus to promote sexual health
• Academic accessibility → advocate for 5 day simple extensions, improve the communication between the IDS and students e.g. making the website/portal more accessible and user friendly
• Affordability → Concession cards for International students
• Annual Badminton competition for to celebrate International Students at USYD
• More free food on campus → Expand Foodhub
CANDIDATES
Lucy Sullivan Arts/Adv. Studies III
Curriculum Vitae
• Film, feminism, free speech
• SwiftSoc member
• FilmSoc member
Sargun Saluja Science/Laws II
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
An international, for the internationals x
Gabriella Ibrahim Science II
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
[AY] STAND UP FOR UNI INTEGRITY
Policy statement
“Hi, I’m Liam, and I’m studying a Bachelor of Laws here at the University of Sydney.
My objectives for running for students representative council is to provide all students with a voice on
issues affecting their university life. This will include advocating for the improvement of student services by working together with the Student Union and the University to get the best outcomes possible.
I will advocate for better and more affordable accommodation, which is a necessity for all students. I am also determined to fight for improved student services on campus that assist students with their academic and other needs.
I will represent all students, not just those with the loudest voices.”
CANDIDATES
Liam Languiller Laws IV
Curriculum Vitae
No CV supplied.
[AZ] Penta for FUN
Policy statement
FOCUSED:Expand and focus src funding for common sense community projects, improving student quality of liferestore and fix the src website, ensure collectives are accessible and easy to join
UNITED: Increase src support for cultural groups and societies strengthen ties between international and domestic students with more culture sharing and exhibition events
NEEDED:Lower tuition for all international students ensure all international students get transport concessions
CANDIDATES
Bohao Zhang Economics/Laws I
Curriculum Vitae
Hi!! My name is Bohao and I’m studying law and economics.
I was born in Qingdao, China, but spent most of my life in New Zealand.
It’s there that I got involved with a range of extracurricular activities.
I was involved in Model UN, served on my suburb’s youth board to interning with my local Member of Parliament. These experiences have shown me the value in speaking up and making sure all perspectives are heard.
Ultimately then, I’m running for the SRC to represent and voice the concerns of all international students I will represent international students like me, no matter where they happen to be from.
Bob Song Commerce/Laws I
Moikka, I’m Yuanbo, but please call me Bob!
I’m a freshman studying commerce and law, and thrilled to be running for our lovely SRC.
My secondary education taken in the birthplace of Santa — Finland.
The spirit of “Sisu” (determination) and Christmas (dedication) took root in my heart, community service has become my second nature.
Being the President of my high school student council has already familiarised me with the working procedures.
My successful founding of two clubs taught me the confidence to make what I’m enthusiastic about happen.
“Actions speak louder than words,” see you around!! they happen to be from.
Daniel Yu Science I
Curriculum Vitae
Hi, my name is Daniel, and I’m a first year student currently studying a Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine.
I’ve always held giving back to the community in high regard.
I led a charity group in high school, which involved running events such as food banks and blood donations.
In a university that is brimming with opportunities, I hope to give back to USYD students by running for the Student Representative Counciland doing my best to represent the student body.
Curriculum Vitae
Hi guys, I’m Jeremy Lin and I’m a firstyear student majoring in Marketing and Finance.
I started participating in student council during high school, where I gained valuable experience.
Proud to say, I have worked on Tencent’s marketing training program and an IPO project with a private equity firm.
In my free time I love to travel, while also having a keen interest in fishing and badminton.
My aspiration is to succeed academically while also giving a voice to other international students at the SRC. Thank you all!
George Feng Science II
Curriculum Vitae
Hi! My name is George.
I’m currently a second-year Bachelor of Science student majoring in mathematics with a minor in physics.
I love the challenge that mathematics presents at times, and eventually
overcoming it.
I’m pretty easy-going and chill.
I have effective communication skills, which I believe will be helpful in my role on the Student Representative Council.
Outside of academics, I have a passion for sports, especially hiking and basketball, which helps me stay balanced and energised.
I’m eager to contribute positively and represent our student body!
Kaixi Zhang Science I
Curriculum Vitae
Hi, I’m Kaixi. I am a Bachelor of Medical Science student majoring in immunology and pathology.
My love for science is in tandem with my creative interests in dancing and drawing.
You’ll often find me enjoying the outdoors, whether it’s an active adventure or simply relaxing in nature.
I have an outgoing personality and strong communication skills, and am very organised when faced with multiple difficult tasks.
As a Student Representative Council candidate, I’m confident in my ability to multitask effectively and ensure everything runs smoothly. represent our student body!
Amanda Diao Commerce I
Curriculum Vitae
Hiii, my name is Amanda!!!!! I’m a Bachelor of Commerce student majoring in finance, financial mathematics, and statistics. I’m from Chengdu, China, where the cute pandas are from.
