Using Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) principles, this program will support you to:

• Explore your core values and how they can help to guide you through tough times.
• Share your experiences in a safe, welcoming and confidential space.
• Connect with others through common experiences.
• Learn to face life challenges, including those caused by discrimination.

Secure a place in our 2025 Semester 1 online program, commencing 26 March (Week 4).

Key dates

The Finding Pride program runs once per semester, with students attending seven 1.5-hour sessions over seven weeks. Available at the Bundoora campus (Semester 1) or online (Semester 2).

Semester 1 2026 – programs run every Thursday afternoon except 9 April.

• 26 March 2026 – Session 1
• 2 April 2026 – Session 2
• 16 April 2026 – Session 3
• 23 April 2026 – Session 4
• 30 April 2026 – Session 5
• 7 May 2026 – Session 6

Who can join?

Finding Pride is for all La Trobe LGBTIQA+ students who are questioning, discovering, or unsure if they belong in LGBTIQA+ communities. All students are welcome, including:

• International and domestic students
• Undergraduate and postgraduate students
• Full-time and part-time students
• On-campus and online students

Important links

– To register and a detailed FAQ visit Finding Pride.
– Get more information about LGBTIQA+ counselling here.
– Access a list of external supports here.
– Find out more about LGBTIQA+ life at La Trobe here.

The post Finding Pride semester 1 – registrations open! appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

Students can explore everything from world‑class facilities and social competitions to elite pathways and community events. The best place to start is the Melbourne Campus Orientation – Welcome Festival on Wednesday 25 February, held at La Trobe Sports Park Stadium from 11.00am to 2.00pm. Visit the La Trobe Sport stall to meet the team, learn about sporting clubs and secure your on‑campus gym membership. Check your Orientation Planner for full details.

Below are six ways to get involved with sport and active recreation at La Trobe this year.

1. Train and play in world‑class facilities

Located on campus, La Trobe Sports Park is Australia’s first integrated sport, research and education precinct of its kind. Students have access to a range of state‑of‑the‑art facilities designed to support all levels of participation, including:

• Sports Park Stadium, featuring six multipurpose courts for basketball, netball, futsal and volleyball
• Sports Park Sporting Fields, catering for Australian Rules Football, Rugby Union, Football, Cricket and more
• The Sports Performance Hub
• The Home of the Matildas, supporting elite soccer programs

Whether you’re booking a casual game with friends or training seriously, La Trobe’s facilities are built to help you perform at your best.

Explore La Trobe Sports Park
Book a court today
Learn about the Sports Performance Hub

2. Take advantage of exclusive student gym discounts

La Trobe Sport operates two gym facilities, located at the Melbourne (Bundoora) and Bendigo campuses.

To welcome new students, La Trobe Sport is offering a special Semester 1 Orientation discount, with students able to receive up to 50% off regular gym membership prices at both campuses.

This limited‑time offer is available until Sunday 22 March. Visit the La Trobe Indoor Sports Centre or Bendigo Sports Centre and speak with the reception team to secure great value access to on‑campus fitness facilities.

View Melbourne Campus membership options
View Bendigo Campus membership options

3. Join a La Trobe sporting club

With 25 affiliated sporting clubs across our campuses, there’s something for everyone—from social participation through to competitive pathways.

All clubs are student‑run and supported by La Trobe Sport, helping create strong communities that extend beyond the field or court. Joining a club is a great way to:

• Meet like‑minded students
• Build friendships
• Represent La Trobe
• Stay active throughout the year

Browse our sporting clubs

4. Play social sport with La Trobe League

If you’re looking for competition without a long‑term commitment, La Trobe League offers social sport competitions throughout the year at both Melbourne and Bendigo campuses.

Open to students, staff and community members, La Trobe League takes care of fixtures, umpires and ladders—you can sign up as an individual or enter a team.

Participants are encouraged to join the La Trobe League Facebook group for the latest competition updates, fixtures and ladders.

