2018 HAVE YOUR SAY - RUSU, RMIT
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HAVE YOUR SAY ANNUAL ELECTIONS 2018
Polling Booth Times and
Locations
Polling booths will be located at the following
dates, locations and times:
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
3 Sept 4 Sept 5 Sept 6 Sept 7 Sept
CITY
10.30am– 9.30am– 10.30am–
Innovative Design 3.00pm 3.00pm 9.30am– 3.00pm 9.30am–
Showcase; 12.4.108 4.00pm– 4.00pm– 5.00pm 4.00pm– 2.00pm
7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm
10.30am–
Swanston Academic 3.00pm 9.30am– 4.00pm–
Building; 80.3.217 4.00pm– 2.00pm 7.30pm
7.30pm
Emily McPherson 4.00pm–
Building; 13.2.24 7.30pm
11:30am–
2.30pm
Alumni Courtyard
(During RUSU
Chill N Grill)
CARLTON
Building 57 Cafeteria; 11.00am– 9.30am–
57.4.202 2.00pm 3.00pm
BRUNSWICK
Building 514 Foyer; 11.00am– 11.00am–
514.1.201 2.00pm 2.00pm
BUNDOORA WEST
Building 210 Entry; 11.00am– 9.30am–
210.2.201 2.00pm 11.00am
BUNDOORA EAST
Building 254 Lounge; 11.00am– 12.00pm–
254.1.203 2.00pm 3.00pm
2 RMIT UNIVERSITY STUDENT UNION ANNUAL ELECTIONS 2018Annual
Elections
2018
The RMIT University Student Union About the Elections: Voting at
(RUSU) provides all RMIT students these elections will be by the
with events, representation and optional preferential and optional
support. RUSU is the only 100% proportional representation
independent body at RMIT and is methods. Optional proportional
governed by 25 elected student representation will be the method
representatives that comprise the of counting for those positions
Student Union Council – RUSU is where more than one candidate is
run FOR students BY students. We to be elected. If you want to vote,
are here to ensure every student’s you don’t have to vote for every
university experience extends position – just the ones’ you’re
beyond lectures and assignments. interested in. You also don’t need to
Every week RUSU’s purple colours vote for every candidate. For each
are out and about with free food position you want to vote on, give a
and fun. RUSU has over 80 clubs “1” to the candidate you prefer, a “2”
and societies that students can join to your second choice if you have
– clubs may be political, spiritual, one and keep going as far as you
academic, cultural and social. like. General Representatives and
While RUSU is the heart of student NUS delegates are proportionally
life, RUSU is also here for students elected (like the Senate), while
when they need help - we have all other positions have a single
an extensive student advocacy winner.
service, information counters, offer
a welfare drop-in centre and keep The Returning Officer is John
safe spaces on campuses. Milburn–Clark.
RUSU.RMIT.EDU.AU RUSUPAGE RMITSU RMITSU RUSUONLINE 3Policies
Left Voice Connect
Left Voice is a team of independent left wing activists Connect is a diverse team of passionate students,
dedicated to fighting for student’s rights and social ready to deliver an action-packed, quality year of
justice issues all year round! support and services to the RMIT community.
Student unions should be on the front lines of activism This year, we’ve put together a team of new and old,
leading progressive campaigns, their project should fresh and experienced students. Many of our team have
be one of opposing racism and injustice, fighting for been program representatives, RUSU volunteers, or
environmental justice and fighting to advance students’ leaders in clubs and societies. These students are now
rights. ready to take it to the next level and be your voice at
RUSU.
Education continues to be seen as a source of profits
by Labor and Liberal governments, and continues Connect delivers results. Connect candidates
to be attacked, the most recent example of this was have fought and achieved significant changes to
the lowering of the HECS repayment threshold. This academic policy. Connect has worked tirelessly to
trend will continue unless our unions become fighting improve mental health support on campus. Connect
bodies. We need student unions that will fight these implemented sanitary vending machines and portable
education cuts and will campaign for free education for charging stations.
every students, both domestic and international.
Connect pioneered Bystander Training for club
For years our candidates have organised crucial executives to improve campus culture around sexual
campaigns to further students rights. We led campaigns assault. Connect delivered RUSH Week for its second
against the Liberal government’s attempts to privatise year, with over 200 students competing. Connect
education, we helped organise the YES campaign began the Student Life Awards, awarding $10,000
on campus last year, and recently we organised an for students’ extra-curricular achievements. Connect
anti racist campaign in solidarity with the African continues to improve RMIT student life, lobbying for a
community against the racist hysteria the government RUSU ‘After Dark’ bar and activity space.
is pursuing.
