UWA Student Guild Annual Report 2015 by UWA Student Guild

UWA Student Guild 2015 Annual Report

CONTENTS Executive Reports President’s Report. . ...................................................................Page 5 Managing Director ’s Report . . ...................................................Page 8 Finances & Budget Report.......................................................Page 10 PSA President’s Report............................................................Page 12 Guild Executive Reports...........................................................Page 14

Committee Reports Catering & Tavern Committee.. ................................................Page 17 Corporate Services Committee...............................................Page 18 Governance Committee............................................................Page 20 Student Services Committee...................................................Page 22 Volunteering & Community Engagement Committee..........Page 24 Welfare & Advocacy Committee.............................................Page 26 Strategic Resources Committee . . ............................................Page 27 Equity & Diversity Committee.................................................Page 28

Office Bearer Reports Education Council.....................................................................Page 31 Public Affairs Council...............................................................Page 32 Societies Council.......................................................................Page 33 Albany Students’ Department.................................................Page 34 International Students’ Service...............................................Page 35 Environment Department.........................................................Page 37 Education Action Network.......................................................Page 38 Queer Department.. ...................................................................Page 38 Mature Age Students’ Department......................................Page 41 Residential Students’ Department. . ........................................Page 41 WASAC........................................................................................Page 42 Welfare Department. . ................................................................Page 43 Women’s Department...............................................................Page 45 National Union of Students..................................................Page 46 Senate Representative. . ............................................................Page 46 Sports Department ..............................................................Page 47

EXECUTIVE REPORTS

PRESIDENT’S REPORT by Elizabeth O’Shea

This year has seen a large level of transformation and

campus, including club and Department activities, and these are

reorganisation in the Guild. As an organisation with more than 102

aspects of the UWA experience that attract students to UWA.

years of history, the Guild faces the constant need to evolve to meet stakeholder expectations, while remaining true to our core

Through proactive media engagement, strong brand management

purposes – representing students through advocacy, providing

and genuine engagement with the student body and community,

valuable student services and quality catering, and helping to

I believe that the Guild has become more than just a voice for

enrich the student experience at UWA.

students, but a genuine voice for youth on key issues in the public forum.

The Guild has been focusing on six key transformational platforms to meet our objectives and transform our operations to continue

Increasing engagement with UWA staff, the broader community

to excel in both advocacy and service provision, and continue to

and UWA Student Guild alumni have been key achievements for

exceed expectations as one of the best student organisations in

this year:

this country. • Associate Membership STUDENT REPRESENTATION AND DEPARTMENTS 2015 has seen the Guild’s Associate Membership double after 2015 has seen a high level of activity from the 102nd Guild

increased communication and engagement with UWA staff,

Council. As President, I wanted to focus on building the image

including the UWA Staff Association and the National Tertiary

and reputation of the Guild and increasing our presence within

Education Union (NTEU). Associate Membership allows staff to

the community, while ensuring that everything that the Guild

receive member benefits while supporting the Guild financially.

does is of value to students. I have prioritised collaboration across

Associate Membership initiatives also increase communication to

student portfolios, representation and the diversity of the student

staff surrounding Guild services, which can then be recommended

body, and a consistent focus on value-add and differentiation. The

to students. We have also increased our engagement with CELT

following outlines some of the Guild’s key priorities for this year,

(Centre for English Language Teaching) and Study Smarter

with some example initiatives that have been implemented.

students, who are eligible for Guild Associate Membership throughout their courses.

Brand, Reputation and Community Engagement • The UWA Student Guild presents His Holiness the 14th Dalai This year we have had a strong focus on the UWA Student Guild

Lama of Tibet

brand, ensuring that we have a clearer messaging strategy in place in order to better communicate our services, value and

Earlier this year, the UWA Student Guild hosted His Holiness the

aims to both the student body and the community more broadly.

14th Dalai Lama of Tibet for a discussion titled ‘The Importance

After rebranding in 2014, we have seen a very positive community

of Education’. It was truly a momentous day for our organisation,

engagement with the Guild this year and an increasing awareness

and I was pleased to be able to organise this experience for UWA

of the Guild’s role and place on campus in the student body.

students, staff, high-school students from around Perth and WA,

This involves finding better ways to communicate our initiatives

and the community. The event was a once in a lifetime experience

to students and better branding the Guild’s activities and

for all involved, and was streamed online so that as many people

achievements, so that students are more aware of what they

as possible could be involved with the event. The video recording

receive in services and advocacy in exchange for their membership

that is hosted online on YouTube has over 10,650 views and rising.

and a portion of their Student Services & Amenities Fee (SSAF). Organising an event of this scale was a huge undertaking, but The Guild has increased its presence in local media, being featured

brought incredible value to the community, and many people

in local newspapers a number of times throughout the year,

who experienced the event would have never been able to do

including for our catering initiatives, Guild Volunteering, carbon

so otherwise. His Holiness’ words of wisdom, sense of humour,

offsetting of O-Day, and various campus based campaigns. I

answers to the questions of students and jokes between questions

have been proactive in seeking positive media engagements

left all attendees with something to take away into their own life.

surrounding student activities and the student experience on

•

Guild

Council

Morning

Tea

with

The

Honourable

Kim Beazley AC The Guild Alumni project was successfully launched on August 13 with ‘A Guild Council Morning Tea with The Honourable Kim Beazley AC’. This occasion commemorated the completion of the UWA Centenary restoration projects, repairing the Guild Council Meeting Room table and chairs. The event was a great success, where Kim Beazley spoke very fondly of his time on campus and discussed the history of the UWA Student Guild, its comparative success through various attempts to reduce its power and autonomy throughout political history. It was a huge honour to host Kim Beazley and to have him say that he was proud to see the Guild as it is now, and that he loved coming back to the place that made him who is he today. The event was attended by a number of past Guild Presidents and Office Bearers. The many who were unable to attend gave their apologies with notes that they would love to be involved in the

THE GUILD HAS BEEN FOCUSING ON SIX KEY TRANSFORMATIONAL PLATFORMS TO MEET OUR OBJECTIVES AND TRANSFORM OUR OPERATIONS TO CONTINUE TO EXCEL IN BOTH ADVOCACY AND SERVICE PROVISION, AND CONTINUE TO EXCEED EXPECTATIONS AS ONE OF THE BEST STUDENT ORGANISATIONS IN THIS COUNTRY.

coming years. This bodes well for the future of the project and I hope we can establish a structure where this can be formalised

FUTURE DIRECTION

moving forward. The UWA Student Guild has had an active and busy year, with a Student Representation

number of significant capital projects eventuating and a number of new initiatives and activities being trialled. We are moving

The Guild is the representative body for all UWA students, and

more into the online space, focusing on genuine representation

in representing the diverse student body, needs to make active

and engagement with students and on building our position in

efforts to be inclusive and representative of the diversity of

the community.

students at UWA. The Guild currently has a number of Office Bearers that represent various groups on campus, including the

The Student Lifecycle data is already making changes in the

Women’s Officer and Queer Officers, but there is very limited

Volunteering and Catering spheres, and when tied in with our

representation for some other groups. As such, 2015 has seen the

Transformational Strategy, I am confident that the Guild will

expansion of the Women’s Collective to include Women of Colour

continue to grow and excel, increasing value to students and

and Queer Women Collectives, while work has been done to start

stakeholders into the future.

to establish initiatives surrounding the representation of students with disabilities and medical conditions, and students from

With my term as President ending in November, I am pleased

culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. The Guild exists

that this year has been a year of growth that will leave successive

to give a voice to students and we are constantly trying to find

Guilds well placed to continue to exceed expectations in delivering

ways to ensure that this representation is genuine and thorough.

a second century of services, representation and advocacy.

Value-add and Differentiation

Lizzy O’Shea 102nd UWA Student Guild President

In seeking to establish the Guild’s ‘value-add’ in all operations, and differentiate our services, we have been seeking to establish detailed data on the needs, wants and key motivators of different types of students while they are on campus. Over the past year we have developed a ‘Student Lifecycle Report’ which highlights the changing profiles of students (such as Domestic/International, Undergraduate/Postgraduate) in order to establish whether the Guild is providing adequate services across all operations, how we can appropriately market our services to students at different stages of their time as a student, and whether there are additional services that could be required to fill any gaps in need or interest. This piece of research will be used to inform all operations and we intend to expand upon this in future.

president@guild.uwa.edu.au

MANAGING DIRECTOR’S REPORT by Tony Goodman

Introduction

New Management Structure

The last twelve months at the UWA Student Guild has seen a

At the beginning of 2015 the Guild introduced its new

great level of transformation and reorganisation.

management structure which allows for greater control of the organisation across its key divisions: Student Services,

Operating for 102 years, the Guild, like any other organisation,

Corporate Services, Human Resources and Catering.

faces operating and external challenges. Like other organisations

Associate Director positions have been included, in between the

the end result is a constant need to evolve to meet stakeholders’

manager and director level positions, within the organisation.

expectations while remaining true to the organisation’s core

This allows for better succession planning and creating greater

purposes – representing students through advocacy, providing

accountability and management oversight.

good value student services and catering, and helping to enrich student social engagement and overall experience at UWA.

The new structure is working well across the organisations’ department and with the student representative team.

To meet the consistently changing environment that the Guild operates within, the organisation launched its Transformation Strategy. This new strategy focuses around transforming practices and perceptions and is namely not changing what the Guild does, but adapting the way we do it, communicate it and deliver it. The UWA Student Guild is focusing on six (6) key platforms for meeting the organisation’s objectives and values.

DIGITALISING PROCESS, PRACTICES & SERVICES

CREATE QUALITY & VALUE

CUSTOMER CENTRIC FOCUS

BRAND MANAGEMENT

AS PART OF THIS TRANSFORMATION THE GUILD HAS PLACED STAKEHOLDER MANAGEMENT AT THE HEART OF ITS DECISION MAKING. THE ORGANISATION IS STRIVING TO ALIGN THE ASPIRATIONS OF ALL OF ITS KEY STAKEHOLDERS – STUDENTS, STAFF, UNIVERSITY AND THE WIDER WA COMMUNITY. Operating Practice •

UTILISING DATA & MAXIMISE RESOURCES

New processes, operating systems and websites.

As part of its Transformation Strategy the Guild has installed a variety of new systems, processes and operating practices. These are seen in all Guild departments including items such

EFFECTIVE ENGAGEMENT WITH STUDENTS

as; student loan applications, trailing online club banking, new accounting software and processes (introduction of NetSuite), and a new event management and approvals system. The launch of several new websites and the new Guild Weekly

As part of this transformation the Guild has placed stakeholder

e-newsletter has also transformed the organisation’s external

management at the heart of its decision making. The

communication channels and is building student experience and

organisation is striving to align the aspiration of all of its key

interface with the organisation. Good examples of this include

stakeholders – students, staff, University and the wider Western

the new TexChange website, new Guild homepage, Clubs and

Australian (WA) community.

Societies section and more.

Tying the entire Transformation Strategy together is MyGuild,

Audit and Risk

which in its initial launch phases, provides students with all of

In April 2015 the Guild submitted its annual Financial Audit and

their clubs and societies memberships information, committee

Student Service and Amenity Fees (SSAF) Report to UWA Risk

activity, events activity and other information. Students can

and Audit Committee. This forms part of the Guild’s compliance

now obtain a ‘Student Experience Transcript’ of all of the Guild

obligations under SSAF legislation. The Guild is pleased to

related activity and training undertaken during their time at

report that the committee fully commended the report and that

UWA, which can then be added to their CV.

the Guild met is obligations.