Sign up for a La Trobe League competition in Melbourne
Sign up for a La Trobe League competition in Bendigo

5. Access exclusive sport partnerships and experiences

Through partnerships with leading sporting organisations, including Carlton Football Club and the Bendigo Spirit, La Trobe students and staff can access unique opportunities such as:

• Game‑day experiences
• Internship and industry pathways
• Mentoring opportunities
• Free or discounted tickets to selected matches

These partnerships provide a chance to connect your passion for sport with professional experience and real‑world networks.

Learn more about our sport partnerships

6. Represent Team La Trobe

Students can represent Team La Trobe at intervarsity competitions such as UniSport Nationals and the University Basketball League, competing against universities from across Australia.

If community events are more your style, you can still get involved through on‑campus activities such as the Social Cycle at the Autumn Cycling Classic in April and the Team La Trobe Walk & Run in September. Follow La Trobe Sport on social media for updates and event announcements.

Become an Eagle
Participate in Team La Trobe community events

Stay connected in 2026

For updates on organised sport and high‑performance programs, follow La Trobe Sport on Facebook and Instagram.

If gym access and general active recreation are more your focus, connect with La Trobe Sport Active Recreation on Facebook and Instagram.

You can also meet the La Trobe Sport team during Orientation at the following events:

Monday 23 February

• Welcome Monday (Agora, Melbourne Campus) | 10.15am–12.30pm
• Bendigo Welcome Event & Inter Meet & Greet (Bendigo Campus) | 11.00am–2.00pm and 2.00pm–3.00pm
• SAHHS Course Meet & Greet (Western Lecture Theatre, Melbourne Campus) | 11.00am–12.30pm

Tuesday 24 February

• Welcome Tuesday (Agora, Melbourne Campus) | 11.00am–2.00pm

Wednesday 25 February

• Melbourne Campus Orientation – Welcome Festival (La Trobe Sports Park Stadium) | 11.00am–2.00pm

Friday 27 February

• Wet & Wild Friday (Indoor Sports Centre, Melbourne Campus) | 10.00am–3.00pm

The post Your 2026 Guide to Sport at La Trobe appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

When the space isn’t buzzing with events, the doors will be open for casual hangouts Monday–Thursday, 11am–2pm. Whether you’re looking to relax, study, connect with friends or simply take a break between classes, the Club House is your go‑to spot at our Melbourne (Bundoora) campus.

What is the Club House?

The Club House is a flexible, welcoming event and social space located in the Agora at our Melbourne (Bundoora) campus where all students can connect, engage and unwind through sport, culture, health and creativity.

The Club House is proudly backed by Medibank, whose support helps us bring meaningful health and wellbeing initiatives to life for our student community. Thanks to them, we’ve created a space that puts your wellbeing front and centre.

What’s on at the Club House

What will I find at the Club House?

• Comfortable spots to hang out: Relax in cosy seating areas perfect for studying, socialising or taking a break.
• Event and meeting spaces: Book rooms for club meetings, events and group activities.
• Wellbeing services: Access a range of free services including health checks, yoga sessions and information stalls.
• Fun activities: From table tennis and pool to arcade games and basketball hoops, there’s always something happening.
• Technology and AV equipment: Want to host a movie night, watch a sports match or run a club presentation? That’s easy thanks to our state-of-the-art screen.
• A safe space for everyone: The Club House is inclusive, welcoming and supportive – whether you’re coming with friends or hoping to meet new ones.

How to make the most of the Club House

Different activities will be hosted at the Club House throughout the year, so make sure you keep an eye on the Student Events Calendar and our MyLaTrobe Instagram to see what’s on.

As well as being open at particular times during the week for anyone to pop by, you can request to book the space for anything from club meetings to events via the online form.

Pop by for a quick health check

Want to gain valuable insights into your health in just 5 minutes? The Medibank SiSU Health Station is available whenever the doors are open. This self-service machine is a quick, easy and confidential way to understand your risk factors for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

Prioritise your wellbeing 24/7 with Medibank

As well as supporting the Club House, Medibank offers La Trobe students discounts across their insurance range, including pet, life and travel insurance. It’s just another way you can put your wellbeing first.