Connect has provided more healthy food on campus,
Above all we are committed to fighting for what is best including edible community gardens, and maintained
for students. We know that students have to deal with a Compass Cupboard with food for students in need.
a range of issues beyond what happens on campus. Connect worked to continue the Compass Drop-In
RUSU should organise campaigns against racism, Centre, and organised weekly BBQs, bigger and better
sexism, and homophobia. RUSU should campaign for than ever.
environmental justice and divestment!
In 2019, Connect is ready to do it again. With a fantastic
For an activist student union, Vote Left Voice! team lined up, full of ideas and passionate about
improving university life, you can’t go wrong with
Connect.
Connect offers the accountable, active representation
that the students of RMIT deserve.
4 RMIT UNIVERSITY STUDENT UNION ANNUAL ELECTIONS 2018Belong Belong thrives on inclusiveness and diversity. We are a group of like-minded students, who want to improve our student union. We have substantial experience on campus from being RUSU office bearers, running clubs and societies and being leaders of the amazing communities that we have on campus. Belong is running as a new team this year. We believe that RUSU can improve substantially and Belong can deliver that improvement. Our priority is to support you. We want to ensure; all students feel like they belong in our campuses. All students should have an inclusive space that fosters understanding and appreciation of cultural differences that can contribute to everyone’s wellbeing. Belong believes RUSU is running great social enterprises like Realfoods. Belong will like to increase and improve activities alike, which will offer all the students the opportunity to increase skills and employability. There are opportunities for students to get involve with industry, get mentoring, support and experience. Belong wants to ensure, students will have access to such opportunities and leave university with the skills we need for the jobs we want. Belong will like to address concerns on environmental issues within our community. We need to work together to achieve change. Belong understands RMIT’s diverse community. We acknowledged home students have different issues to international students. We aim to promote cultural exchange and cultural intelligence with all the students. We will run campaigns on important issues, such as fairer academic policies and more student support. Let’s collaborate to achieve these goals. RUSU.RMIT.EDU.AU RUSUPAGE RMITSU RMITSU RUSUONLINE 5
Statements
co-founder of a student association XIA, Lily (Connect)
General Secretary and I have financial and managerial
experience in well know companies. Education is the core
reason you are at
SHARMA, Aditya (Connect) I will like to ensure that, in the role university, so it’s really
of General Secretary, I will deliver important you have a
I believe a strong
transparent and clear information to all strong representative
student union needs
our members. We stand by Belong and that will fight and
proper financial
how can you belong if you do not know advocate for the quality
management. Student
what is happening. It is our way to make and accessibility of your education.
money should be
you part of our team and our decisions,
handled responsibly, Having been Education Officer this
we want you to have a voice with us.
spent efficiently, and past year, I built on the department’s
reported transparently. I will deliver an Belong wants to create opportunities existing initiatives to expand the SSCC
accountable and efficient RUSU in 2019. to all council members to express Summits for student leader skills
their views and contribute with their development, and organised Student
It’s not all about money though. The
experiences. Talks, a series highlighting RMIT student
role of General Secretary is responsible
achievements. We have worked with
for convening meetings, developing We will also like to collaborate with the university’s Equitable Learning
processes, and ensuring the smooth RUSU staff, to improve satisfaction, Services, Academic Registrars Group,
execution of RUSU’s day to day retention and student outcomes. The the heads of each College and the
operations. best way to achieve our goals is by Education Portfolio to make a suite
working together proactively and of improvements. We also advocated
If elected, I will work hard to ensure
efficiently. for the change to the Canvas learning
your student union is operating as
efficiently and effectively as possible, If elected, Belong will continue working management system implemented in
so that you can continue to enjoy great towards students’ welfare, student life Semester One.
programs like the free weekly BBQs, balance, create and take advantage of It is in this tradition of advocacy that I
RUSU parties and well-funded Clubs & opportunities provided by RMIT and will continue in 2019. Students deserve
Societies. industry members to all RMIT students. a union that knows how to affect
I worked hard for students this year in Vote [1] BELONG change at RMIT, so that your experience
the Welfare Department, continuing at university is a fairer and more
our Compass Marketplace initiative enjoyable one. I will continue my work
to educate students about cheap and by holding Student Talks semesterly,
healthy food, and working with RMIT initiating peer-to-peer language
on the Mental Wellbeing Advisory
Committee and Equitable Learning
Education Officer exchange sessions, and Sit and Write
RUSU Study Sessions.
