Become a student member on the University Council and help shape the future of La Trobe

Love La Trobe and want to help make the student experience better for others?

The current elected student member’s term comes to an end on 31 December 2023; therefore, the University is now calling for nominations for the election of a student member to the La Trobe University Council. The term of appointment will be from 1 January to 31 December 2024.

What is the University Council?

The Council is the governing body of La Trobe and looks after the general direction and monitoring of the University. Its responsibilities include:

  • Appointing and monitoring the performance of the Vice-Chancellor
  • Approving the Uni’s mission and strategic direction, annual budget and business plan
  • Monitoring risk
  • Overseeing academic activity
  • Approving significant University commercial activities

Council members include our Chancellor, the Hon. John Brumby AO, the Vice-Chancellor, government appointees, La Trobe staff and a student member.

So, what does it take to be a student member?

Firstly, don’t worry if you haven’t been involved in student politics before. It’s not a prerequisite.

Ask yourself: Have you been on a student advisory group? Perhaps you’re a Peer Learning Advisor with a finger on the pulse of the student population? Maybe you’re an engaged student at a regional campus who wants to make sure the voices of your peers are heard? These are all relevant perspectives to bring to Council.

What is the role of the student member?

On the University Council, elected members don’t represent the constituencies from which they are drawn (all members are required by law to act in the interests of the University, rather than as delegates for a particular section of the La Trobe community).

Your role would be to bring a student perspective to the University Council.

How do I nominate?

If you are interested in nominating for Council, you need to read the information on the Council website and complete the online nomination form by 12.00 pm on Thursday 21 September 2023.

Further information

Full details of student eligibility to nominate, the nomination process and other relevant information to help guide your decision can be found on the Council Elections webpage.

If more than one nomination is received, then an election will be necessary. It will be held online via a third-party vendor. In that event, students will be advised of the next steps.

For further queries, contact the Returning Officer (Council), email: elections@latrobe.edu.au