The post Welcome back to the Club House: your go-to spot at Bundoora appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

2025 marked the exciting launch of La Trobe’s Student Experience Grants, a program designed to empower students to turn their ideas into reality and create meaningful change. The first year was nothing short of inspiring, with student-led projects transforming spaces, building community and tackling real challenges faced by La Trobe students.

Take a look at four standout projects…

Cook It Up – Building confidence in the kitchen

For many students living on campus or out-of-home for the first time, cooking can feel intimidating. Enter Cook It Up, led by Monty, Shubhi and Niharika, which delivered two fully booked, chef-led (thank you Chef David Prior!) workshops teaching students how to prepare dishes like Hainanese Chicken Rice and handmade pasta. Beyond the delicious meals, the project fostered connection and confidence.

Participant quotes:

“I’ve never cooked a full dish before. This workshop made me feel so confident.” – Vibhi

“It felt like a family meal, I met people I wouldn’t normally talk to.” – Belle

“The chef made everything feel simple. I actually want to cook now.” – Ira

The legacy continues with a digital toolkit of recipes and videos, ensuring all students can benefit from this initiative.

LinkUp in Cyber – Fast Chats, Real Connections

The Women in Cybersecurity (WiCyS) Student Chapter leadership team, led by Mary George, created LinkUp in Cyber – a speed networking event connecting students with 33 industry professionals. With both on-campus and online formats, the project gave students rare access to career insights and mentorship.

Participant quotes:

“It was inspiring to hear how others got started in cybersecurity—it made me feel like I’m on the right path.”

“It was reassuring to hear that even experienced professionals face imposter syndrome.”

“One thing I took away is that there’s no single path to success in cybersecurity. You just have to start somewhere.”

The event drew 68 students and sparked ongoing engagement through LinkedIn and raising the profile WiCyS.

LMS 101 – Making learning systems less scary

Navigating a Learning Management System (LMS) can be overwhelming for new students. Min, Quinn, Jacy, Caroline, Meganne and Ishan, tackled this head-on with LMS 101, creating short, friendly videos featuring ‘Eddie’, a relatable student guide. Check it out here!

Student feedback:

“The content felt clear and less scary.”

The project aims to reduce confusion and anxiety in the crucial first weeks of semester. While early reach is promising (~600 views), the real impact will shine in 2026 when the content is embedded into enrolment and orientation webpages and systems.

Queer Lounge Revamp – A space for belonging

The Queer Lounge at Melbourne Campus had fallen into disrepair but thanks to Mark, Annalise and the La Trobe Queer Club, it’s now a vibrant, welcoming hub for LGBTQIA+ students. Through working bees, decor upgrades and a joyful reopening event, the lounge has become a home for weekly meet-ups and sparked ideas for expanding queer community support to other campuses, with the establishment of the Bendigo Queer Club.

Student quotes:

“There was definitely a major improvement in the vibes of meet-ups… way more relaxed in the twinkling fairy lights rather than harsh fluorescents.”

“After the refurbishment, the lounge became so much cozier, warmer, and much more welcoming. 10/10, would visit for a short break or a hang-out.”

Why it matters

Across these projects, the numbers tell a powerful story:

• Cook It Up engaged 30 students in person and will leave a lasting digital impact legacy.
• LinkUp in Cyber connected 68 students with 33 industry professionals.
• LMS 101 is set to reach thousands of new students in 2026.
• Queer Lounge Revamp tripled attendance at weekly meet-ups.

But the real impact goes beyond metrics – it’s about confidence, connection and community. These projects show what happens when students lead with creativity, purpose and support.

Each project is a demonstration of the power of partnership, with the university partnering with students on their ideas. Grant recipients were supported with project coordination by the Student Voice and Partnerships team and some projects – like Cook It Up (Dr Biju Philip, La Trobe Business School) and LinkUp in Cyber (Associate Professor Leanne Ngo, School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematics) – were supported by passionate staff.

The success of this pilot year proves that when students are given the tools, trust and support to innovate, they create lasting change.

Interested? Apply for a 2026 grant!

Applications for 2026 Student Experience Grants are open now – so if you have an idea that could make the student experience better, now’s your chance to make it happen.