Services. I will continue working hard KUMAR, Ameet (Belong) I have the experience and zeal to be
as your General Secretary to deliver an
an effective advocate for you in 2019.
active and accountable RUSU in 2019. Education level in
I know how it’s done, and I’m ready to
RMIT University is
VOTE 1 CONNECT! do it.
highly recognized
and BELONG would VOTE 1 CONNECT!
HERNANDEZ SALAZAR, Sandra ensure quality in all the
(Belong) programs is maintained.
As an Education officer,
I am prepare to provide I would ensure students receive work
an efficient, effective
and ethical financial
integrated courses, support with English
language and assignment writing.
Welfare Officer
strategy. I believe that a We aim to ensure interactive course
well-planned financial ESMAIL, Haroon (Belong)
delivery, having regular face-to face
process can achieve sessions and addressing language Happiness and well-
RUSU’s objectives and issue witnessed by International being are Belong’s one
ensure transparency in reporting. students. The team looks forward to of the most important
I have the ability for critical appraisal, promote collective study sessions precedence. When
I have extensive strategic planning and collaborate with Victoria wide students start a new
experience and I am very resourceful Universities for improved educational chapter into their
when it comes to bring funds into the experience. university studies,
organization. These will ensure RUSU they face a lot of challenges and
Vote [1] BELONG difficulties along the way. This can be
will be able to extend its activities which
will benefit all students. avoided by providing different services
to the students. I will ensure that by
Since I began my studies at RMIT, being elected as the welfare officer I
I have been actively involved in will provide different workshops for
student’s welfare. I have been a student students who need help with different
representative for 2 years, I am a problems and, provide adequate
6 RMIT UNIVERSITY STUDENT UNION ANNUAL ELECTIONS 2018amounts of counseling. We will ensure the university to advocate for more
that there is a welfare rep present to
assist the students whenever required.
accessible counselling and online
mental health support. I also want to
Postgraduate Officer
continue to bring you great activities SUNKARA, Sai Arun Kiran Karthik
There would be increased serves of free and workshops, and continue to make
and healthy breakfast for the students in (Belong)
RMIT the gold standard for mental
every campus. More English language health in Australian universities. RMIT is a global
workshops would be held to help the university with its
students to develop and improve their I look forward to taking care of your students coming from
English skills. Belong would ensure that welfare in 2019, but in order to do that I different corners of
yoga classes and meditation sessions need you to... VOTE 1 CONNECT! the world. There are
would be held during SWOT week to approximately 10,000
keep the students calm. students who are doing
All I want as a welfare officer is to be their postgraduate studies at RMIT
able to make sure that everyone gets
the best treatment they deserve and International Officer University. We would be supporting
each & every one of them in
that they know there are people like us the following during their period of
out there who are willing to face any LOOMBA, Suraj (Belong) studies at the university like Help them
struggles just to see smiles around the in achieving their academic pursuits,
The diversity in the
campus. Belong will look forward to be Support for their student rights as
university has steadily
the voice for all your needs. Postgrad Students, Run various activities
increased over the
such as workshops, seminars, social
Vote [1] BELONG years and international
events and industry expert talks which
students have become
would help the Postgrad Students,
an integral part of RMIT.
ARMITAGE, Jarred (Connect) Making sure that all the Postgrad
It is hence imperative
Students are well represented, heard
that students from all the countries feel
The welfare and and encouraging them to get involved
included and engaged in the university.
wellbeing of RMIT in the RMIT community and finally
As your International Officer, I will try
students is one of organize various social events for
my best to generate this inclusion and
RUSU’s top priorities postgraduate students to get to know
involvement for all students. More
and an enormous part one another and have fun.
cultural events for international students
of our job at the union.
to promote their own cultures and learn Vote [1] BELONG
This year, we have about different cultures from other
delivered even more free breakfasts so students. We will work on organization
that students can enjoy free, healthy of collaborative events for students
food on every campus before they go from different nations to practically
to class. We have delivered free English
Language Workshops for students to
work and interact with individuals from
diverse backgrounds.
