The symposium will bring together student representatives and university leaders to explore how students can actively shape strong, inclusive governance across the sector.
UNSW Sydney is delighted to host the Universities Australia (UA) Student Governance Symposium on Tuesday, 14 October, bringing together student leaders, university staff and sector experts to explore how student voices shape inclusive and effective university governance.
This first-of-its-kind event will be held in-person at Leighton Hall on UNSW Kensington campus and livestreamed nationally, making it easy to join from wherever you are.
Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Attila Brungs, who will open the event, said, "Students are a vital partner at UNSW as we strive for our vision of positive societal impact.
"More than contributors, they’re collaborators in shaping the future of our universities. This symposium is a chance to reflect on how we build cultures of genuine partnership, where a breadth of student voices are not just heard and valued, but a de-facto part of University direction setting at all levels."
What’s the symposium about?
Universities have a unique governance model, distinct from corporate structures, with students playing an active role in shaping decisions. Across the sector, student representation is standard and many institutions, including UNSW, have embraced Students as Partners (SaP) frameworks.
This symposium goes a step further. It will ask: What kind of culture do we create around student partners – and how does that drive successful and effective governance?
Expect thought-provoking discussions on how structure, culture and leadership shape governance and how students as partners in decision-making drive better governance outcomes.
The program includes:
- keynote speakers and panel sessions featuring student representatives
- voices from international students
- opportunities to connect, share insights and build national good practices.
The event will be co-hosted by Luke Sheehy, CEO of UA, and Ashlyn Horton, President of the National Union of Students, reflecting the spirit of partnership at the heart of the symposium.
Speakers and panelists include:
- Professor Kelly Matthews, The University of Queensland
- Professor Kylie Readman, University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
- Sarah Bendall, National Student Ombudsman
- Will Burfoot, President of the ANU Students Association.
Who can attend?
The event is open to:
- Staff: University leaders, academic and professional staff with an interest in governance, student engagement or strategy
- Students: Student representatives on Council, Academic Board, Faculty Boards, Student Representative Council, Postgraduate Council and Arc Board.
Whether you’re deeply involved in governance or just curious about how decisions are made, this is a great opportunity to learn, connect and contribute.
Event details and registration
Date: Tuesday 14 October 2025
Time: 1.30pm – 5.00pm
Location: Leighton Hall, John Niland Scientia Building (G19), UNSW
Format: Hybrid – attend in person or online
Cost: Free registration
Register now to be a part of this important sector conversation.
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