While being in love with maths, I also really really enjoy eating spicy food. Feel free to reach out if you want to share a hotpot or have some extra spice in your ramen!
I’m an enthusiastic traveller, ice skater, and hiker.
More importantly, I’m passionate about making a change.
For this reason I’m eager to work in the Student Representative Council to speak out for my fellow international students.
Junjie Rong Commerce I
Curriculum Vitae
Hi! I’m Jay!
I’m so excited to be running for the Student Representative Council this election.
One crucial fact you need to know about me is that I love to skydive. Skydiving has taught me the value of bravery and taking risks — “Go big or go home!”
I also like snorkelling, badminton, and biking.
I recently got an electronic bike which I ride to school everyday.
So if you see me around, don’t hesitate to say hi!!
I love making new friends and helping out other international students, which is why I’m running for the SRC! students.
[BA] STAND UP FOR STUDENT WELFARE
Policy Statement
University students face some of the toughest mental health challenges in our society, especially as their academic and personal pressures mount due to disinterest and neglect from the people with the money and power to make a difference. With university management often prioritizing profits over student well-being, I am committed to advocating for our mental health needs. I will fight for increased funding and support for mental health services, ensure simple extensions are protected and expanded, and push to bring this critical issue to the forefront of management’s agenda, regardless of their priorities.
Curriculum Vitae No CV supplied.
Daniel O’Shea Commerce III
Curriculum Vitae
• SRC Councillor 2022
• SRC General Executive 2023
• SRC General Secretary 2024
• NUS General Executive 2024
[BB] FREE PALESTINE FOR BDS
Policy Statement
FREE PALESTINE FOR BDS is a group of staunch students spearheading the campaign for USYD to cut ties with genocide! We are embracing the call of the Palestinian-led movement of Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) against the apartheid and genocidal state of Israel. BDS was used to dismantle apartheid in South Africa, and it will be used to achieve a FREE PALESTINE.
Universities should be responsible public institutions that are places of learning and community, not neoliberal hellholes where student fees and research are going towards militarism and imperialist wars around the globe. Yet, our University is committed to proving otherwise.
We are calling for the BOYCOTT of and DIVESTMENT from all weapons companies and Israeli academic institutions complicit in Israeli apartheid and genocide, and from all companies operating in the illegally occupied West Bank of Palestine. These institutions work with the Israeli military, train soldiers, create weapons, and sew uniforms to support the occupation and genocide of Palestine. They are part of the reason why there are NO universities left in Gaza.
FREE PALESTINE FOR BDS has proudly stood in solidarity with the global student movement for a Free Palestine, leading student strikes and the Gaza Solidarity Encampments, participating in community pickets of complicit companies, and getting students organised across different universities and student unions.
Grace Street, the tickethead of FREE PALESTINE FOR BDS, has been the 2024 SRC Education Officer. She has continued the 2023 ‘Thales Off Campus’ campaign, led the USyd Gaza Solidarity Encampment, filed a Freedom of Information Request to USyd about their ties to Israel, and organised ‘Scrap the C.A.P’ campaign against the draconian Campus Access Policy limiting our activism for Palestine. Grace also seconded and spoke to the motion at the recent SGM for USyd to cut all ties with Israel and complicit companies.
Even if you don’t know Thales, they probably know you. For instance, it is Thales who creates the Watchkeeper 35 drones used to surveil and kill Palestinians in Gaza. Yet, USyd has a Memorandum of Understanding with Thales, one of the largest weapons companies in the world, and our Uni’s longest serving Chancellor, Belinda Hutchinson, also sits on the board of Thales Australia.
USyd also has partnerships and research located on campus – the Nano Institute houses Ben Eggleton’s research group that partners with companies like L3Harris and Lockheed Martin, whose weapons are being used by Israel right now. FREE PALESTINE FOR BDS
staunchly opposes the militarisation of tertiary education. Like has just been achieved at the ANU, we will not rest until USyd divests from weapons and arms manufacturers!
The University’s soft commitment to an ambiguous working group to disclose research and investment related to defence and security has NO guarantee of full disclosure or any divestment. We already know full well about Thales and the complicit Israeli institutions that the University refuses to part ways with, so our focus must turn to other avenues for divestment.
