Help shape the future of La Trobe.
The University is now calling for nominations for the election of a postgraduate student to the La Trobe University Council. The term of appointment will be from 29 May 2026 to 31 December 2026.
This election follows the work of the Expert Council on University Governance, established by the Australian Government to review governance standards across public universities. Its Final Report and Principles (released in late 2025) emphasise strengthened accountability, transparency, diversity of perspectives and meaningful engagement with staff and students in institutional decision making.
The La Trobe University Council has considered these Principles and is strongly supportive of their intent. In line with this, Council has resolved to expand its membership to enhance staff and student representation.
Staff membership will increase from two positions (including the Chair of Academic Board) to three (to include both an academic and professional staff member), and student membership will increase from one elected position to two (to include both an undergraduate and a postgraduate student). These changes will bring staff and student representation (excluding the Vice-Chancellor) to nearly 30% of total Council membership, representing a significant step in strengthening their voice in university governance.
As the currently elected student on the University Council for 2026 is an undergraduate student, there will now be an election for a postgraduate student for the remainder of 2026.
What is the University Council?
The University 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, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Theo Farrell, government appointees, La Trobe staff and student members.
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 12pm on Wednesday 29 April 2026.
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 as to the next steps. Email elections@latrobe.edu.au if you have any questions.