The next phases of development for MyGuild will include adding Guild Volunteering and Eat & Drink to Guild services. The Guild’s strategy is to move as much of its backend operation as possible into a digital environment. Construction Projects & Refurbishments In 2015 the Guild has continued to invest in ‘bricks and mortar’ infrastructure projects to enhance student experience on campus. These projects include: •

•

THE GUILD’S MASTERPLAN (THE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS PLAN FOR GUILD VILLAGE PRECINCT) IS CONSISTENTLY BEING REVIEWED TO MEET THE NEEDS OF STUDENTS.

Student Collaborative Zone – a new area on the first floor of the Guild Central wing (old administration area) for

Human Resources

student clubs and societies, meeting rooms and storage.

The Guild launched its first Human Resources strategy in May

Target opening is the beginning of 2016.

2015. This links in with the Guild’s Transformation Strategy and

Subway and Boost Juice outlets – construction has started

places its staff management, talent and recruitment as a central

with the target opening of both outlets scheduled for

part of the organisation. Succession planning, increased training

second semester 2015.

opportunities, health and wellbeing are key parts of the new

Solar Panels – as part of the Guild’s sustainability plan the

strategy which is aiming to bring all divisions and staff closer

Solar Panel project received its green light and will be put

together, to deliver better support and services to students.

in place on the roof of the UWA Business School in 2015. • •

Hackett Café – a refurbishment of the café’s kitchen areas

In May 2015, the Guild Council agreed its Enterprise Bargaining

took place and new furniture has been installed.

Agreement (EBA) with Guild staff. This will be operational for

Nedlands Café – new kitchen and service area has been

four years.

upgraded as well as new garden and furniture added. •

Tavern – the new fence perimeter as designed by ALVA

The Guild has launched a series of UWA compliance training for

students is in the approval stage and looking to be

health & safety for staff and successfully engaged in reporting

implemented by 2016. The new beer garden furniture has

and measurement of health and safety compliance.

been added. In the next twelve months the Guild will be focusing on greater The total level of investment dedicated to the projects will be

staff training and redesigning an effective transition plan for

circa $2.3 million. This is mix of Student Services Amenity Fee

incoming councillors and office bearers, with the assistance of

CAPEX budget as well as the Guild’s funds.

Guild student representatives.

The Guild’s Masterplan (the construction projects plan for

Summary

Guild Village precinct) is consistently being reviewed to meet

The Guild has been successfully operating and levels of output

the needs of students. Future areas for project consideration

of service, products and support for students at UWA has

include; development of the top level of the Guild Central wing,

been maintained to a professional standard. 2015 has seen

Cameron Hall, Reid Café furniture, the internal section of the

considerable acceleration in projects and initiative taking which

Tavern including heating, cooling and new décor.

is shaping the Guild to be well placed for its future ambitions.

FINANCES & BUDGET REPORT by Mutya Maraginot-Joseph

The Guild budget is prepared in consultation with all Managers,

NOT

Directors, Student Representatives and the Guild Council. The

THE SSAF

ALL

OUR

OPERATING

INCOME

COMES

FROM

Guild Council approves the budget based on the recommendations from the Strategic Resources Committee.

The Guild receives roughly 28% of its income from the Catering Division, the Tavern, its various Commercial tenants and the

The Guild budget balances the resources required to provide

Second-hand Bookshop.

student services, run the organisation, provide sufficient capital funds for future improvements and maintain a prudent level of cash reserves.

2015 SOURCES OF NET OPERATING INCOME Student Services &

The Guild does not carry any debt within its balance sheet; instead

Amenities

operating using a combination of Student Services & Amenities

Funding

Fees (SSAF) income, commercial income and income from its investments. These cash reserves, held within the Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s investment pool, are valued at $1.1m.

Second Hand Bookshop 0%

(SSAF) and Associate

Tavern -1%

Membership 72%

Property 11%

In 2015, the Guild estimates cash operating deficit of $128,833*.

Catering Division 16%

Adding non-operating income from investments and insurance recovery of $1,164,092, the net cash surplus before capital expenditure is estimated to be at $1,035,259*.

2015 SSAF DISTRIBUTION SSAF is a University applied fee; not all of it goes to the Guild.

In continuation with the projects started in 2014, the Guild has

UWA Student

UWA Administration

Services 28%

Fee 5%

budgeted capital expenses of $2.4m in 2015. This is funded from

Capital Fund (UWA Senate

both the SSAF Capital Fund of $1.1m and the remaining amount of

to allocate to student

$1.3m from the Guildâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s investments and operations. Major projects

projects) 9%

include Catering outlet refurbishments, Subway and Boost Juice Outlets, Guild Student Central Hub projects, Solar Panels and MyGuild. This is in line with the overall drive of improving the

UWA Sports

services provided to the students.

Association 29%

Guild 29%

The following charts outline the percentage breakdown of the operating income and expenditure and the distribution of the

2014 BUDGETED GUILD EXPENDITURE

Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF).

The Guild provides a variety of services and support to students. IT Services 4%

* Based on Mid-year Budget Review

Financial Services 14%

Student Representation 17%

Sub Council and Guild Departments 10%

Administration Services 14%

Student Assist 10% Volunteer Centre 5% Student Services 26%

PSA PRESIDENT’S REPORT by Vikraman Selvaraja

The Postgraduates Students Association (PSA) is the primary

more diverse and global cohort of students that the postgraduates

representative body of postgraduate students at UWA. We

at UWA are.

represent HDR students and students engaging in Professional Doctorates, Masters by Coursework and Graduate Diplomas.

3) We organised a variety of new events and continued the

Overall, we represent close to 7000 students at UWA. Our core

successful events from previous years which most postgraduates

functions are to advocate on behalf of our members, and to

found extremely useful in making new friends and contacts

facilitate professional development and a sense of community

throughout the university.

among our members. Beyond that, 2015 has been a year where concerns of postgraduate We achieved this through three main methods:

students regarding fee deregulation and the strategic direction of the university have been extremely live. Combined with the

1) Representation of postgraduates on major university, faculty

impact of budget cuts on major scholarship programs that

and school level boards and committees. In 2015 the PSA

the university has instituted, there have been significant and

Committee Members sat on the Academic Board, Academic

continuing negative impacts on the experience of postgraduate

Council, Education Committee, Curriculum Committee, Education

students at UWA. We have, in conjunction with the Guild and the

Futures Strategy Group and a cascading series of faculty and

UWACutsHurt campaign, done our best to make these concerns

school level committees. Most importantly, as President of the

heard by the university but this is a battle which will outlive the

PSA, I am a member of the University Senate and through that

life of this committee. I am certain the fight will be taken up ably

forum I advocate strongly on behalf of postgraduates at UWA.

by the incoming 2016 committee.

2) PSA Committee members are active participants of the

I am very pleased with the many good things we have managed

management, direction and activities of the UWA Student Guild.

to achieve this year but there is always room for improvement

We assisted in the development of new food and drink options

and I look forward to next year’s PSA taking up where we’ve

offered by the Guild, with a particular focus on the Tavern and

left off.

future Halal food offerings, catering more effectively to the far

GUILD EXECUTIVE REPORTS by Lucy Moyle, Ashleigh Kotula and Jesse Martino

VICE-PRESIDENT REPORT by Lucy Moyle The role of Vice-President is extremely versatile and involves undertaking a variety of projects throughout the year, however they all link to the over-arching theme of ‘catching’ students who are falling through the cracks in terms of their representation on campus. This has come to fruition on my role as a member of the fortnightly UWA Parking Appeals Board, as well as through the creation of representation@guild, an initiative developed in the Corporate Services Committee to ensure that there is an easy path for students to share their ideas and their feedback with Guild Councillors, who can help them to action their suggestions. The reformation of the International Students’ Council has further improved representation in the Guild, and will be an

THE REFORMATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS’ COUNCIL HAS FURTHER IMPROVED REPRESENTATION IN THE GUILD, AND WILL BE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR THE ISS DIRECTOR AND COMMITTEE TO ENSURE THAT THE NEEDS OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ARE MET AND THAT THEIR VOICE IS REPRESENTED IN ALL ASPECTS OF UNIVERSITY LIFE.

opportunity for the ISS Director and Committee to ensure that the needs of International Students are met and that their voice is represented in all aspects of University life. I have also been the Head of the Mature Age Students’ Association (MASA) and have contributed and helped guide the committee in becoming more independent in ensuring

SECRETARIAL REPORT by Jesse Martino

that mature age students are represented on Guild Council and to the University.

The Guild Secretary is primarily an administrative role – compiling agendas, reports, minutes and resolutions for Guild Council

I have also been managing the Guild Campus Representatives,

Meetings and following up business from previous minutes. I have

from each of the UWA satellite campuses: Nedlands,

also worked to coordinate and manage student representatives to

QEII, Claremont and Albany. I have worked with these

ensure they achieve and implement their policy objectives.

representatives on how to ensure students on their campus are being engaged in campus culture as much as possible.

This year I made sure that a number of administrative tasks have

I have worked especially with the UWA Albany Centre and

been streamlined and ensured that we meet our compliance

the Albany Students’ Association, to help train up their

as an organisation to our Guild Regulations. For example,

committee as mentors for new students and to develop an

clarifying the role and expectations of the Executive Officer of

Albany prospectus to help in approaching Albany businesses

Guild Committees, provided template guides for Office Bearers

for student discounts at the Centre.

completing reports, agendas and minutes, and I have ensured that the minutes from Guild Committees are visible, accessible

The need for representation for students with a disability or

and available on the Guild website.

a medical condition has been especially noted this year, and

Lizzy and I have collaborated with UniAccess to secure a forum

In addition, I have organised and facilitated the election of

for students to gauge whether the services we are providing

Ordinary Committee Members onto Guild Committees through

are sufficient. This forum will culminate in the establishment

Guild Council, and ensured that those students have regular

of a Collective, where the data will be forwarded on to.

contact with the Chair of their Guild Committee and are engaged

with the administration of their committee. I have also organised fortnightly Office Bearer meetings to encourage regular contact

TREASURER REPORT

and communication between the Guild Executive and the Office

by Ashleigh Kotula

Bearers, as well as between the Office Bearers themselves.

The Guild Treasurer plays an important role in the management of

This helps facilitate project collaborations and offers general

the Guild, in a financial sense. This year has been jam-packed with

support.

clubs requesting financial help and assistance to operate as best as possible. My role is very dynamic, and constantly keeps me on

I helped to organise a Mid-Year Planning Day to allow Councillors

my toes. The problem solving aspect of being Guild Treasurer is

and Office Bearers the opportunity to present what they have

one of the parts that I enjoy most about this role.

achieved thus far this year, as well as their plans for the rest of semester and how they will set out to achieve them. The forum

This year, there have been six overdrafts granted to clubs, so far.

allowed student representatives an opportunity to read and

There have been two for lapsed clubs who have just restarted,

review the Mid-Year Budget and provide feedback.

and had a negative balance at the time of lapsing. Furthermore, four other overdrafts have been approved for either International

I have taken on a number of special projects through my role on

Tournament Registrations, Ball Deposits or historically successful

the Guild Executive. In particular, I have facilitated the production

events with significant initial expenses. The overdraft application

of The Student Lifecycle Report with Chloe Jackson (Associate

passes through the Executive before approval of the loan is

Director of Student Services), which details the lifecycle of

granted.

a domestic, international, postgraduate (by coursework) and post-graduate (by research) student and has identified the gaps and omissions whereby students aren’t engaged in student life and are not provided with the support they require. This document will also serve as a strategic directive for Guild Council in its decision-making, its implementation of additional support services to students, and ensuring existing support and assistance services are more visible and better promoted.