Women’s Officer
improve their language and engage CO, Ma Beatrice (Connect)
Additionally, Belong would also like to
with campus life. We have advocated
celebrate an International Week once In its past year,
for the SafeZone app to keep you safe
a semester where international events CONNECT has
on campus. We’ve also maintained the
from different nations will be held to worked very closely
Compass Cupboard, providing free food
make all the international students through the Women’s
for students who need it the most, and
feel like home. I sincerely believe that Department on the
introduced the Compass Marketplace to
international student inclusion will give Changing the Course
educate students about healthy food on
every RMITian a holistic growth and campaign, having our
a student budget.
developmental experience. RUSU President featured as a face of
CONNECT has expanded Compass the campaign. We consulted with the
Vote [1] BELONG
mental health services to the Brunswick Centre for Innovative Justice on a new
and Bundoora campuses, and ensured restorative justice process for survivors
mental health services and self-care of sexual assault, and encouraged
information is presented during the first all RUSU Clubs Executives to partake
week of courses. We have collaborated in Bystander Training to improve
with the University on their major the culture around sexual assault on
mental health project and video series, campus.
and co-facilitated R U OK Day with
the RMIT Wellbeing Team. We’ve also The Women’s Department worked
introduced Chill Out Zones and Plush with the RUSU President and RMIT to
Petting Zoos to support student mental issue a joint RUSU and RMIT statement
wellbeing during SWOTVAC and exams. on the anniversary of the Australian
Human Rights Commission’s report on
Looking after your health is essential for Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment
your success at university. As Welfare at Australian Universities. This is an
Officer, I will work collaboratively with issue we are regularly working with the
RUSU.RMIT.EDU.AU RUSUPAGE RMITSU RMITSU RUSUONLINE 7Statements
University to improve upon, to ensure know how important it is to oppose
that RMIT is a safe place to study and
work.
Queer Officer oppression in all its forms.
We need activist queer officers and an
Going into 2019, I hope to host a large WARD, Roz & activist student union to stand up for
Women In Higher Education Forum, ACREMAN, Natalie (Left Voice) LGBTI rights and fight for students.
bring back the fortnightly Ladies Night WARD, Roz
to help women network and support
each other in their studies, and work With the far right SEE KEE, Adam &
further with RMIT to respond to the gaining in confidence FROST, Caitlin (Connect)
results of the AHRC Survey. around the world and The Queer Department
mainstream politics in is one of the most active
I am really passionate about women’s Australia embracing
representation and I have so many new RUSU departments,
racist, homophobic representing, advocating
and exciting ideas that I can’t wait to and transphobic ideas,
bring to the department, but in order to and celebrating queer-
there is no better time for progressives identifying students.
do that I need you to… on the left to be active. The RMIT queer We ensure that queer-
VOTE 1 CONNECT! department needs to be revitalised identifying students
as a centre for activism that is driven on campus feel safe
by students for students, and for the and included in
DEVA, Srishti (Belong) world around us. Queer officers should university life. In 2019,
The women’s address all forms of homophobia and we will ensure that this
department is one transphobia that exist on our campuses continues to be the
of the most active as well as leading campaigns for social case.
departments of RUSU. justice in our communities.
We continue to run Queer Rooms at
I will be representing, As co-founder of Safe Schools Coalition the city, Brunswick and Bundoora,
advocating and in Australia and a long time LGBTI+ providing a place to relax, study, or hang
celebrating women activist I understand the challenges out for queer students. We have also
identifying students. I will ensure that of standing up to the bigots and moved the city Queer Lounge to a safer
women identifying students on campus conservatives who don’t want to see space on campus, responding to the
feel safe and included in University queer young people feel included in needs of queer students on campus.
life. I will make sure that all women education. With this role I want to
on campus are well represented. I continue that struggle to get rid of all This year, we have worked hard to raise
will continue to run women’s room forms of inequality and discrimination awareness about the discrimination
in all campuses providing a place to and the fight for a better world. faced by queer-identifying students.
hang out, relax in a safe space for all The Queer Department participated
women, this year I will make sure to ACREMAN, Natalie in the International Day Against
make the room more accessible and The queer department Homophobia and Transphobia,
fun to hang around. I will work hard should enable queer providing free food and activities as
to raise awareness and run campaigns students to stand well as a platform for queer-identifying
on celebrating women of Color on up and fight for students to speak out about the issues
campus. I will work with the University equal rights. As an they face on campus.
to ensure extra resources are provided experienced left wing
for the lounges and to ensure RMIT is Following the outpour of support for the
activist, I can do that. queer community in response to the
a safe place. I am extremely passionate
about women’s representation I have so Students should be able to be involved marriage equality plebiscite, we have
many exciting event ideas which I can’t in campaigns against transphobia and worked hard to maintain momentum
wait to run. As a candidate from belong homophobia, and for better conditions in our own queer community at RMIT.
and a woman of color I ensure that all for queer students on campus. Last year We hope to ensure that queer issues are
the women feel welcome. I organised the ‘RMIT Students Say YES’ still at the forefront of people’s minds,
campaign group and worked alongside and that we work to make RMIT an
Vote [1] BELONG activists within the National Union of increasingly safe space for all students.