FREE PALESTINE FOR BDS is a left-wing ticket committed to:
• Recognising our status as settlers on stolen Lands, fighting for justice for all oppressed peoples, from Gadigal to Gaza
• Fighting against all forms of discrimination, including Islamophobia, anti-Semitism, and anti-Palestinian racism
• Upholding the strategy and vision of the BDS movement and its three core demands;
1. End the occupation, dismantle the apartheid Wall
2. Full equality for Arab-Palestinians
3. Respecting and protecting the right of return for Palestinian refugees
• Strike, occupy, shut it down! Be oppositional and hit the University where it hurts – its pockets and public image
• Increasing the SRC’s role in and support of Palestine activism both on- and offcampus, in building a mass student movement to work with grassroots and Palestinian-led campaigns
• Supporting students and staff unfairly facing academic misconduct and punishment for their roles in activism for Palestine, through solidarity campaigns and the caseworker and legal services of the SRC
• Creating allegiances across universities and working through the National Union of Students, including spreading the annual ‘Israeli Apartheid Week’ beyond USyd
VOTE [1] FREE PALESTINE FOR BDS
VOTE [1] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS
VOTE [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
VOTE [3] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS RAND FOR PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES
Grace Street Arts/Language Studies IV
Curriculum Vitae
• (She/Her): Member of Grassroots!
• Studying Political Economy, International Relations, French and (a bit of) Arabic!
• SRC Councillor and Education Officer 2024,
• Leading the ‘Thales off Campus’ and ‘Scrap the C.A.P’ campaigns, organising the recent Student General Meeting
• USyd Gaza Solidarity Encampment organiser
• Member of and organiser in BDS Youth, Students Against War, Students for Palestine, Students Against Placement Poverty
• Editor-in-Chief Counter Course 2024; Editor Women’s Honi (20234), Disabled Honi (2024)
• Writer for Honi Soit, Pulp, SURG, WoCo’s Growing Strong, ACAR ‘Armed’ Zine
• FrenchSoc President (2023), Publicity Officer (2022)
• FASS Dalyell Student Mentor of the Year (2022)
• Childless cat lady with a cat tattoo
• If you saw my vlogs on the Sydney Abroad Instagram, no you didn’t xx
• Met 3 members of The Strokes
• Saw Brutalismus 3000 in-person <3”
• Embroiderer
Curriculum Vitae
• Current ACAR Convenor Current Ethnocultural officer
• 2024 SRC Councillor
• 2024 Camper @ USyd Gaza Solidarity Encampment
• Students for Palestine member
• Students Against War member
• Political Economy Society Exec 2023-24
• Armed and ACAR Honi editor-inchief
• Moved a successful motion within the SRC to endorse Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS)
• Frantz Fanon Fan
• FrenchSoc Vice President 2024, Treasurer 2023
• Part of Gaza solidarity encampment
• Member of SAW
• Long-sighted
• Blue mountains native (swears it isn’t a cult)
• Hoarder of Vinnies knick-knacks
• Wearer of Nanna-knitted goods
• Chronic yapper
• Sole source of information is most recently watched YouTube video essay
• Bakes a solid chocolate chip cookie
Alejandro Darré Science/Arts III
• President of the Spanish and Latin American Society 2024
• From the best city in the worldBuenos Aires, Argentina
• Reigning champion of the History Society trivia night
• Knows the capital, location and flag of every country in the world
• Best Geoguessr player in USYD (try me)
• Hyperpop historian
[BC]IntifadaStudent
Policy Statement
Student Intifada for a free Palestine! USyd cut ties with Israel!
Since October 7th, Israel has launched a campaign of death and destruction in Palestine, expanding its slaughter in Gaza to neighbouring countries like Lebanon and Iran.
The Albanese government has backed Israel the whole way. Australia still supplies components to the f-35 fighter jets raining bombs on Gaza. Through Usyd’s ties to Israel, our Vice Chancellor, Mark Scott, has given cover to Israel and normalised its Apartheid system.
This support is despite the International Court of Justice’s ruling that there is plausible case for genocide, and more recently declaring Israel an Apartheid state illegally occupying the Palestinian territories.
Despite management’s support for Israel, the movement to free Palestine and cut ties with the terror state is growing. Over 600 students voted overwhelmingly to cut USYD ties with Israel and weapons manufacturers, rescind the draconian Campus Access Policy, affirm Palestinians’ right to armed resistance under international law, and support a single, democratic, secular state of Palestine.
Vice Chancellor Mark Scott’s response - smearing us as “terrorists”revealed his utter contempt for student voices and democratic processes.
Mark Scott and Albanese are the ones supporting a campaign of terror against the Palestinian people. Scott partners with weapons companies arming Israel. Usyd runs a medical exchange program with Technion, an Israeli university. From developing the D9 remote controlled bulldozers that have demolished Palestinian homes, to developing chemical weapons used to poison Palestinian water, Technion upholds Israel’s apartheid regime.
Mark Scott has tried to whitewash these ties, from painting over Palestinian flags and slogans in the graffiti tunnel to introducing the Campus Access Policy. Mark Scott is hell bent on snuffing out the movement for Palestine on campus.