The Overdraft Application process required a complete overhaul this year, as the previous process was out-dated and insufficient. Recently completed, this was my biggest and most significant financial project to date, and it’s one that I am most proud of. The new process is incredibly streamlined and simplified, and allows for greater transparency and record keeping. The increase of the Guild’s presence at UWA events has also been enhanced this year, with the largest amount of clubs and societies

I have coordinated Guild Councillor volunteer contribution

ever, being present at the University’s Open Day. The involvement

to Guild events, including Orientation, Guild Ball, EOSS1

of students and Guild representatives in the activities on the day

(End of Semester Show), St Patrick’s Day and Octoberfest. I

was spearheaded by myself and the Guild Events Department,

have chaired the Cruikshank-Routley Memorial Ball, EOSS1 &

as we worked to increase the visibility of the Guild to the wider

EOSS2 Planning and Preparation Committees and subsequent

community.

organisation and logistical management. I have also ensured councillors and members of Guild sub-councils are provided with opportunities to be involved in this process. I worked with Rida Malik on the Welfare & Advocacy Committee to facilitate the roll-out of Welfare Week in Semester 1 and 2 and helped with the production of the Mental Health Mind Map which aims to increase the visibility and accessibility of mental health services on campus. I have also worked with Lucy Moyle

Simplifying the financial recording process of the Student Departments has also been an on-going project of mine this year. Establishing streamlined and easy to use budgeting templates has allowed for the Office Bearers to feel more comfortable in their expenditure tracking. This simplifies the process of creating the budget for the following year, which was a challenging process for me coming into the role, hence, I hope I have made at least one person’s life easier!

to build relationships with members of the Albany campus

Looking forward to the rest of the year, focus is on continuing

Student Committee and to hear and respond to their issues and

to introduce streamlined recording processes by department.

concerns through the Guild Albany Volunteering weekend.

However, the main focus lies with a collaboration project between the Tavern, Events, Societies Council and Treasury, which has seen the beginning stages of a Tavern Function Package. The absence of such a package has seen UWA be considered lacking in comparison to its other university Tavern counterparts, and the development of this has been long overdue! Keep an eye out for its debut soon.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

CATERING & TAVERN COMMITTEE by Ashleigh Kotula Unaudited trading results for 2014 - Catering Description

2014

2013

Net Surplus

$443,358

$119,388

Member Discounts $649,611

$580,385

Net Contribution/

$699,773

$1,092,969

BIGGEST PROJECTS FOR 2015: Refurbishment and renovation was a big theme this year, with three different outlets receiving partial, if not full, makeovers. Both Nedlands Café and Hackett Café had work done, including painting, repairs and furniture replacements. Hackett Café also has its own short-order

Value

menu, which is a brand new initiative for a Guild-operated outlet.

The mid-year point for 2015 has recorded a net surplus of $172,591 -

The Tavern has also had a facelift, with the furniture in the beer

well ahead of budget $68,320 and the cash generated from catering

garden being replaced. The more comfortable seating increases the

operations is about $237K v budget of $168K.

Operations have

ambience and shapes the atmosphere of the Tavern into a positive

tracked well, although sales have been soft in the first 6 months of

one. The Tavern menu and drinks list has also had a complete change,

2015, due to the reduced university student intake.

with new items available for students and extended trading hours. The

Unaudited trading results for 2014 - Tavern Description

2014

2013

Net Surplus

$13,637

$32,137

future holds further renovations for the interior of the Tavern, however, that project is for a future committee! Reid Library Café also extended its trading hours to coincide with the long hours that students put in during the breaks. This was met with

Since October 2014, the tavern had its Manager (of almost 15 years)

many positive comments from students who were happy to have the

go on sick leave until July 2015 (approximately 10 months). The

option of a hot meal anytime before midnight.

implications of a staff member taking sick leave for such an extended period means salary and on-costs have to be borne by the cost centre

Subway and Boost Juice are also currently under construction, with

unlike annual leave which has been previously provided for in the

an expected completion and opening date by the end of Semester

accounts. The additional impost was approximately $40K.

2. This has been a very long process that is finally coming to fruition.

During the first 6 months of operations the Tavern operated as normal and all events were held as usual, however, there has been a societal change in regards to student culture, and student drinking habits – with many students becoming much more responsible with their consumption.

MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2015: •

the Refectory, and also the introduction of chips into kebabs. •

to discuss the operational and front of house workings of the Catering Division at the Guild. The committee deals with a variety of topics that have different impacts on the overall success of the outlets. This year, the committee has been both very active and very innovative in the ideas that have arisen in meetings to improve or change current

Cups and Dr Pepper cans. •

This survey was conducted to ensure that reliable student feedback

little to no backlash. •

has been achieved this year. University Functions Caterers (UFC) has been performing better than

Both gluten free bread and hot water were made available for students for free this year, with the exception of needing to purchase a cup for the water!

•

The $5 Welfare Meal which was proposed in Council but has been monitored on its success by the committee. It seems to be travelling well.

•

The selection process for on-campus vendors has been under review, with changes made to increase the accessibility for expressions of interest, and a greater student consultation

common problems arise within the Catering Outlets.

I hope all members of the committee are pleased with everything that

Products that were identified as unpopular were replaced with counterparts for a trial period. The soy milk was changed with

from a number of sources was collected, to be used to improve any

It has been a pleasure working alongside such a committed team, and

New coffee cups and paper bags are now in all outlets, with the final designs decided by the committee.

•

There has been an increased focus on student feedback this year, with the Student Centre running a Catering Survey during February 2015.

The Refectory Coffee Stop is stocking a number of new internationally popular products, including Reese’s Peanut Butter

process and products. The workload for the committee is quite high, as there are constantly issues and ideas arising.

Ice coffees, chocolates and mochas are now available in all Guild Outlets, extending the drink range.

•

The Catering and Tavern Committee is comprised of Guild Councillors, Staff Members and Ordinary Committee Members who come together

Changes in food products including different salad varieties in

involvement in the process. •

Uniforms for staff were introduced in the Tavern and the uniforms in other Guild Outlets were revamped

•

Progress towards running a Food Truck Collective event on campus is also going well, with a potential date towards the end of semester – so keep your eyes out!

in 2014, with increases in university catering orders. Major events have included the Summer and Winter Graduation Ceremonies, along with the Senate and Convocation Dinners. 17

CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE by Lucy Moyle The

Corporate

Services

Committee

manages

the

internal or inward-facing aspects of the Guild, namely IT, Finance,

Administration,

Processes

and

Procedures

and

Record-Keeping. This year, the committee has placed great emphasis on refining and tightening procedures in the finance division, as well as attempting to shift the internal focus to slightly external, as to advertise the importance of aspects like Finance and IT to students and make assistance in these areas more easily accessible to students and clubs. Guild Councillors and Ordinary Committee Members have been fantastic in their roles on the committee, bringing together an array of strengths and passions which have enabled the committee to branch out from just being a reporting body.

MEMBERS HAVE BROUGHT TO THE TABLE CLUB KNOWLEDGE, IT SKILLS, DESIGN SKILLS, FINANCE UNDERSTANDING AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT EXPERTISE TO ENSURE THAT COLLECTIVELY, THE COMMITTEE ACHIEVES ITS AIM OF MAKING INTERNAL STRUCTURES MORE ACCESSIBLE TO STUDENTS.

Members have brought to the table club knowledge, IT skills, design skills, finance understanding and project management

Achievements:

expertise to ensure that collectively, the committee achieves its

•

Launched MyGuild to clubs, promoting it as a way to streamline club membership and events, make their clubs

aim of making internal structures more accessible to students.

more visible to students and ensure Guild services are more easily accessible.

Semester Two focuses on the formalised written documentation of procedures and policies in the corporate services area.

•

Reviewed demonstrations of accounting systems, and recommended the acceptance of NetSuite as the Guild’s new accounting system to SRC and Guild Council, based on characteristics including the Blanket Purchase Order function and the way that data will be stored.

•

Developed representation@guild, a way to deliver ideas and feedback to Guild representatives from students to both encourage Councillors to take on projects and engage

Hi, and welcome to MyGuild!

students in the Guild. •

Launched

Eat

Drink

(Catering),

PSA

and

Events

Application/CRM websites . •

Began to investigate upgrading the Guild’s Exchange server

•

Accepted the UWA Student Guild IT and Digital Projects Strategic Plan, which leads the strategic direction of the Guild to ensure that it is up to date with technology.

•

Negotiated with UniPrint to ensure clubs would not overdraw their accounts when printing.

•

Initiated the testing of Club Online Banking through five trial clubs.

•

Viewed demonstrations of Electronic Document and Records Management System (EDRMS).

•

Updated the process for Emergency Loans, moving to an online form.

•

Began drafting the Commercial Tenant Selection Procedure, to ensure that formal direction for selection business tenants in the Guild Village.

GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE by Emma Boogaerdt

The role of the Governance Committee is to maintain and review the Guild Policy Book and ensure that the UWA Student Guild complies with the relevant policies and regulations. The Chair of the Governance Committee also chairs the Guild Council

LENGTH OF THE NEW ELECTION REGULATIONS: 21,297 WORDS

meetings, which requires making on-the-spot interpretations of the Standing Orders and Guild Regulations. The Guild Statute Book contains a copy of every regulation, rule, and policy of the Guild and is the definitive version of the Guild’s rules. Due to the prevalence of online record keeping

NUMBER OF MONTHS IT TOOK TO COMPLETE THE EDIT OF THE ELECTION REGULATIONS: 6

this physical document has often been ignored. Keeping this book updated throughout the year has been a challenge, but has ensured that there is a concrete and reliable source of Guild Policy. The Governance Committee’s biggest task in 2015 has been the redrafting and passing of the UWA Student Annual General Election Regulations, which covers the Guild Elections, Student Elections onto the University Senate, and the election of Delegates for the National Union of Students. As these Regulations are made under Statute 20, part of the state legislation which governs the University, changing them is a serious and arduous task. After the Annual General Election in 2014, the Western Australian Electoral Commission (WAEC) expressed concern over the current set of Guild Election Regulations and stated that they would not be able to enforce those regulations in any subsequent elections that they may be asked to run. As a result, the Governance Committee has undertaken the lengthy process of ensuring that the Regulations are updated to satisfy the recommendations of the WAEC and the University. Throughout the six month long process of editing these regulations we had a strong focus on consultation. We met with the WAEC to discuss their concerns and recommendations, and in the last meeting we received positive feedback about the new Regulations that have been drafted. We also consulted with the University Secretary and Head of Academic Policy Services, about passing the Regulations through the University Senate, and discussed the process involved with the Senate Legislative Committee. UWA Legal provided their advice on some of the legal aspects of the regulations and we engaged a team of lawyers from a corporate firm to go over the drafting of the document. This was to ensure that not only is the finalised document legally enforceable, but that it is as concise and accessible a document as possible.

NUMBER OF A4 PAGES OF THE ELECTION REGULATIONS: 82 The proposed changes to the Election Regulations come from consolation with all of these groups and, as a result, we are confident in the document that we have created. The Regulations successfully passed through the May Guild Council Meeting, then through the June Senate Meeting, and hence will come into effect for the 2015 election this year. Other

than

the

Election

Regulations,

the

Governance

Committee has also passed a number of other policies, including a Guild Social Media Policy, which will lead to better management of the Guild’s online social media platforms, and also the Queer Department Rules, which will make it easier for that Department to function autonomously. The Societies Council has also passed several policies to ensure that the management of clubs and tenants are clearer. The Governance Committee has a number of actives planned for the remainder of the year. The first of which is reviewing the Key Performance Indicators for the National Union of Students, written and passed in 2014, which will help determine the Guild’s affiliation. We will also be reviewing the proposed regulations for the Residential Students Department, and drafting an InCamera Minutes Policy, to improve the Guild’s accountability. The final project which the Governance Committee will be reviewing will be the Guild Regulations. The current version was drafted in 2013 when the Guild underwent a number of changes. In order to reflect the way the Guild has changed and developed over the past few years, these regulations are now desperately in need of review. No doubt this project will be a big one which will most likely transfer over to the term of the next Chair too!