The post Student Experience Grants: A year of student-led innovation and impact appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

Who can join?

All current La Trobe students are welcome – whether you identify as LGBTIQA+ or an ally. If you’re keen to march with us, register by Wednesday 28 January using our form and we’ll send you more details.

Event details

Date: Sunday 1 February 2026

Time: 10:30am–1:30pm, with staggered march times (note: marchers need to arrive earlier; details to come)

Location: Fitzroy Street, St Kilda

Registrations close: Wednesday 28 January 2026

What to expect

Midsumma Pride March is one of the biggest events in the Midsumma Festival calendar, inviting LGBTIQA+ people and allies to show their support for queer communities.

More than 10,000 marchers strut down Fitzroy Street in St Kilda, cheered on by more than 45,000 people lining paths and balconies to cheer them on.

About Midsumma

Midsumma is Australia’s premier queer arts and cultural organisation, bringing together a diverse mix of LGBTIQA+ artists, performers, communities and audiences.

Midsumma’s primary event, Midsumma Festival, will run from Sunday 18 January to Sunday 8 February 2026, with a vibrant program of queer events involving local, interstate and international artists.

The post March with La Trobe at Midsumma Pride appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

When I first arrived at La Trobe, I didn’t set out to get involved, I simply said ‘yes’ to little steps. Those small decisions gradually led to meaningful connections, mentorship, and a sense of belonging. If you’d like to feel more connected, here are six purposeful ways to begin. 

1. Volunteer with La Trobe Leaders 

Become a friendly face for new students while honing your leadership and communication skills. The program is flexible and runs throughout the year, from Orientation Week to on-campus events. 
 

2. Contribute to the La Trobe Food Relief Program (Food Bank) 

Support fellow students experiencing food insecurity by sorting donations, preparing hampers, or welcoming visitors. It’s a deeply rewarding way to contribute. 
 

3. Join the Students as Partners Network 

This initiative empowers you to work alongside staff in the co-design of services, projects, and policies that shape student life. It’s a collaborative platform where your voice genuinely matters. 
 

4. Represent Your School through Student Representation or Advisory Groups 

Contribute your perspective on academic and cultural decisions that affect your peers. You’ll gain experience and recognition through the Career Ready Advantage program. 
 

5. Engage with Clubs and Societies or start your own 

Whether you’re drawn to cultural, academic, or hobby-based groups or have a brand-new idea, La Trobe supports you. Joining or founding a club is one of the most vibrant ways to connect and lead. 
 

6. Head to the Career Hub and join the Employability Team’s events 

The Career Hub is your gateway to a wealth of career-development opportunities, career events, employability webinars, workshops, and one-on-one consultations. The Employability Team hosts a dynamic calendar of programming, including Career Ready Essentials webinars, mock interviews, industry panels, and expos. All designed to build your confidence and readiness for the job market. 

Small steps, lasting impact 

You don’t have to dive in headfirst. Select one avenue, make a modest commitment, and observe where it leads. Many students find that a single step opens doors to genuine friendships, professional growth, and a stronger connection to campus life. 

The post Find your place at La Trobe: six meaningful ways to get involved appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

A brief timeline of the origins of individualism and products

• 1950s – self care becomes a way of taking care of your health at home without medical intervention.
• 1960s – the term self care is used by political activists and feminist groups, as a political act of caring for yourself.
• 1980s – the rise of the wellness industry leading to demonising ‘ageing’ and all its signs, leading to a greater frenzy for always taking care of yourself.
• 2010 and beyond – ‘Health’ becomes conflated with thinness, whiteness and youth in western countries. The mirror becomes our ultimate test.

Targetting young people

Where earlier the beauty and health industry used to largely focus on adult women, young people are now being targeted. With the rise of the influencer, the internet is being used to capture the attention (and money) of the increasingly disillusioned youth population. From make-up hauls and protein shakes, the codes of wellbeing have shifted.

The impact of Covid-19

As the pandemic hit, and isolation was thrust upon the world, self care was sold as a way to feel better about everything happening around us – and if we didn’t feel better, maybe it was just because we weren’t self caring hard enough – we didn’t have the right skin cleanser or kitchen gadget that would make life easier, and that was our own fault.

