Rising living expenses and tuition fees often leave students trying to manage on a limited budget. After all, elapsing time with the pressure of academic expectations combined with financial hardship can be a recipe for meltdown. But help might be closer than most students realise.
UC has created and implemented numerous initiatives in association with community organisations as well government schemes to make sure students can access help should they require it. Below are the key recommendations to students from Ele Saclier, Senior Coordinator of Student Wellbeing at the University of Canberra.
UCX Pantry
One of the standout services is the UCX Pantry. It is located at the UC Hub across from the UCX Student Lounge. They are open Tuesday from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M., Wednesday from 4:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. and Thursday from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.. The pantry provides free food to make sure students are getting what they need without relying only on ramen noodles.
Each week, using their student ID card, students will receive 15 points to spend at the pantry. The items include fresh bread, fruits and vegetables, pasta sauces, dry pasta or noodles and many more. Ele says, “the points don’t accrue over time, so if you missed one week you can’t spend double the amount the next week.”
Care Financial
When students come in for budgeting assistance, Ele and her team generally refers them to Care Financial. “They are a non-government organisation and help anybody who is managing on a limited budget,” she says. Care Financial is a critical resource for students who need assistance with budgeting, debt management and planning financially for the future.
UC’s partnership with Care Financial includes giving personalised advice tuned to each student’s different circumstances, enabling them for better money decisions.
Student Empowerment Fund
UC’s Student Empowerment Fund is a much-needed safety net for financially troubled students. Each request is funded through generous donations from UC staff and community members, and is meant to provide short-term assistance to students in emergency situations. Whether students have an unexpected expense rise or need a safety net for a tough period, it means they can focus on their studies and not fall into financial trouble.
UC Medical and Counselling Centre
At UC, student health is another top priority. Students can get free care at the on-campus medical and counselling Centre. Students can book bulk-billed doctors appointments, consult with a registered nurse or access mental health support through counselling. For international students, the situation varies slightly. “There may be a small out of pocket fee but that gets reimbursed by your overseas health insurance,” Ele says.
Don’t be scared to reach out for help
Whether you are struggling with budgeting, need assistance with food or rent, or are experiencing a financial emergency, UC’s support programs are here to help. Students may rely on a strong network of assistance during challenging times by combining university resources, collaborations, and government programs.
Ele and the team are always there to help students. Her advice to students is clear: don’t be afraid to reach out. The help is here, and you just have to take that first step.
For any further questions or information, contact UC Student Wellbeing on 02 6206 8841 or email on wellbeing@canberra.edu.au. You can also meet a team member at the Student Central on Mondays to Fridays from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M..