STUDENT SERVICES COMMITTEE by Jesse Martino

The Student Services Committee is responsible for the frontline services that the Guild provides. That is, the Committee oversees the Guild’s delivery of student services, including Student Assist, memberships, publications, Guild Volunteering and Guild events. This year, the Committee has been primarily concerned with identifying and addressing gaps and omissions in the services, support and assistance that we provide to students, as well as increasing the visibility of the services we currently provide.

Minor (including stalls & bake sales)

35%

Medium

57%

Major (including pub crawls)

CREATIVE & DESIGN The creative department have successfully created the newly launched Pelican website and are in the process of developing a new look Volunteering website focusing on increasing usability. Creative have also supported Catering with the interior design

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

of the new look Hackett Café and Tavern Courtyard, positively

Communication: This year has seen the enhancement of a number of key Guild managed communication channels, streamlining our approach to showcase the value of our services through multi-channelled marketing campaigns. This has included the re-design of a number of communication channels including a new look Guild Weekly, the Student Guild Website, the development of a Pelican website. Social Media continues to remain the strongest of our communication channels and this will be supported by the creation of a social media strategy which will be launched at the end of the year.

impacting student experience and providing a comfortable space for students to enjoy before, between and after classes. STUDENT ASSIST Student Assist have seen a significant increase in cases in 2015 compared to 2014 and continue to see a steady increase in the number of cases, providing academic, financial and welfare support to the entire student body. This service will be expanded to offer face to face support via Skype, increasing accessibility for students off campus.

Marketing: The marketing of our services has been formulated around the Student Lifecycle to highlight services at times

More than 450 cases this year to date, including:

that are most relevant and valuable to the student population. Academic

179

Financial

251

particularly surrounding special consideration and appeals and

Welfare

Volunteering.

Grand Total

This has seen a significant increase in engagement with catering

(specifically

the

Tavern)

and

Student

Assist,

The Guild Student Centre provides advice and guidance to

464

Cases have included:

over 100 visitors daily, which include UWA students, clubs and societies, tenants and the general public. EVENTS

Financial - loans

148

Academic - special consideration

Academic - appeals

Financial - grants

The Guild Events Department has facilitated 489 events year to date, including the very successful twice-yearly Club Carnival;

Student Assist have also supported other Guild Departments in

a vibrant and engaging opportunity for students to meet clubs

the launch of UWA by Night, a safe campus initiative from the

and societies. Club Carnival attracted over 2000 students.

Women’s Department and the International Students Drop-in

A specific focus this year has been to increase the number of

Centre, a low barrier Ask Me Anything service.

on campus event opportunities for students to meet other new and returning students. We have seen a significant increase in

RESEARCH

the number and diversity of events held this year, of which 73% have been on campus and are broken down as follows:

Research projects were conducted which informed various strategies and initiatives including: •

Wifi Research project

•

Mental Health Mind Map completion

Dojo WA, The Bread Run, Baptistcare, Lynwood SHS Intensive

•

Orientation survey

English Centre, Beaconsfield Intensive English Centre, On My

•

Catering survey

Feet, Coolbinia Bombers JFC, Save the Children – It Takes a Village Program, Melville SHS, and Mindful UWA (with Guild Welfare).

GUILD VOLUNTEERING Skilled Based Volunteering Programs are continuing to expand Increasing engagement following the implementation of a new

and include Tax Help.

manager and a new volunteering strategy, focusing on adding value to the volunteer and community organising, looking at skilled

New Initiatives such as Micro Volunteering have been launched

based volunteering, working closely with clubs and societies,

providing

increasing volunteer management training opportunities and

community partners in between lectures.

students

with

opportunities

volunteer

with

introducing initiatives Events: There have been 2 regional trips in 2015. The first was to We have a 138% increase in the number of key partners who

Albany for the Albany Urban Downhill and the second trip was to

have had their roles’ transcript recognised and we have had 649

the Stirling Ranges for National Tree Day and Malleebound.

student register 9468 hours of volunteering this year to date, which is a 1000 hour increase on 2014.

Working with the department of Sport and Recreation and Volunteering WA we have increased the number of volunteers in

Guild Volunteering Internship Program has resulted in Guild

Sport hours and continue to do so.

Volunteering interns establishing key partnerships with Coder

VOLUNTEERING & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE by Jodie Koh

WHO WE ARE

was also made available to interns for the duration of yearlong

At Guild Volunteering, we aim to build a culture of student

program.

volunteering at the University of Western Australia, to facilitate student engagement, and to establish sustainable relationships

Sports

with community organisations. Guild Volunteering is a joint

Within Australia, sport volunteering is the largest area in which

venture between Volunteering WA and the UWA Student Guild,

volunteers engage in. Through a grant for the Volunteers in

and is leading the way in best practice through encouraging the

Sport Program of the Department of Sport and Recreation, Guild

development of student-led initiatives, leadership and education

Volunteering has been able to increase their capacity to engage

in the area of student volunteering. The contribution of student

with and support sporting clubs on campus and in the community.

volunteers to the community is acknowledged through means Initiatives that have been made possible through this grant

such as transcript recognition.

included having Guild Council and UWA Albany students The

Volunteering

and

Community

Engagement

(VACE)

Committee of the UWA Student Guild sets the direction of Guild

volunteer at the Albany Urban Downhill. This opportunity also allowed greater engagement between both UWA campuses.

Volunteering. Presently, staffing of Guild Volunteering include Claire Duffy (Guild Volunteering Manager and Executive Officer

Celebrating on a National level

of the VACE Committee) and Danielle Van Staden (Volunteering

As done so in previous years, Guild Volunteering celebrated

Officer).

the Friday of National Volunteer Week with V-fest. This saw 47 students partnered with 6 community organisations for an

AN OVERVIEW OF 2015

intensive morning of student volunteering across Perth. The

To meet the needs of UWA’s diversified student population, Guild

number of students who participated in this year’s event was up

Volunteering has expanded its range of volunteer opportunities

61% from 2014.

and initiatives to better cater for the interest and time commitment of students. These opportunities aim to compliment students’ degrees, contribute to their personal and professional development, and connect them to their peers and community. The areas listed below include ongoing opportunities and one-off events available to students. Internship Program The Internship Program equips students with the necessary training and support to develop the skills required to lead their own volunteer programs. This year, Guild Volunteering increased the number of positions available from 7 (in 2014) to 12. In addition to having 6 community organisations available for students to partner with, the option for interns to create their own program was also introduced. This saw initiatives such as a homeless bread run and a tutoring program to be established. Furthermore, the program was also made available to the clubs and societies at UWA for the first time. Save the Children UWA chapter were the first to join. The program launched with a two-day intensive training workshop. The first of which explored the passion, motivators and impact of student driven programs on community. The latter focused on relationship management, campaign strategies, volunteer retention, and transcript recognition. Ongoing support from Guild Volunteering and access to Guild Volunteering’s resources

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2015 • 153 COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS HAVE LISTED ROLES ON THE GUILD VOLUNTEERING WEBSITE • 43 COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS ARE ABLE TO HAVE THEIR ROLES TRANSCRIPT RECOGNISED (UP 138%) • 603 UNIQUE WALK-INS • 26,974 WEBSITE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY VIEWS • 12,778 HOURS OF VOLUNTEERING RECOGNISED ON SUPPLEMENTARY TRANSCRIPTS IN 2015/16 (UP 58%)

On top of this, National Student Volunteer Week held later in

Volunteering works with. This platform strives to bridge the gap

Semester 2, allowed for an Inter-University event; Tree Planting

between students and clubs. Micro-Volunteering Mondays allows

with Friends of Lake Claremont. This annual event was once again

time tight students to volunteer on campus for 30 minutes to 2

led by UWA in collaboration with Murdoch, Curtin and Notre Dame

hours in between classes. This initiative, designed to introduce

Universities. The event supported by the Volunteering To Learn

students to volunteering, has seen much success with 19 students

Project and Volunteering WA’s Tertiary Community Engagement

attending the first session, and 15 students at the second session.

Committee facilitated a unique opportunity for networking between the universities.

Changes Aside from the aforementioned changes, a couple of additional

Within the Guild

modifications have been made to the scope of Guild Volunteering.

Guild Volunteering has also continued its endeavor to strengthen

As of the beginning of 2015, service learning no longer fell under

relations with the various Guild Departments and Clubs at UWA.

the umbrella of Guild Volunteering, and its coordination has since

This year, Guild Volunteering has worked especially close with

been facilitated by the university.

PAC (Public Affairs Council) for Social Justice Week, and also SOC (Societies Council) to establish a Volunteering Zone (for

Furthermore, 2015 saw the discontinuation of the ‘In Conversation’

clubs with volunteering opportunities) during Club Carnival in

series. In Conversations with Guild Volunteering initially featured

Semester 2. One of the internship projects also collaborated with

a structured chaired discussion with a UWA Alumni, in the context

the Guild Welfare department to run mindfulness groups.

of Volunteering and Community Engagement.

New Initiatives

There is still potential for a restructure and rebranding of this

Two new initiatives; the Guild Volunteering Handbook and Micro-

concept following a successful collaborative panel with UWA

Volunteering Mondays have been introduced in an effort to

Young Engineers and Engineers Without Borders. The panel,

improve the engagement and transfer of information to students.

which was held during National Student Volunteer Week and

The handbook is a categorised directory that provides further

Australian Engineering Week, titled ‘The Social Impact of

insight into some of the clubs and organisations that Guild

Engineers’ exemplifies Guild Volunteering’s work with clubs.

WELFARE & ADVOCACY COMMITTEE by Rida Malik The Welfare and Advocacy Committee has students’ interest

and showcase support available for students on campus. This is

and welfare at heart. It is focused on ensuring student’s needs

such a useful resource and is available on the Guild website, or a

are being advocated, communicated and represented at all

printed version can be collected from the Guild Student Centre.

levels within the university network. So far, 2015 has proved to be an eventful year with collaboration between the committee

In future our aim is to distribute the Mental Health Mind Map

and various Guild departments, bringing together students and

to a wider audience of students and staff, so that the Welfare

staff and developing a range of student led initiatives.