But we refuse to be intimidated. When management tried to ban the word “intifada,” we didn’t back down. When he banned some of us from speaking about Palestine in our classes we refused to be silent.
We understand that our power comes from numbers so reaching out to our fellow students in classrooms is crucial. It’s in classes we’ve gathered over 1300 USyd signatories demanding Usyd cut ties with Israel and built support for the campaign.
On March 19th, we protested USyd’s exchange expo featuring Tel Aviv university, which recruits students to work with Elbit Systems—an Israeli weapons manufacturer.
We were central in building the
Gaza Solidarity Encampment launched on April 23rd, conducting ‘Protest Tours’ highlighting the University’s ties to the Apartheid state. This included the Sydney Nano Institute’s work with Lockheed Martin, the US Studies Centre’s promotion of American imperialism, and F23 where the bosses enable these ties.
The new Campus Access Policy is a desperate attempt to stifle dissent. But Student Intifada defied it on the Day of Defiance and we’ll continue to assert our right to organise, protest, and disrupt business as usual on campus.
We were key in building the historic Student General Meeting on August 7th, pushing an additional motion to affirm Palestinians’ right to resist and a democratic Palestinian state from the river to the sea.
We are also active off campus, helping organise ZIM shipping blockades and protests at weapons manufacturers arming Israel such as Quickstep factory in Bankstown.
We want you to vote for us because we want radical politics that unflinchingly stands with the Palestinian resistance to be represented on the SRC. We need an SRC that puts all its weight behind the campaign against the genocide, and for Palestinian liberation.
But more importantly we want you involved in the campaign, in the student intifada itself. To force the university to cut ties, to create a movement that can challenge capitalism and imperialism that has created the apartheid state, thousands of students will need to protest.
Voting in the SRC elections won’t cut the ties, but by using the elections as a platform for drawing more students into the Palestinian movement, Student Intifada hopes to build the forces required to fight management and the government head-on.
We will need to turn our universities into hotbeds of opposition to militarism and war. Get involved in Students Against War if you want to help make that happen!
Long live the Intifada! From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free!
Vieve Carsnew Arts II
Vitae
• Member of Students Against War and active in Palestine campaigning on and off campus
• Member of revolutionary socialist group, Solidarity
• Part of the ZIM shipping blockades at Port BotanySpoke at cut ties rallies during the Gaza Solidarity Encampment
• Organised events to paint the graffiti tunnel in support of Palestine
• Attended and built for the historic Student General Meeting.
• The meeting voted to cut tie and affirm the right of Palestinians to armed resistance
• Also supported the call for one, secular, democratic state from the river to the sea
• Picketed at the 2022/2023 USyd staff strikes
Alex Nicholson Arts III
Curriculum Vitae
• Proud member of Students Against War fighting USyd’s ties with apartheid Israel
• Helped build the historic Student General Meeting.
• Helped pass the second motion supporting the right to armed resistance and one Palestinian state
• Participated in the Gaza Solidarity Encampment last semester
• Participated in Port Botany blockade against Israeli ZIM shipping
Jacob Starling Arts/Advanced Studies IV
Curriculum Vitae
• Active member of Students Against War, an open organising group fighting to break USyd’s ties with Israel
• Mover of a successful motion at the 2024 Student General Meeting supporting Palestinian’s right to armed resistance.
• This motion called for a single, secular, democratic state of
Palestine from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea
• Spoke at the sit-in protesting Israeli university Tel Aviv during USyd’s March exchange expo.
• At this sit-in we forced the VicePresident of Tel Aviv Uni off campus
• Arrested at Port Botany for blockading the Israeli ZIM shipping company
• Picketed at all of the 2022-23 USyd NTEU strikes
• Proud revolutionary socialist and member of Solidarity
Angus Dermody Arts/Advanced Studies V
Curriculum Vitae
• Member of revolutionary socialist organisation Solidarity
• Member of Students Against War
• Involved in the campaign to cut USYD’s ties with Israeli apartheid and genocide
• Been a part of many other campaigns on this campus fighting course cuts and fee hikes and for climate action.
• Stood with staff on the picket line in their strikes.
• Also active off campus in any fight for a better world
• Known to USYD security
• Identified by the Daily Telegraph as an ‘intifada socialist’
Bri Akins Arts III
Curriculum Vitae
• Member of Students Against War, a group that started out fighting AUKUS and has built the Palestine campaign without compromise
• Fought for “intifada” and “from the river to the sea” chants and materials on campus when management smeared us in the media as terrorists
• Built for and attended the Student General Meeting which saw
overwhelming support for USyd to cut ties, the right to armed resistance, and a single, secular state of Palestine from the river to the sea
• Linked arms with comrades to blockade Israeli shipping company ZIM from being loaded at Port Botany.
