Written by Rayni Shrestha
As a student at Charles Sturt Uni on the Bathurst campus and a member of the Student Representative Committee, I’ve had the opportunity to see how Student Services and Amenities Fees (SSAF) can turn student ideas into a reality.
When I first heard about SSAF, I thought it was just another university fee. But being involved in student representation has shown me how SSAF funding comes back to students in very practical ways – from making meals more affordable to creating opportunities for students to relax, connect, and feel more involved on campus.
Thursday Cheap Eats:
One of the initiatives supported by SSAF on the Bathurst campus is Thursday Cheap Eats, held at Rafters, the university’s bar.
Students can enjoy dinner for as little as $5, making it a great option for students who are looking for an affordable meal while studying. But it’s about more than just dinner. The dinners often include bingo and other activities, making it much more enjoyable.
Foundation Day Winter Warmth:
Another event that brought students together was Foundation Day Winter Warmth, held on 22 July to celebrate the university’s birthday.
The afternoon was filled with activities, food, and entertainment, including a live singer, cake, popcorn, fairy floss, a silent disco, a spinning wheel and, of course, Charlie, the bird. It was a nice opportunity for students to step away from the usual routine of classes, work, and study, and simply enjoy some time on campus with friends to de-stress during a busy semester.
Menstrual Equity Project:
We also have an ongoing Menstrual Equity Project supported through SSAF funding. We’re putting together small bags containing essential period products, such as pads and tampons, and making them available in toilets around the university for anyone who needs them.
We’ve even made some cute stickers to help students recognise the project when they see it around campus. We believe that no student should have to worry about not having those essential products while trying to attend class, study, or participate in university life.
For me, being involved in these initiatives has shown that some of the most meaningful changes on campus can start with something as simple as a student idea. SSAF gives students an opportunity to have a say in what their campus needs and to help turn those ideas into something that can benefit the wider student community.
The annual SSAF funding round gives students the opportunity to put forward their ideas for initiatives that could improve the university experience for you and your fellow students.
So, if you have ever thought, “I wish our campus had…”, this is your sign to do something about it.
Charlie blog is a SSAF initiative.