Department, along with Student Assist, is in the process of applying for a $250 UWA LDAG small grant in order to achieve

The Welfare and Advocacy Committee and Student Assist have

this.

worked closely throughout semester 1. The Student Assist team have seen over 450 students already this year, proving they are an invaluable resource for students who are in need of welfare, financial and academic advice. Back in April 2015 the university introduced a new review (appeal) procedure that left many students with heightened anxiety and the fear of the unknown. Student Assist guided many students through the transition as well as other academic issues such as special consideration applications and academic misconduct cases. Welfare and Advocacy Committee reps and a member of Student Assist also sat on the UWA Local Drug Action Group (UWA LDAG) committee and with the help of the Guild President they were successful in attaining a $3000 grant from LDAG so that the Guild can provide a safe, chill out space for students at events. This initiative has been trialled during Mental Health Week and has been a huge success. In collaboration with the Guild’s Event Department, Student Assist have used the chill out space at ‘IBIZA’, the EMAS (Electronic Music Appreciation Society) event. This turned out to be a vital service provided to students as it gave them a safe space to wait for taxi, lifts or friends. International students’ welfare has also been a focus area for the Committee this year. In partnership with ISS (International Students Service) and Student Assist, the Guild set up a low barrier drop in centre for international students on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The uptake has been slow to start, but Student Assist has dealt with a number of serious international student welfare issues via the drop in centre. All departments hope that the uptake will rise as word of mouth spreads and the Guild continues to promote this great service. Mental Health Mind Map – Earlier in 2015 the Committee collaborated with Student Assist, student representatives, the research department and the design team to develop the Mental Health Mind Map, which helps students to find relevant mental health services on campus. This map also allows students to locate services according to low or no cost and identify online resources, all in the one spot. The map helped to increase awareness surrounding mental health, tackle stigma

WELFARE & ADVOCACY COMMITTEE HIGHLIGHTS • WELFARE WEEK: A WEEK OF EVENTS AND FESTIVITIES WITH FREE RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO MAXIMISE SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS • FREE WEEKLY PILATES CLASSES ON OAK LAWN • FREE WEEKLY YOGA CLASSES ON OAK LAWN • DE-STRESS DAY: COLLABORATION WITH UWA PAW TO BRING DOGS & PUPPIES, KITTENS, JOEYS, GOATS AND OTHER ANIMALS TO DE-STRESS STUDENTS ON CAMPUS • WELFARE BREAKFASTS: PROVIDING FREE BREAKFAST TO THOSE WHO MISS A MEAL IN ORDER TO ARRIVE AT UNI EARLY

STRATEGIC RESOURCES COMMITTEE by Elizabeth O’Shea

The Strategic Resources Committee reports directly to the Guild

position to weather this downturn in student numbers on campus

Council and is responsible for overseeing the Guild budget,

across the next few years.

property management and commercial operations, and has the delegated authority of the Guild Council to approve unbudgeted

The Bookshop continues to work well in the current environment

expenditure up to $20,000.

providing in 2014 a $180k return back to students on second-hand books. The environment does however remain challenging with the

BUDGET

market trend moving to online. The Guild online Texchange service

The Guild budget process has been well managed across the

is continuing to grow effectively.

year with 2014 financial result ending in an accounting profit of $140k. The 2015 budget is tracking well, with expenditure below

COMMERCIAL TENANTS & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

budgeted forecasts.

The Guild manages external services for students on campus. In the Guild village precinct a variety of commercial tenants have

This year the SRC appointed Deloitte as the Guild’s new financial

businesses which are there to primarily support the student

auditors. They will work with the committee and the Guild’s

population. In 2015 the process of upgrading tenant’s leases was

financial team on preparing the end of year accounts for the

launched. The aim is to have all leases updated by early 2016.

organisation.

The SRC has overseen a number of key construction projects and initiatives, namely the Student Collaborative Zone (first floor of

COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS

the east wing) and the new Subway and Boost Juice catering

2015 will be a challenging year in revenue generation due to

outlets. The committee also approved budget for the catering

reduced student cohort on campus. This will impact on two

outlet refurbishment program. In line with the Catering strategy,

revenue fronts for the Guild. Firstly, on the Student Service

focusing on quality and venue experience has seen the Guild invest

Amenity Fees (SSAF) which is distributed three ways by the

in improving the services of the following outlets; Hackett Café

University to; UWA Sports Association, UWA Student Services

(May 27), Nedlands Café (June 1), and The Tavern (July 10). The

and the Guild. Secondly on lower catering revenue due to the

Guild expects this program to continue into 2016 with other cafes

reduced volume of students being on campus. The Guild is in a

and the Tavern receiving investment in the future.

EQUITY AND DIVERSITY COMMITTEE by Charlie Viska

This year, the Equity and Diversity committee has remained

whom have not previously had an autonomous group or

committed to a number of objectives. Meeting monthly, the

space provided by the Guild. Consequently, the committee

committee has grown from its previous inaugural year and is

has made an effort to support both a Disabilities Collective

developing into an extremely important aspect of the UWA

and Ethnocultural Collective on campus. Whilst initial steps

Student Guild.

have been taken, this project should remain a focus of the committee in years to come.

Firstly, the committee aimed to increase representation for students whose interests, lived experiences and perspectives

Additionally, another focus of the committee has been to

are not necessarily present within the structures of the Guild.

encourage club committees to hold equitable events, as well as helping committee members understand and appreciate

The first steps that were taken to achieve this goal was to

the beneficial role that diversity has to play on campus. Given

co-opt new members onto the committee that we felt would

that UWA does indeed have such a diverse student body, the

add to the overall representativeness of the committee.

committee felt it was particularly important that the clubs

Whilst the committee is comprised of students of all different

and club committee members felt well-equipped to run

backgrounds, we found that this was a strategic move to

inclusive and engaging events. For this reason, the committee

increase the effectiveness of the committee.

released an Equity and Diversity guidelines document for clubs. Whilst not a definitive how-to, the guidelines provide a

IN STRIVING TO MAKE THE GUILD A MORE DIVERSE AND REPRESENTATIVE STUDENT BODY, ONE OF THE PRIORITIES OF THE COMMITTEE HAS BEEN TO SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGE THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AUTONOMOUS COLLECTIVES ON CAMPUS.

handy checklist of things that are important to consider when running, promoting and organising events and activities. It is hoped that the inclusion of an Equity and Diversity document in club resources will be a useful tool with which to engage a larger degree of the student populous in Equity & Diversity issues and ideas. Furthermore, the committee has collaborated with the University Equity and Diversity team to adapt a ‘Discovering Diversity’

workshop

for

Guild

staff

members,

student

representatives and club committee members. Included as part of mandatory club training, these workshops are a useful launch-pad for engaging students in these issues, as well as promoting good, equitable practices. The committee has used its position to endorse and promote

Additionally, active steps were made to ensure that all members

policies and guides that will help to make students feel as

of the committee, as per the Guild regulations, were included

comfortable as possible whilst on campus. In this role, the

in decision-making processes. As such, this year the Equity

committee endorse the Women’s Safer Spaces policy as a

and Diversity Committee actively sought out the contribution

distinct affirmation of the belief that all students have the right

of representatives from the Women’s Department, Queer

to feel safe when at University, particularly when in autonomous

Department, Welfare Department and Western Australian

safe spaces such as the Women’s Department.

Students Aboriginal Corporation (WASAC). Overall, it has been a successful year for the Equity and In striving to make the Guild a more diverse and representative

Diversity Committee. Hopefully the steps taken by this year’s

student body, one of the priorities of the Committee has been

committee may continue to be built upon by committees in

to support and encourage the establishment of autonomous

the future, working alongside each Guild department and

collectives on campus. This year, the committee has been

consulting with different student groups on campus.

dedicated to reaching out to student groups on campus

OFFICE BEARER REPORTS

EDUCATION COUNCIL by Tom Beyer The Education Council, which is chaired by the Education Council

Wifi has been a consistent issue for students in recent times and

President, has membership comprising representatives from

Lizzy O’Shea and I have worked constructively with the University

Faculty Societies and Guild Departments. The Education Council

BITS team to assist in an expansion of wifi in key areas for students.

provides a forum to address education issues and broader issues

Using data gathered by the Guild, we have now seen a massive

faced by Faculty Societies and the student body. The portfolio of

expansion of access points and back end hardware in the following

Education Council President covers the running and chairing of

areas:

Education Council, working with the Guild President to represent student Education Issues with the university at large, and ensuring

•

Geology/Geography from 4 to 47 access points

the Education Action Network is functioning effectively. The first

•

Business School from 29 to 53 access points

half of the year has been incredibly busy!

•

Guild Village and Cameron Hall from 5 to 27 access points

•

Oral Health Centre of WA from 5 to 47

This year Education Council has continued work started last

•

Reid Library third floor from 5 to 16 access points

year by reaching out to groups that have previously been under

This is not the end of the process of improving wifi on campus, but

represented. We’ve built on work done in 2014 to restart the ALVA

a great example of what can be achieved with a constructive and

Students’ Society and are working with Population Health Students

positive dialogue with the university.

to restart the Health Students’ Society. Furthermore, Education Council Vice-President, Melissa Lee, is working on a project to

Incidental Fees and Charges policy, and sometimes more

ensure that every student in the University is represented on the

importantly, enforcement of the policy, has been another focus

Education Council and no one falls through the cracks or goes

of the Education Council this year. Anecdotal stories of students

voiceless.

suffering from unexpected costs that they’ve encountered through their degrees are always concerning and we’ve strived to stand up for students in this area. Advertising student rights has unearthed

WE’VE BUILT ON WORK DONE IN 2014 TO RESTART THE ALVA STUDENTS’ SOCIETY AND ARE WORKING WITH POPULATION HEALTH STUDENTS TO RESTART THE HEALTH STUDENTS’ SOCIETY.

cases where students have been made to purchase something for a unit that was not allowed within the policy and in some cases we’ve managed to have students reimbursed for those costs! This year as Education Council President I have been involved in a University Review of Assessment Policy and at the time of writing this, a final draft of the new policy is being finalised and through thorough consultation and a constructive approach, there are many areas of vast improvement for students. Linking assessment to teaching and learning, or ensuring access to all assignments to review where a student performed strongly and poorly might seem obvious but it’s taken until this review to ensure this is the case. Furthermore, virtually eliminating 100% exams and limiting the use of failed component assessments will help improve student welfare

As well as reaching out to new groups that have been under

as the stress caused by these can be incredibly harmful. Students

represented, Education Council this year has also made a concerted

are also excited about the potential for greater transparency

effort to engage more effectively with student groups who are

around mark adjustment and moderation, as well as rules around

based primarily away from the Crawley Campus. This has involved

word limits and late penalties. That’s just a small facet of the

initiatives such as trips to the Nedlands and OCHWA campuses

recommendations from the review but I’m sure it’s something

to distribute Guild merchandise and speak to the students about

students will welcome with open arms.

the services the Guild offers, as well as discussing issues faced by Albany students with the Albany campus rep and speaking to

As well as the changes to assessment policy, another area that

Medical Students about Wifi issues they face.

we’ve seen massive improvements for students through working with the university in a positive manner is around timetabling policy

The advent of a Student Consultative Committee in late 2014 has

and processes. I’ve worked with a steering committee to implement

evolved to be a key facet of student representation, as it brings

improvements to timetabling for 2016 that will create a far more

together Guild leaders and Faculty Society Presidents with the

student-friendly timetable that, as well as being more convenient,

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education and heads of all student facing

will also provide far more flexibility and options. Furthermore, it is

departments to work through issues and grievances students

likely that we’ll have a new class preference allocation website in

may be facing. So far in 2015 it has been instrumental in working

operation for 2016, something sure to vastly improve the student

through many issues such as availability of textbooks in libraries

experience, particularly for enrolling students.

and students being given surprise assessments with no warning, to lecture recordings cutting off before the end of class and how the

All in all it’s been a busy year but one that I’m proud of!

university can better support students dealing with mental health and other welfare issues.