• Held the line at Port Botany under brutality from the cops until it was collectively decided to move
• Announced at enough classes for the Palestine campaign to almost stop shaking every time
• Built for and attended pickets and rallies for countless unions and helped build Trade
• Unionist for Palestine, as well as in my own union
• Regular at the Gaza solidarity encampment, security stole my tent
• Member of Solidarity, revolutionary socialist organisation
Paul Kaletsis Arts/Education III
Curriculum Vitae
• Member of Students Against War (S.A.W.) and active in the Palestine solidarity campaign
• Built for and was at the historic Student General Meeting where 600+ students voted to call USYD to cut ties.
• Tel Aviv Uni protest participant
• Member of Solidarity, a revolutionary socialist organisation
• Wanted dead or alive for postering and class announcements
Hanna Kwan Arts IV
Curriculum Vitae
• Member of Students Against War and Revolutionary Socialist group Solidarity
• Helped organise climate strikes, student contingents to USYD
staff pickets and campaigned for Palestine on and off campus since 2021
• Part of the ZIM shipping blockades at Port Botany
• FREE PALESTINE
Jack Stubley Arts/Advanced Studies IV
Curriculum Vitae
• Consistently confronting Vice Chancellor Mark Scott when spotted on Eastern Avenue for his support for Israel’s genocide.
• Petitioned students to support SGM motions calling on USYD to cut ties.
• At the SGM supported motions for students to affirm Palestinians’ right to armed resistance as an occupied people.
• At the SGM supported the call for a single, secular, democratic state from the River to the Sea
• Participated in blockades against Israeli shipping company ZIM
• USyd Gaza solidarity encampment participant and elected SAW representative for negotiations
• Participated in 2021-22 staff strike pickets
• Done many class announcements about Palestine to let students know about the horrors in Gaza and USyd’s complicity
• Member of revolutionary socialist group Solidarity
• Active campaigner in Students Against War
[BD] FREE PALESTINE AND DECOLONISE
Policy Statement
colonisation /ˌk l n ze n/ noun: colonisation
“The establishment of a colony which subjugates the people and land through force and violence; typically with the goal of control, theft of resources and/or assimilation of the indigenous population who are seen as uncivilised.”
FREE PALESTINE AND DECOLONISE is an unapologetically left-wing ticket of experienced student activists, committed to decolonising our university and its systems. Our activism is rooted in our lived experience as First Nations people and people of colour
living in so-called Australia. We seek to challenge the colonial frameworks that underpin our institutions.
Colonisation affects us all in socalled Australia. The fight against racism, queerphobia, misogyny, ableism, poverty, and homelessness are all important struggles in their own right – but each is also inextricably linked to the long-term effects of colonisation on this continent.
Particularly in a year where the movement for a free Palestine is at strongest in decades, and on the back of the historic student mobilisation for divestment, this is a crucial election where your vote can help serious anticolonial activists make real change through your SRC.
FREE PALESTINE AND DECOLONISE brings years of experience in anti-colonial activism to the SRC, having been involved in the long-term campaigns against Indigenous deaths in custody, global anti-colonial resistance, and the ongoing struggle for a free Palestine. Most recently, our ticket spearheaded the Gaza solidarity encampment on the front lawns of the Quadrangle.
GRASSROOTS FOR DECOLONISATION is committed to:
• Recognising the sovereignty of First Nations people on these stolen lands, and that this always was and always will be Aboriginal land.
• Fighting for the dismantling of colonial structures of oppression and discrimination, including the carceral system and out-of-home “care” system.
• Supporting the struggle for a free Palestine, from Gadigal to Gaza.
• Campaigning for the University of Sydney to sever its shameful ties to companies and institutions which are complicit in apartheid and genocide.
• Building a left-wing coalition of decolonial BIPOC students and allies on-campus.
• Facilitating opportunities for community-building and political education (i.e. reading groups, film screenings, teachins, activist workshops etc.)
• Engaging with the SRC collectives (i.e. ACAR, WoCo, DisCo) and campus clubs and societies (i.e. SUMSA, QOCO) to involve more students in our activism.
• Reckoning with our University’s colonial past and present, and opposing its continued complicity in colonial projects by way of its ties to weapons companies.
Our university and, by extension, our SRC must be firmly anti-colonial and work towards decolonising its spaces and systems. Your vote can help make this happen.
Vote [1] FREE PALESTINE AND DECOLONISE
Vote [1] FREE PALESTINE FOR NUS
Vote [2] LEFT ACTION FOR NUS
Vote [3] GRASSROOTS FOR NUS RAND FOR PRESIDENT
CANDIDATES
Ethan Floyd Arts III
Curriculum Vitae
• SRC First Nations Officer, 96th SRC (2023-24)
• Coordinated campaigns for decolonisation and First Nations justice, against deaths in custody and forced child removals in NSW.