What is it really costing us?

Data from the 2023 Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia survey show that levels of social isolation in people aged 15-34 have still not returned to pre-pandemic levels, putting people at risk of experiencing loneliness, which can negatively impact their health (no matter how long their skin care routine is!)

Follow these simple methods to bring back social care

• Attend the Social Networking Event for Introverted and Awkward People on the Bundoora campus Tuesday 12 August.
• Join a club or society at La Trobe. Find out how you can do that here.
• Connect in public spaces like libraries. Find out about some events which are on here.
• Clean up your consumption – spend a month writing down everything you buy, and reflect – have you found use for all of those things? Read more about it here.
• Remember, humans thrive in community but equally, you can’t be your best without considering your social wellbeing as well as your alone time.
• Can’t quite manage people? Start with a trip to the zoo or spending time with a pet.

If you’re finding yourself feeling isolated or lonely, you may want to talk to a member of the Wellbeing Services team. You can find more information at www.latrobe.edu.au/wellbeing

The post Feeling lonely and isolated? Add some social care back into your life appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

“It’s great to be in the community, supporting the community and making National Blood Donor Week special for local donors!” said LaTUCs President, Tessa.

After their performance, many choir members stayed to donate blood and plasma themselves. Their contribution was especially powerful in light of upcoming changes to blood donation eligibility for LGBTQIA+ individuals, which will make donation more inclusive for all Australians.

La Trobe’s Lifeblood Team proudly holds the donation teams top spot at the Bundoora Donor Centre, just ahead of Victoria Police and the Army team.

See highlights from the day below:

The post La Trobe University Choir strike a chord for Blood Donor Week appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

All your student events are now listed in the one place so you don’t have to shop around to make the most of your social life on campus. Just click on ‘Student Events’ at the top of any MyLaTrobe hub page, and access a world of exciting activities!

Using the Student Events calendar

• Click on your campus to get started
• Events are displayed by month. You can view events in list or calendar format, simply click ‘List’ or ‘Month’ to change views
• Click the event to learn more and add the event to your calendar!
• Looking for a specific event? Use the event search to find it quickly
• Don’t forget to subscribe to our calendar so you don’t miss out on any exciting events!

For more information about events, contact the events organiser listed on the event. We’ll continue to improve our calendar and update our events throughout the Semester.

What’s not to love? Start planning your social calendar today!

The post Get social with the Student Events calendar appeared first on MyLaTrobe.

The Forgotten Syllabus

We always forget that University is not just lectures, tutorials and exams. What if we told you there is another syllabus – one that is not in your course handbook?

It is the syllabus of campus events and it is full of lessons you will not find anywhere else.

Lesson 1: Finding Your Tribe

Imagine the University as a big, undiscovered city and your lectures and workshops are the main busy streets. But campus events? They are the hidden alleyways where the real fun happens. Attending a campus market day or a twilight tour is like discovering beautiful street art – it can lead you to people who speak your language, share your interests and could become your lifelong friends.

Lesson 2: Skills That Do Not Come with a Grade

Some of the most important life skills do not come from your WAM. Public speaking, leadership, teamwork – these are things you learn from experience. Campus events are your playground. You might not get a grade, but you will gain confidence, experience and a few stories to tell in your next job interview.

Lesson 3: Discovering Your Side Quests

In every adventure, there are side quests with unexpected surprises that lead to amazing things. Potentially, you attend a design your music cover workshop or a community canvas: paint and connect workshop just out of curiosity and realize you have a creative side. Campus events are full of these side quests, waiting for you to explore.

Lesson 4: The Art of Recharge

University can be exhausting. But campus events? They are the cure. They are the save points in a video game, where you can take a breather, power-up and get ready for the next level. Whether it is free coffee Mondays, or a forest therapy walk, these moments are essential for keeping your life balanced.

So, tell us what is on your hidden curriculum?

Visit the Student Event Calendar to make your university experience unforgettable.

The post The Hidden Curriculum: What Campus Events Can Teach You appeared first on MyLaTrobe.