PUBLIC AFFAIRS COUNCIL by Charlie Viska The Public Affairs Council (PAC) exists to promote student and

Fair-trade Fashion Fest were all a great opportunity for clubs to

community awareness of and engagement in political, social

collaborate and promote social justice at our university.

and cultural issues on campus. As a council, PAC also aims to enhance students’ University experience through involvement

A reinvigorated Faith Week showcased a wide array of events,

with arts and culture.

including collaboration with the Women’s Department and an innovative Dine-at-Mine culture-sharing experience. A number

This year PAC has focused on the promotion of clubs and

of faith-based clubs eagerly joined in on this year’s festivities,

societies as well as complementing campus culture through

culminating in the Inter-faith panel discussion.

our organised events and themed weeks. One of the highlights of the year, our Fringe Festival, was an Our Poems on Oak and PAC Club Show-Off! events started

absolute blast! Featuring comedy, dance, music, art, installations

the year with an explosion of creativeness, artistry and talent.

and a throw-back 1950s-themed party, the UWA Student Guild

Both evenings were tremendous achievements and it was

Fringe Festival was a vibrant celebration of the arts and culture

a fantastic opportunity to showcase what our artistic and

on campus. Presenting a combination of both student and

performance-based clubs are capable of.

professional artists and performers alike, the two-week period made a huge impact in bringing the campus culture alive.

Our themed weeks this year have also been extremely positive, and had a great reception and engagement by students

As a committee, our vision has been to improve PAC identity

and members of the community alike. They were a great

between clubs as well as increasing communication between

opportunity to expand our commitment to student experience

the committee, clubs and the general student populous. The

beyond the main campus.

streamlining of communication through an organised PAC-only mailing list, as well as the establishment of explicit affiliation

Our Social Justice Collaboration was a huge success, largely

criteria has helped us to achieve this goal. Our weekly PAC Club

thanks to the incredible efforts afforded by Eloise Chenu (PAC

of the Week section in Guild Weekly was a great way to promote

Vice President) and Maya Shah, through their roles as co-

smaller clubs on a weekly basis.

chairs. Throughout Social Justice Week, our Teach for Australia Quiz Night, Social Justice Club Carnival, Film Screening and

It has been an action-packed year, and I look forward to seeing the Public Affairs Council expand its scope in years to come.

SOCIETIES COUNCIL by Nevin Jayawardena The Societies Council (SOC) is the home of all affiliated student-

could better support clubs and contribute to campus culture.

run clubs and societies on campus. Our club culture celebrates

SOC is also planning on holding the first ever Networking Event,

diversity and inclusivity, and is a part of why campus life here is

for clubs to learn about other clubs and encourage collaboration

so rich! With a range of clubs that suit just about every possible

events.

interest, there is bound to be a club for all! Tenancy The Societies Council’s primary focus for 2015 has been to support

The Guild hosts a variety of clubrooms in both the Guild Village

clubs through streamlined and improved procedures; providing

and Cameron Hall, where clubs are able to engage members and

better training material, increasing networking and promotional

the wider community in a variety of activities and events that take

opportunities, improving financial support, and introducing new

place throughout the year.

ways to manage a club online. The Guild provides maintenance and practical support to these ACHIEVEMENTS FOR 2015

clubroom tenants. This year, an active Tenancy Committee has seen the continued attention to these student areas on campus

Clubs on campus

with improvements to Wi-Fi and a dedicated tenancy budget.

We currently have 117 affiliated clubs for 2015. Of these, 10 have been newly affiliated this year. These clubs collectively

The Student Central hub, which is currently under construction,

run hundreds of events throughout the year and bring life and

aims to provide shared space to all affiliated clubs and societies

excitement to this beautiful campus. The popularity of O-Day and

including

Club Carnival is a great indication of why clubs are so important

workshop and storage. These facilities will help clubs plan and

to the UWA experience.

host the best events possible and foster the growth of our great

boardroom

facilities,

workstations,

production

campus culture. Administrative Support SOC has drastically improved administrative support to clubs

Thank you to the supportive and dedicated SOC Committee: VP

this year. This mainly includes the new Clubs’ Dashboard which

– Samuel Shenton, Secretary – Jack Looby, Treasurer – Olivia Jo,

comprises of individual club profiles, club history, an online

and OCMS – Lianne Leung, Sasha Johnson and Chelsea Kneale.

membership database, a working mailing list, online sign-ups, all of the relevant forms in one place, and a decoration lease/hire system which will soon be available. In 2015, over $90,000 worth of grants will be provided to clubs for O-Day, support for club events and initiatives through the new Special Projects Grant, general club expenses throughout the semester, and start-up grants for every new club. Clubs will also find it easier to manage their finances with more and more clubs moving over to online banking this year. SOC has spent much time in 2015 streamlining and rewriting templates, procedures and policies including the Clubs Grant Policy, Room Access Policy, Mailbox Policy, Tenancy Allocation Policy, the SOC Rules, the constitution template, and Treasurer Handbook. We have also created a new Clubroom and Storage Room Tenancy Agreement, Secretary Guide, Constitution ‘Howto’, Equipment Hire List, Event Budget Template, Constitution Template and a How-to-SOC Guide – an all-in-one guide to all things SOC. Events & Training This year SOC has also continued to run events like PROSH Olympics, the monthly SOC Meetings, two Presidents’ Summits, two Club Carnivals, multiple Treasurer Training sessions, a Google Workshop and the first ever Club Culture Conference, where clubs were able to voice their ideas and discuss ways in which the Guild

ALBANY STUDENTS’ DEPARTMENT by Katie McAllister The Albany Students’ Department of the UWA Student Guild

The committee is also busy working on improving the support

is representative of approximately 150 Albany-based students,

provided by the Albany Centre by funding Microsoft Excel and

undertaking studies at the University of Western Australia,

Word workshops for new students, providing volunteering

Centre of Excellence in Natural Resource Management and

opportunities as an outreach to the community, working with

Rural Clinical School of Western Australia.

and supporting local charities to provide garden furniture for students and organising community-based events such as the

2015 has been a successful year for the committee so far, with

upcoming talk with Eugene Eades, a local Noongar elder, who

an event held at a local restaurant/pub to celebrate the end of

is concerned about the spread of Dieback disease throughout

semester one and to create a sociable atmosphere for students.

the South-West.

Over 75% of the campus’ student population attended and the night was enjoyed by everyone. The committee has even

The Albany Students’ Department hopes to continue to

bigger things planned in semester two, starting with a sociable

improve its services to the Albany students, whilst maintaining

ten-pin bowling event acting as a meet-and-greet for students.

the foundations already provided, such as Guild-funded weekly

A Halloween scary-movie screening and party is also planned,

yoga sessions for students which aim to encourage relaxation

along with a paint-balling event and a whale-watching tour to

and de-stressing. There are many ideas in the process of

encourage socialising of students.

becoming implemented and we hope to continue to work closely with the student body of the Albany UWA campus, the City of Albany community and the UWA Student Guild in Perth.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS’ SERVICE by Sean Farrell Matjeraie The International Students’ Service (ISS) is a Guild Department

services and support to the colleges. Allowing international

that exists to be the peak representative body for all international

students to learn more about what the Guild can offer to

students at the University of Western Australia.

enhance their student experience.

ISS strives

to look after the well-being of all 5100 international students studying at UWA, as well as represent the international student

ISS GOES TO THE EAGLES

body on councils such as the Guild Council and the Education

•

Council of the UWA Student Guild.

This event was organised in partnership with the community engagement director of the West Coast Eagles. It allowed International students to learn more about Australia’s most

All International students are automatically members and

popular sport.

represented by the Department. They are also encouraged to sign up as committee members to get involved in representing

THE ISS SEMINAR SERIES:

international students and voicing their issues and concerns.

•

Migration Seminar (8th September 2015)

•

Employability Seminar (13th October 2015)

ISS also acts like an umbrella organisation for smaller

The two largest perceived issues for international students of

international clubs and student associations providing support

2015 are the complication of the graduate visa, and general

and advice when needed.

visa processes as well as the lack of graduate employment opportunities. This is why ISS endeavours to increase the

The Department is committed to organising high quality and

knowledge of international students to ensure they are fully

relevant events, both for international students to experience

prepared and have the correct expectations in both areas.

Australian culture as well as providing an avenue to engage with domestic students.

ISS GOES TO ROTTO 2.0 •

Due to the incredible demand of the semester 1 event, the

The ISS Director supervises the running of the department and

ISS Department decided to bring back the event, with the

is committed to a role of representation and advocacy for the

same price and offerings to provide more international

department’s members.

students with the opportunity to attend. Capacity has been increased to 75 people for this reason.

Key goals and achievements in 2015 Semester 1 events: ISS GOES TO ROTTNEST •

Part of a campaign to provide international students an opportunity to visit various tourist locations within the Perth vicinity.

•

Event was highly successful, with all 50 tickets selling out

ISS STRIVES TO LOOK AFTER THE WELL-BEING OF ALL 5100 INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS STUDYING AT UWA.

in just over 10 minutes. MULTICULTURAL WEEK (MCW) COURSE HELP BBQ

Targeted at a wider audience and funded by sponsorships and

•

The Course Help BBQ was an initiative by the Welfare

grants. This year looks to be the largest MCW yet, wrapping up

Department of ISS to provide students the opportunity to

on the Thursday night with SpringFeast. With an anticipated 60

meet with unit coordinators and tutors of various first year

stalls and close to 5000 people it is one of the largest single

units in the commerce and science faculties.

events at UWA.

MID-AUTUMN FEAST

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS COUNCIL (ISC)

•

This was a social Department event that brought together

One of the largest initiatives undertaken by ISS this year, the

the expertise of the MCW (Multicultural Week) Department

council aims to bring together all of the international clubs,

to provide international clubs a platform to raise funds and

faculty societies and colleges to become a collective voice for

to increase their reach and marketing.

the international students at UWA.

Semesters 2 events:

It will also act as a platform for collaboration and communication

ISS GOES TO COLLEGE ROW

between the international affiliates to provide quality events for

•

international students.

Part of an attempt to engage more with international students, ISS held an all of college event to bring the Guild

ENVIRONMENT DEPARTMENT by Jessica Cockerill Architecture, Landscape and Visual Arts).

2015 has been a big year for the Environment Department, in which we’ve had a number of opportunities to expand and

•

SERAG (Swan Estuaries Reserve Action Group) volunteer days

consolidate our presence on campus. Perhaps the most notable

•

SEN and Sustainable Initiatives collaboration on Campus Audits.

of these was the UWA Students say NO to Lomborg campaign, in which students and staff openly opposed the establishment of a Consensus Centre at UWA. Not only were we successful in this

Online

campaign, but our action also resulted in a greater mobilisation

This year we have put particular focus into our online presence,

of students on environmental issues. As such, the department has

in the hope that this will achieve better environmental awareness

expanded rapidly, as can be seen in the success of our numerous

among students, as well as reduce the need for paper advertising/

events and projects.

resources.

Events

•

Increased traffic on Facebook page

Envirofest, our major annual event, was 100% Guild-run and funded

•

Established an online Enviro Collective with 187 members

this year. It was a huge success, drawing the crowds with dingos,

•

Update

website

with

resources

including

the

revised

cockatoos, live music, and over 20 stalls for environmental clubs,

Sustainability Plan, a Sustainable Clubs Guide, and Sustainable

researchers and community groups.

Students Guide

We have also supported the Enviro Council clubs in hosting their

Projects

own events, including:

The hard work of our Project team has resulted in the following

•

successes:

AYCC (Australian Youth Climate Coalition): Earth Hour picnic; “Bye Bye Lomborg” tavern event; “Cowspiracy” movie night. PAW (UWA People for Animal Welfare): De-Stress event; two

Waste and Recycling

“Clothes Swap and Donation” days with Code Green.

•

Introducing default double-sided black and white printing.

•

SEN (Sustainable Energy Now): Laser Tag .

•

Continuing percentage reductions in printed election fliers to

•

Enviro Quiz Night, which is a collaboration of SEN, AYCC

•

and PAW.