• Co-convenor of the SRC First Nations Students’ Collective (2024)
• SRC Councillor, 96th SRC (2024)
• Member of SRC Autonomous Collective Against Racism (2022): Organising around anti-racist values and collective liberation, community events and political education.
• Editor, Honi Soit (2022-23) Editor,
• ACAR Honi (2023); Disabled Honi (2023-24); Indigenous Honi (2023).
• Contributor, Honi Soit (2022-)
• USU Board Director (2024-); Ethnocultural, Disabilities, Queer portfolio-holder (2024-)
• USU Director of Student Publications (2024-)
• Undergraduate Representative, Academic Board (2023-)
• Student Partner, Indigenous Strategy and Services Committee (2023-)
Dana Kafina Arts I
Curriculum Vitae
• SS4C Organiser
• Member of BDS Youth,
• Member of ACAR
• Member of the Muslim Collective
• Member of Australian Youth Climate Coalition
• Member of Move Beyond Coal
Kayla Hill Arts II
Curriculum Vitae
• School Strike 4 Climate Organiser 2019-2023,
• Created Rainbow Cumberland,
• Writing a TV show “Strike!” about youth climate activism,
• Member of ACAR 2024,
• Cheese toastie connoisseur!
Marc Panesa Liberal Arts and Science I
Curriculum Vitae
• USyd Student Ambassador
Maryam Al Zehairi Science I
[BE] LEFT ACTION FOR FREE EDUCATION
Policy Statement
Do you think education should be a right not a privilege? So do we! We think it’s outrageous that students are slapped with huge amounts of debt just so they can receive a university education. In fact, our HECS debt has INCREASED 16 per cent in the last three years.
Meanwhile, our university takes money from weapons companies that sell weapons and technology to Israel. They are directly complicit in a genocide that they profit off.
Our university also exploits international students, charging them even more insane fees. What do they do with this money? It goes towards their $350 million profit recorded in 2023, and the $1 MILLION salary of our ViceChancellor, Mark Scott. This is on top of the $1 BILLION profit recorded in 2021.
Left Action For Free Education stands for:
• Making education 100% free and fully funded for ALL students!
• Wiping all student debt!
• Reversing cuts to our courses and degrees!
There’s no reason why this can’t be done- the government has the money for this, but they choose to give it to the corporations instead.
We have been the key activists fighting around these demands at Sydney University. As part of the Education Action Group, we have organized rallies, campaigns and student general meetings to fight around these issues.
This year we have led the Palestine solidarity campaign, demanding our university stand on the right side of history and end its ties with Israel. It’s outrageous our university makes money off research partnerships with weapons companies that are responsible for the genocide in Gaza. We think student money and research shouldn’t go towards weapons of war, but towards things which can help society. We have a history of organiSing protests and campaigns against cuts to courses, this year we organised against cuts to the Philosophy department.
We need a student union which will stand up for students’ rights and interests! That means taking on the millionaire university bosses, and the government. You can trust Left Action For Free Education to do this all year round.
CANDIDATES
Deaglan Godwin Arts/Advanced Studies VI
• Hi I’m Deaglan
• I think we need an SRC that fights for left-wing causes such as freedom for Palestine, free education.
• As SRC Vice President, I helped set up and lead the Gaza Solidarity Camp, the first Gaza encampment in Australia!
• I helped organise the largest Student General Meeting in decades.
• At the Student General Meeting I spoke to the motion demanding the university cut ties with Israel.
• As a Students for Palestine member, I have campaigned against Israel’s genocide of Gaza, and for a free Palestine.
• I was suspended for protesting former PM Malcolm Turnbull, aka “Mr Habourside Mansion”
• I was the 2022 SRC Education Officer and proudly led the student solidarity campaign with the staff strikes at USYD.
• Before that I helped to organise the 200+ person Student General Meeting against the FASS course cuts
• I was the SRC Environment Officer in 2021- we need system change not climate change!
• I think we a need a fairer and more equal world- the billionaires have too much power and wealth.
• We need to tax them and redistribute their wealth to fund education, healthcare, housing and higher wages!
• And we need to fight for justice and freedom for Palestine!
• I’ve been a committed activist for social justice & students rights throughout my degree
• This year I’ve been an activist in Students
• We organized the historic Gaza Solidarity Encampment & continue to pressure our university to end it’s ties to Israel
• For the past two years I’ve been the Environment Officer.
• I have organized protests demanding Labor stope expanding fossil fuel projects
• I have also organized and built the fight against course cuts to the Arts.