ENVIROFEST, OUR MAJOR ANNUAL EVENT, WAS 100% GUILD-RUN AND FUNDED THIS YEAR. IT WAS A HUGE SUCCESS, DRAWING THE CROWDS WITH DINGOS, COCKATOOS, LIVE MUSIC, AND OVER 20 STALLS.

reduce paper use by 40% from 2013 levels. •

Continuing the KeepCup Program:

- Bring 1 Get 1 Tree campaign with EarthCarers and the

City of Subiaco resulted in 434 KeepCup uses in Science

and Reid cafes, which will translate to 434 natives being

planted.

- Guild KeepCup users diverted 18, 525 disposable cups

from landfill in the last financial year, giving students

•

$5,557.50 in coffee discounts. Initiating the Guild Recycling Plan, which consists of 3 focus areas:

- Catering: Front-of-house recycling bins have been

introduced inside the Refectory and Guild Café, along

with informative posters.

- Cameron Hall & the Guild Central Wing: The

recycling system aims to help tenants to manage

Volunteering

their waste. This system is still in the planning

Most of our projects and initiatives rely on the selfless efforts

stages.

of volunteers. This year we have a Projects Team of 25 regular

- The Guild’s Commercial Tenants: This stage has not

volunteers, who each devised and spearheaded their own projects.

begun yet.

We also ran several volunteering events, designed to engage a broader range of students. These events include:

Energy and Climate Change •

•

Approved funding for Guild solar panels, so that 40kW panels can be installed on the UWA Business School by late 2015.

The Guild Urban Orchard

- Establishment of a Coordinator role.

•

- Volunteer group meets fortnightly.

•

Installing a second bike maintenance station on campus.

- Installation of a worm farm, to compost green waste

•

Supporting the establishment of a Fossil Free UWA group on

from the garden itself.

•

Carbon offsetting O-Day.

campus.

A planting day for native garden at ALVA (Faculty of

EDUCATION ACTION NETWORK by Tom Beyer The UWA Education Action Network (EAN) has been incredibly

also maintaining a light-hearted environment and brand image

active in 2015, led by EAN Coordinator, David Cann. David

at the rallies and in materials. Various placards and posters are

has reinvigorated the group at a crucial junction in student

becoming ‘meme-worthy’ and have been increasingly popular on

representation with a focus on creating an engaging environment

social media.

where all students can feel comfortable. UWA is a particularly crucial campus in the campaign against The strong levels of student engagement this year in EAN has

fee deregulation given that our Vice-Chancellor has been one of

been in no small part because of the success of the O-Day stall,

Christopher Pyne’s most ardent backers. As such, there has also

where students were given the chance to send a message to

been a focus towards more on-campus activities for students who

cross-bench senator, Dio Wang, via Polaroid photos. Incoming

are concerned about fee deregulation to engage with. The EAN ran

students loved the idea and this made engaging with discussions

a hugely successful “Unhappy Birthday Christopher Pyne” event,

relating to education quality and Federal policy inclusive, low-

where the gimmick of being timed near the Minister’s birthday

barrier and great fun.

allowed a birthday party atmosphere of party hats, puppies to pet and fairy floss, creating a light hearted atmosphere to talk to

EAN has worked closely with the National Union of Students

students about their concerns with fee deregulation.

in the ongoing campaign against fee deregulation proposals. Through effective marketing, UWA has had large contingents at

The EAN in 2015 has been more inclusive and welcoming than

all NUS National Days of Action in 2015. David has led a team

in previous years, and the strong attendance and engagement in

of keen activists, who are able to have conversations with

their events by the student body is no coincidence. It’s been a

ordinary students about the effects of $100,000 degrees, whilst

busy first half of the year!

QUEER DEPARTMENT by Ellen Cohen and Ruby Blakeway The UWA Student Guild Queer department aims to represent the

Our biggest event thus far has been the department’s participation

LGBT+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, intersex, and queer)

in the Guild charity event Prosh. With both of our officers acting

community on campus and to provide a space where LGBT+

as Marshalls we successfully sold papers from 6am until 11am in

students can socialise. The Queer Department has succeeded

Claremont Quarter, and then made our way back to the university

in its goal of providing social events and support to the LGBT+

for the ensuing celebrations. We also sent three delegates to the

students of the University of Western Australia this year. We

Queer Collaborations conference in Canberra for education and

have provided resources on LGBT+ mental and sexual health in

information building as well as national networking.

the form of numerous pamphlets, a safe social space for LGBT+ students and events that cater specifically to the needs and wants

In the coming semester we have Pride Week to look forward to,

of the UWA LGBT+ community.

which will be in week 8 from September 14-18. We have a fantastic set of events lined up during this week of celebration and look

At the start of semester one, our office bearers worked with

forward to engaging with students across campus during this

the Guild executive to create comprehensive rules to better the

period. The biggest event so far is looking to be our collaboration

LGBT+ space on campus. These rules aid in ensuring the safety,

with UWA Careers and Alumni Relations on campus, which will

comfort and well-being of our LGBT+ students, and can be found

be a Career Panel featuring LGBT+ professionals starting at 6pm

on the UWA Queer Department’s Facebook page. Following the

on Tuesday the 15th of September. Events such as these assist in

implementation of these rules, we represented the university at

employment opportunities and networking for LGBT+ university

Pride Fair Day to advertise our presence on campus. We then

students at our university and others.

successfully ran a stall at UWA’s O-Day, having a ‘guess the lollies in the jar’, free drinks, distributing event fliers and also

Semester two looks to be an exciting one filled with events such

adding a record amount of people to our mailing list. In second

as discussion evenings, pizza nights and games evenings that

semester we had a stall at the Club Carnival, where we handed

aid in creating a support group for LGBT+ students at UWA, and

out pamphlets surrounding LGBT+ health, as well as distributing

educating the wider community on LGBT+ issues. We look forward

safe-sex barriers. These actions in and around campus aid in

to hosting many more events such as these, providing education

advertising the presence of our department on campus, and allow

and resources on and off campus, and welcoming newcomers into

us to better provide resources and support to the university’s

our department and community.

LGBT+ students.

MATURE AGE STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION by Tammy Pinkerton, Breeana Smith, Pat Hallett, Simon Branchi, Kim Pedler, Mark Smith & Lucy Moyle 2015 has been an historic year for the Mature Age Students’

University Club. MASA also held its inaugural AGM, electing a

Association (MASA) in its maiden year as a legitimate Guild

committee of six passionate mature age students coming from

Department, with the establishment of its first formalised

a range of disciplines and bringing to the table a plethora of

committee and innovative events taking the department to

ideas and projects. One of these individual projects includes

new representative levels.

surveys at MASA events about university life and involvement for mature age students, which has seen the data collected lead

Mature age students are, by definition, those who are aged 20

the department’s strategic direction for the remainder of the

or over when they enrol for the first time at a tertiary institution

year.

and follow such pathways as the Mature-Age Access Program (MAP), however the department has always been inclusive

Semester Two will see the launch of the department’s own

and welcoming to any interested students who wish to get

monthly newsletter, filled with events run by MASA, the Guild,

involved. Membership of MASA is determined by the number

UWA and the wider Perth community which will benefit mature

of students on the mailing list, which has grown significantly

age students. It will also contain advice and assistance from the

this year due to presence at both Guild O-Day and Guild Club

Guild and promote Guild and UWA services relevant to students.

Carnivals. Advertising events on Guild Weekly and on posters

The department will also aim to connect mature age students

around the University has also expanded numbers at these

to clubs and faculty societies across campus through the

events, and thus our membership.

MASA Open Day Forum. Exposing students to these groups on campus will mean that they, along with MASA, will understand

In Semester One of this year, MASA held a Welcome Back

the specific needs of mature age students and will strive to

Lunch in the UWA Guild Tavern, traditional Coffee Catch-ups

represent them to faculties and the University.

in Hackett Café, and an End of Semester Sundowner at the

RESIDENTIAL STUDENTS’ DEPARTMENT (RSD) By Kelly Dunn and Cameron Payne The Residential Students’ Department (RSD) exists to represent

•

the interests of the college community on the UWA Student Guild Council, and to assist the Guild in promoting the student

residents. •

experience for those at college. The RSD this year ran a large number of diverse events, including social, sporting, cultural and

Tav Show – marking the beginning of semester 2 for college Battle of the Bands – fantastic performances and support from all colleges.

•

competitive functions:

InterCollege Debating – held at St George’s College. It was excellent to see fiery wit and top-notch banter from all participants.

•

Fresher Festival – Games, Fresher Dances and competitions

•

as a friendly introduction for new college residents to inter-

event, with performances and pop-up stalls (featuring Pink

college events and to the other colleges. • •

Barbarians & Librarians Nightclub Party – kick-off to the

Spring Serenade – a new twist on the classic Arts Night lemonade) on a sunny afternoon in the St Cats courtyard.

•

InterCollege Pub Crawl – another new event, attendees had

RSD social calendar, held at Air nightclub.

a fantastic time bar-hopping with friends (new and old) from

LipDub Competition and Screening – the annual (and very

across college row.

popular) lip-syncing-music-video competition, this year • • •

followed by a games night.

This year the RSD also finalised their constitution, formalising

InterCollege Quiz Night – a great event with plenty of

their structure and processes and giving the organisation greater

comedy and prizes!

legitimacy and support for next year and beyond. The committee

InterCollege Movie Night – screened ‘Now You See Me’ for

structure and electoral process were also overhauled to improve

residents from all colleges with popcorn and snacks.

the RSD’s ability to capture and retain talent from across college

Annual RSD Charity Ball – held at the Parmelia Hilton (a

row, and to grow as an organisation.

move from Winthrop Hall as in previous years), with high levels of attendance.

WASAC by Torey Rickerby

In 2015, the sole focus of WASAC (Western Australian

campus through the sports medium. The Student Art Exhibition

Student Aboriginal Corporation) was to develop strong long-

concluded Marnda week with wonderful submissions from many

term relationships with various faculty societies and Guild

WASAC students.

departments, and to engage with our first year students to ensure they had a smooth transition into university life.

Another key event on the WASAC calendar is the National

With this in mind, WASAC had a much stronger presence on

Indigenous

campus through various social, cultural and sporting events.

This year WASAC sent a team of fourteen students and two

Tertiary

Education

Student

Games

(NITESG).

staff to participate in various sports throughout a weeklong

In the last week of semester one, WASAC hosted its annual

competition. Unfortunately the Western Waagyls couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t back

Marnda Week celebrations which saw over 150 students and

up their previous two championships and came in at fifth place.

staff attend the events throughout the week. The week opened

With the two major events out of the way for the year and a

with a cultural day, which involved student performances, a

less busy semester two, WASAC could focus on maintaining

Welcome to Country, various cultural artefacts and a lot of

relationships that it had developed throughout the year. A social

Aboriginal inspired food. The inaugural Marnda Cup was held

event collaboration with PESA in week 3 saw this relationship

next with WASAC and PESA (Physical Education Students

remain strong with plenty more to come. Every two weeks

Association) battling it out for first place in a friendly touch

WASAC put on a free lunch at Shenton House. This was an event

football match. The Marnda Cup was first introduced by the

to bring our students together and have a friendly yarn. This

WASAC committee to promote positive relationships and

year WASAC definitely achieved its goals and yet again has out

reconciliation between WASAC and other faculty societies on

done itself for another year.