• In 2020 we defeated faculty merges through protests and a Student General Meeting
Gabe Crowe Arts III
Curriculum Vitae
• I was the SRC’s Global Solidarity Officer in 2024.
• I used this role to support Palestine Activism on Campus.
• I supported the Student Strikes for Palestine and most importantly the Gaza Solidarity Encampment.
• I am an active member of students for Palestine and helped set up the Gaza Solidarity encampment.
• Helped mobilise students for the USYD staff strikes and took part in defending the picket lines.
• Helped promote demonstrations against both both Federal and State Labor’s appalling attacks against LGBTI+ people
Keira Fairley Languages V
Curriculum Vitae
• Hi, I’m Keira. I’m a socialist and a student activist!
• I’m a member of Students for Palestine, and have been actively involved in setting up the USYD Gaza Solidarity Encampment.
• Involved in organising the successful 600+ person Student General Meeting for Palestine
• Built for several student strikes and protests both on and off campus
against weapons companies, the Labor Party, and genocide!
• I’ve been an activist in the ‘Get a Room’ campaign against the housing crisis.
• Helped to build Invasion Day rallies standing up against racism, and fought against attacks on queer rights.
• Led a successful campaign to win meal and rest breaks at my childcare centre, mobilising my coworkers against wage theft
• I have stood on picket lines in solidarity with NTEU staff on strike.
Tiana Moore Science/Advanced Studies II
Curriculum Vitae
• I am actively involved in proPalestine activism through Students for Palestine.
• We have built and held rallies, coordinated cross-campus school strikes and built the USYD Gaza Solidarity encampment.
• Advocated for free speech at the university through protesting the 2024 Campus Access Policy that restricted student rights on campus.
• Promoted the Student General Meeting where 600 students voted to demand that USYD divest from arms companies and Israeli institutions.
Jamie Dawes Arts II
Curriculum Vitae
• Involved with the ‘School Strike 4 Climate’ campaign on both the local and national level as a high schooler’
• Participated in picket lines for USYD staff strikes
• Helped promote the 2024 student general meeting in support of Palestine
Mael Vudinat Arts I
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
• Involved in Kanaky decolonising movements, including protesting and voting
• Involved in Palestine Liberation movements, inclduing SGM, protesting and striking, boycotting brands and businesses
[BF] LEFT ACTION AGAINST GENOCIDE
Policy Statement
Left Action are the most committed activists against the genocide in Palestine. We have witnessed the murder of 186,000 Palestinians since October 2023, with many thousands still left under the rubble of the destroyed houses, schools, hospitals and mosques. Our university is also wholly complicit in the genocide in Gaza. USYD has research partnerships with weapons companies enabling the genocide. Most notable of these ties is the Memorandum of Understanding with Thales which allows weapons research to take place on campus. Thales is infamous for manufacturing drones in collaboration with the Israeli weapons company Elbit Systems. Our university also offers exchange units and partnerships with Israeli academic institutions that operate on stolen Palestinian land, and who work closely with the Israeli security forces and army.
Meanwhile, there are other active genocides that demand our recognition of and resistance to. We stand against the genocide in Sudan, and the brutal civil war being enacted against a people who stood up in 2019 to overthrow a decades-long military dictatorship. We also stand against the genocide in the Congo. We have worked alongside Tamil refugees in Australia to demand justice from our government, who supported the Sri Lankan genocide of the Tamil people. The injustices across the world demand a student union willing to fight around every issue.
Our achievements:
In response to the complicity of our government and university, we led the USYD Gaza encampment in semester one, being one of the first encampments set up outside the US. We led the biggest pro Palestine demonstration on campus with 600 people turning up to defend the camp from zionists. We also organised the Student General Meeting for Palestine, where 800 people turned up to vote against USYD’s ties to genocide. We have been consistent activists with Students for Palestine for over a decade at USYD, organising protests against the occupation and every escalation by Israel. We are proud to stand on the
side of the Palestinians and all peoples oppressed by colonialism.
We stand for:
1. USYD to cut ties with Thales and all weapons companies conducting research at USYD.
2. USYD to cut ties with Israeli academic institutions, such as Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv University, and Technion - Israel Institute of Technology and abolish the OLES2155: Experience Israel.
3. USYD to disclose and divest from any financial investment in Israel.
4. USYD to rescind academic discipline measures against pro-Palestine student activists.
5. Immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the West Bank.
6. Solidarity with peoples who have faced past and ongoing genocides, from Gaza to the Congo, Sudan, Tamil Eelam and Kashmir.
7. Immediate approval of visas for Palestinians fleeing the genocide.
8. More scholarships for Palestinian students and refugees.
9. An end to the occupation and the right to return for all Palestinian refugees.
10. A free Palestine from the river to the sea.
11. To send Albanese to the ICC for war crimes and genocide complicity.
CANDIDATES
Shovan Bhattarai Arts II
Curriculum Vitae
Hi I’m Shovan!
• I was proud to issue the call to initiate the USyd Gaza Solidarity Encampment in Sem 1 2024.
• The encampment saw 100s of students camp out on the Quad Lawns to demand our university cut ties with genocide.
• I moved the main motion at the historic Student General Meeting demanding our uni cut ties with Israel.
• I was the SRC Education Officer this year, a position through which I proudly led the Palestine Solidarity campaign
• I’ve been involved in organising activism on climate change, the cost-of-living crisis and LGBTI+ rights
• and against the racism and the far right.
• I think that we need an activist SRC that stands up for the oppressed and against injustice.
Laura Alivio Arts/Advanced Studies III
Curriculum Vitae
• involved in Palestine activism, demanding the University cut ties with Israel and genocide, as well as regularly attending weekly rallies
• stayed over at the Sydney Uni Gaza Solidarity Encampment and helped to get the word out for it.
• helped build for the successful Student General Meeting for Palestine
• Fought to defend free speech on campus by organising agains the new Campus Access Policy
• involved in rallies against the Tamil Genocide in Sri Lanka
Emma Searle Arts/Laws I
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
• I’m a member of Students for Palestine, helping to grow Palestine activism on campus
• I stayed over at the Gaza Solidarity Encampment.
• I promoted the camp by postering, making lecture announcements and creating promotional material for the Students for Palestine instagram.
• Proudly helped organise the Student General Meeting and voted to demand our uni cut ties with Israel.
Annabel Pettit Arts VII
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
• SRC Refugee Rights Officer (2022,2023,2024)
• helped organise and promote rallies to demand permanent protection for all refugees- active member of Students for Palestine since the 2021 Sheikh Jarrah
evictions.
• Have since been a part of organising many forums and protests.
• including most recently the USYD encampment and Student General Meeting.
• involved in organising the NUS ‘Get a Room’ campaign last year that hosted rallies demanding affordable housing for all
• part of Uni Students for Climate Justice for the last 4 years, helping to organise climate rallies.
Tom Williams Science/Advanced Studies VII
Curriculum Vitae
• I’ve been an organiser in campaigns against course cuts and job cuts, campaigns for the environment and LGBTI rights
• I’ve also be an active part of Students for Palestine and the Palestine solidarity campaign on campus for many years.
• I was one of the SRC’s education officers in 2021 and one of the 2024 environment officers.
• I’ve been a left wing councillor on the SRC for several years.
• I’ve spent my time on council arguing the SRC should be an unabashedly left-wing.
• And as an activist body the SRC shouldn’t spend its time begging for scraps from management.
• I reckon we need more people involved in the campaign for divestment, and in all fights against social injustice.
Gus Wong Education I
• I have
[BG] SAVE ExtensionsSimple
Policy Statement
S - tudents
A - dding
V - alue for E - veryone
Have you ever applied for a 5 day simple extension? We know that feeling - being SAVED on an assignment when other commitments crowd your schedule. Now it’s time to SAVE what has SAVED us!
SAVE SIMPLE EXTENSIONS
This year, the University is threatening to cut or even abolish simple extensions altogether. Even so, the alternative process of special considerations remains incredibly slow and painful. Abolishing simple extensions would leave students out to dry and dramatically increase the number of students penalised for no fault of their own.
SAVE SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
The current special considerations process often contains errors, we will campaign to provide more attention to online services and represent students with unfair outcomes. The online process is also highly confusing from finding the correct website to downloading the correct template for required documents. It is already hard enough to go through an illness or unforeseen circumstance!
Join our movement and vote for us to SAVE SIMPLE EXTENSIONS!
CANDIDATES
Alexander Buchanan Arts I
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
• Editor of Eton College’s debutante Political Journal
• Law internship at 3 Verulam Buildings
• Moved to Australia for Uni as a dare from a night out (in Amsterdam)
• Licensed busker (strictly bagpipes)
• Was dropped as a child
Arden Skinner Arts/Advanced Studies I
Curriculum Vitae
• Selected for the National Arts School Intensive Program
• I have such a deep interest in meme making. I wish I was joking.
• I’m constantly editing my friends and parts of my life to create funny videos and pictures
Josh Botha Science/Advanced Studies I
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
• Barista
• Hockey Coach
• Ridden and fallen off an ostrich
• Can’t get enough “Kewpie Spicy Mayo Sauce”
• Really like rocks
Aadit Bhandari Arts I
No photo supplied.
Curriculum Vitae
• Student council president at my high school
• Head of communications at my school newspaper
• Model United Nations
• Project manager at an interior design firm
have been
in the campaign for Palestinian liberation for the past year.