WELFARE DEPARTMENT by Rida Malik

University should be a great experience for every student but it can

• Thursday Mental Health Day: People often don’t talk about

be a little stressful at times. This is why the Welfare Department

mental health, due to the stigma associated with it. In order to try

is committed to students’ health, safety and well-being and aims

and reduce this stigma and get more students talking and thinking

to ensure that every student is happy, de-stressed and aware

about mental health, the Welfare Department collaborated with

of the resources available to them on campus, so that they can

ECOMS (Economics & Commerce Student Society UWA) to hold

achieve their true potential at university. This year the Welfare

a free mental health awareness workshop, which was followed

Department has been busy implementing some new and exciting

by free pizza. The event was attended by a lot of students and

programs and initiatives in order to best support students.

deemed to be a huge success.

At the start of Semester One 2015 we launched Free Pilates on

The Department also teamed up with HUG (Hispanic University

campus, which successfully ran every Tuesday from 4-5pm on

Group) to run a free Zumba session. Google at UWA gave out

the Oak Lawn and engaged over 100 students each session.

free stationery to students and the Arts Union had a really fun

Due to the great feedback from students these weekly sessions

pillow fight (perfect for de-stressing) followed by a movie night.

continued into Semester Two. Like all Welfare Department events,

FABSOC UWA (Fashion & Beauty Appreciation Society) set up

these classes were free of cost and open to all Guild Members.

a ‘fabwall’ where students wrote messages on what makes them feel fabulous and how they take care of their mental health. We

The Welfare Department also continued weekly free Yoga

also had a meditation session run on Oak Lawn.

sessions every Wednesday from 4-5pm on the Oak Lawn in both Semester One and Two. Through a combination of social media

The Welfare Department gave Mental Health Grants to Faculty

promotions (Facebook, Instagram and Guild Weekly) attendance

Societies and Guild affiliated clubs on running innovative events

for these weekly sessions have almost tripled from 2014 levels

that aimed to improve the mental health of students during

and yoga has become solidified as a fixture in the annual Guild

Welfare Week in Semester One.

events calendar. The Welfare Department ran numerous free breakfasts in Semester Welfare Week was run in week 12 of Semester One & included

One aiming to provide breakfast to those who miss meals to come

four themed days of festivities and events with free resources

to uni early. We also teamed up with the Women’s Department

available to maximise support for students in order to get through

and ran weekly jogging sessions for all students, plus ‘women

the tough end of the semester.

only’ sessions every fortnight, to provide a safe space for women identifying students to exercise. These jogging sessions were

• Monday Food Day: We collaborated with UWA Arts Union in

followed by free breakfast and they were really well received.

running a free pancake breakfast and exam help session which was very successful. The department also ran a free BBQ

The Mental Health Mind Map is an initiative run by the Welfare

during lunchtime and also worked with the Guild Environment

Committee to increase awareness surrounding mental health

Department, giving away free tea and coffee with a Keep Cup

services on campus at UWA. The map can be used as an online

purchase.

tool for students or as a staff resource in its printed form.

• Tuesday De-stress Day: The highlight of Welfare Week as we

Student Assist is in the process of helping the Welfare department

collaborated with our good friends at UWA PAW (UWA People

apply for a UWA LDAG (Local Drug Action Group) small grant of

Animal Welfare) in bringing kittens, puppies, joeys, goats, dogs

$250 which will help distribute the Mental Health Mind Map to a

and so many other cute animals to de-stress students. We also

broader student and staff base.

ran a ‘Spot George the Pug’ competition where students took a photo of (or with) George the Pug on Instagram and then went

2015 has been great in terms of providing resources to students

into a draw to win a prize.

and supporting them in stressful times at university. The Welfare department will continue to run programs such as Free Yoga,

• Wednesday Health Day: We collaborated with external

Pilates and breakfasts until the end of the year, and into 2016.

organisations to hold free health and foot checks by REACH clinics and the Podiatry student society respectively. UWA Arts

Semester Two will feature weekly meditation sessions (in

Union also had a free art and craft session which was enjoyed by

collaboration with Guild Volunteering), plus a bigger Welfare

many students.

Week, including a chill out zone, self–defence classes and greater representation and support for off-campus students including ALVA, Medicine and Dentistry.

WOMEN’S DEPARTMENT by Emma Boogaerdt

The Women’s Department has two main functions; first, to provide services and a safe space for women students on campus, and advocate for their rights, and secondly, to run events, campaigns, and initiatives to promote the

WOMEN’S DEPARTMENT FACEBOOK PAGE LIKES: 1,177

achievements of women and raise awareness about issues that women are facing. We started off by giving the Women’s Department some much needed TLC by re-vamping the Women’s Room; adding

GENDER PAY GAP CUPCAKES SOLD: 100+

a table and some chairs to make the area an accessible study space, and painting one wall with chalkboard paint to allow women to express themselves on the wall. I re-wrote the ‘Women’s Survival Guide’, which provides women students with information on important services on and off campus.

NUMBER OF FORGOTTEN WOMEN FRIDAY POSTS SO FAR: 25

In order to improve the visibility of the Women’s Department and to assist students on campus we created posters and stickers with a map and instructions on how to find the Women’s Room. One major focus for this year was making the Department more inclusive, especially for women who face multiple forms of oppression, so we started up two new groups; the Women of Colour Collective, coordinated by Laura Mwiragua, and the Queer Women Collective, coordinated by Lizzie Long. Both of these groups have been successful in engaging with women who haven’t been involved in the broader Women’s Collective before. We also got involved in Faith Week and ran a ‘Women of Faith’ Panel Discussion, which again engaged with another new group of women. Every Friday I have been posting a ‘Forgotten Woman’ on the Women’s Department Facebook page to raise awareness about significant women throughout history, who haven’t been properly recognised. This has been a great way of raising the profile of the Department too! This year in March we ran the first-ever ‘International Women’s Day Breakfast’, which featured three fantastic women speakers. The event completely sold out so we had to expand capacity! The next night, in collaboration with the Colosoul Group, we ran a ‘Women in Music Festival’ on campus, which showcased the talent of local women artists from around Perth. We also included guest speakers, plus food and drink was available from BarPop. Safety on campus has been a big focus for us this year. Along with the Welfare Department we established a jogging club for women students, and plan to run self-defence classes during Semester Two. I have collaborated with the Guild’s Student Assist team to run ‘UWA By Night’ - a nighttime campus tour

tips, followed by a short self-defence lesson. This initiative was coupled with the ‘UWA At Night’ map that was created with the Guild Design team. This interactive map shows information about which areas of campus are well or poorly lit at night and provides information on assault, safety, and security. I am also planning on collaborating with Faculty Societies and colleges to create a survey into safety on campus which can inform the Guild and University’s approaches in the future. The Women’s Department has run a variety of campaigns throughout the year. In Semester One we focused on the Gender Pay Gap, sharing information about the extent and effect of it. We held a movie night and also ran a cupcake stall, which charged different prices depending on the impact of the pay gap on the purchaser, to raise awareness about the issue. In second semester we have run Bluestockings Week, which celebrates the achievements of women in higher education, by collaborating with the NTEU to hold a ‘knit-in’, hosting a ‘Women of Colour in Higher Education’ discussion, and a banner-painting session. Later on in the Semester we will be running Sex Consent Respect Education Wellbeing (SCREW) Day to promote information about sexual health and consent to students. Other activities of the Department include working on creating a new issue of Damsel Magazine, an autonomous publication which

allows

women

students

express

themselves

creatively. We also had some students attend the Network of Women Students Australia (NOWSA) Conference in Hobart which included valuable skill sharing workshops and speaker sessions.

of UWA which shows women students the most well-lit paths to take, how to use the help points, and gives general safety

NATIONAL UNION OF STUDENTS by Elizabeth O’Shea

peak

that could price many students out of an education. NUS also

representative body for tertiary students in Australia. The

supported campus Presidents in meeting with local Federal

UWA Student Guild is affiliated to NUS, which means that

Senate Crossbenchers, and assisted the UWA Student Guild in

UWA students can be represented and have a voice at a

lobbying Senator Zhenya Wang from the Palmer United Party,

national level, when decisions are made that affect their lives,

who was influential in ensuring that the fee deregulation did not

experiences and education.

pass through the Federal Senate.

UWA Student Guild Office Bearers have been able to work

NUS have supported the UWA Student Guild with resources

with NUS Office Bearers on nation-wide campaigns across all

throughout SSAF (Student Services and Amenities Fee)

campuses relating to women’s safety, fair pay for graduate

negotiations, and the ‘Save Our Voice’ campaign, which opposes

work, international student rights, education quality and a

proposals to remove student, staff and graduate representatives

number of other topics. NUS has also actively collaborated

off University Senates/Councils. The NUS West State Branch has

with UWA Office Bearers on issues relating to the Federal

also worked with the Guild to run campaigns at a state level.

The

National

Union

Students

(NUS)

the

budget, including running a nation-wide campaign against fee deregulation and proposed higher education changes

SENATE REPRESENTATIVE by Maddie Mulholland

The University of Western Australia is governed by the

The Senate is the highest level of representation in the UWA

Senate – a body comprising elected members of the student

structure and it is crucial to have student involvement at

body, academic and general university staff, Convocation

this level. This ensures that the student voice is heard in key

(graduates), external appointed members and co-opted

decision making and that key student issues are raised and

members. The Senate is chaired by the Chancellor, Michael

addressed by the Board.

Chaney. This year we have been working with the University to address The Senate is the peak decision making body at UWA, and

poor teaching quality results, build trust in Guild activities and

has the power to make and uphold University statutes,

those of our affiliates, and identify student groups as a great

regulations and by-laws, whilst also discussing events and

source of improving the student experience on campus. We

projects and influencing the organisation’s strategic direction.

have sought explanations on decisions that affect students

The full Senate meets every two months and the minutes of

such as the proposed introduction of the Australian Consensus

meetings are available on the UWA Website.

Centre and effects of deregulating fees, and we have worked to bring student facilities (such as Wifi and parking) to the

The 2015 elected student members of the University

table for consideration.

Senate are Lizzy O’Shea in her capacity as Guild President, Vikraman Selvaraja in his capacity as the Postgraduate

We believe that the contributions of elected student

Student Association President and Maddie Mulholland as

representatives ensure that the University’s peak governing

a student-elected member. The Guild President sits on the

body have been positive and constructive in 2015, ensuring

Senate Strategic Resources Committee and all three student

that the University doesn’t lose sight of students and that

Senators can be drawn on for membership of the Board of

key principles of transparency and accountability are upheld

Discipline. Other Senate committees include the Audit & Risk

when it comes to student fees.

Committee, the Chancellor’ Committee, Research Committees and the Perth International Arts Festival (PIAF) Board.

SPORTS DEPARTMENT by Elizabeth O’Shea

This year has been a year of change for Sports at UWA, with

in discussions over the transition of the Sports Council back

provision of sporting services for the University transitioning

to the Guild.

closer into the University structure as “UWA Sports”, when previously this had been an external body. The UWA Student

This year the Guild has been active in pushing for a more

Guild President and Guild Sports Representative were

consultative process surrounding the allocation of SSAF

members of the Board of the previous entity, and oversaw

(Student Services and Amenities Fee) revenue by the

the transition to the new entity with particular concern for

University. UWA Sports currently receives 30% of all student

the provision of services to student-run clubs and societies,

SSAF revenue, which is the same base allocation that the

and the delivery of quality sporting services and choices to

Guild received in 2015. Guild representatives have also been

all students. This transition between entities has required

ensuring that there is increased funding and support for Inter-

the Guild’s role in oversight and assistance with sporting

College sporting activities, and a focus on social sporting

services to change and grow, with the Guild and University

opportunities that all students can access.