Students LGBTI department in the fight We want to work even harder in
for marriage equality. Together we built 2019. We will ensure the continuation
the biggest movement for LGBTI rights and expansion of services for queer
in Australia’s history - and we won!. students on campus, and continue to
Equal rights have never been handed to celebrate all students regardless of how
us, they have always been fought for. they identify.
It’s important for queer officers to be VOTE 1 CONNECT!
involved in other progressive social
justice campaigns including student
rights, welfare, refugee rights and anti-
racist campaigns. Not just because
these issues disproportionately affect
LGBTI people, but also because we
8 RMIT UNIVERSITY STUDENT UNION ANNUAL ELECTIONS 2018Representative I have worked very expanded to offer after-hours catering.
Indigenous Officer closely with the Activities Officer to
help run great events both on and off-
We have opened new edible gardens
at the City’s Alumni Courtyard and at
campus. Next year I want to engage Bundoora West, and we hope to expand
TOBY, Allison (Connect)
RUSU’s new After Dark bar space in these to the Brunswick, Bundoora East
The Indigenous Building 78 to run regular fortnightly and Carlton campuses in 2019.
officer is a role where events on campus, including trivia,
karaoke and comedy. We also hope CONNECT initiated the RUSU Swap
responsibility and
to run even more fun on-campus Shop clothing bins, where students
honour come into play.
day time events across not just the can donate second hand clothes at
It is a role that requires
city but all RMIT campuses! This will RUSU front counters to be redistributed
an experienced and
include a return of the Uni Fest major at clothing swap markets. We’re also
strong hearted person
cross-campus music festival. I want to bringing back the RUSU Sustainability
from the First Nation people of Australia.
engage all parts of the RMIT community Ball for October 2018.
I, Allison Toby, am a proud Indigenous in RUSU activities and make the In 2019, CONNECT will be advocating
woman and I hope to achieve changes department something that appeals to for a fossil free RMIT, as well as bringing
through RUSU for the Aboriginal and students from all walks of life. food waste bins to our events. We will
Torres Strait Islander students that study
If you want an exciting year packed full also be advocating for all food vendors
with RMIT University. In this role, I hope
of volunteer opportunities, incredible on campus to switch to metal straws.
to strength the connection between
RUSU and the Ngarara Willim Centre, parties and a ridiculous amount of fun, I look forward to expanding our past
improve support networks, continue then make sure you… initiatives, and moving the department
to create cultural events and be a voice forward so that RUSU can set an
VOTE 1 CONNECT!
for the Indigenous students. As the example for the university when it
Indigenous Officer, I hope to spark comes to sustainable operations. But in
the courage and honour in my fellow DARGAN, Jessica (Belong) order to do that I need you to...
Indigenous students and pass on my
knowledge and wisdom - even to future As a representative, I VOTE 1 CONNECT!
Indigenous Officers. would plan for activities
to help students
VOTE 1 CONNECT! who are introvert to TRIPATHY, Anand (Belong)
establish network RMIT aims to
within university and build sustainable
socializing with the infrastructure and
Activities Officer
fellow students at this university. I would provide healthier
make sure we have regular parties and environment to
events to keep students stress free students for which, I as
GAIT, Sheldon (Connect) with positive energy around them. The sustainability officer on
international events would take place an behalf of BELONG will contribute in best
We all know that international week or once in a month possible ways. Creating green spaces
nothing compares to a for the students belonging to different and gardens within the
RUSU party. In 2019, I backgrounds to make them feel like
will work to ensure that home. University precinct whilst supporting
RUSU continues to run and promoting organic Real foods café
fantastic events events Vote [1] BELONG for raw material will be ideal to provide
such as themed club with healthy food for students. It will
nights, pub crawls and booze cruises, to be our responsibility to re-establish
ensure that you get to go out for a night sustainability goals, promote and
educate towards recycling food waste
Sustainability Officer
out with friends at an affordable price.
in the campus. We in collaboration
This year, CONNECT delivered our with Sustainability club will work for
second RUSH Week, a fun week of PINNUCK, Eamonn (Connect) creating zero emission campus, making
games and competitions that provided University an example for similar
the opportunity for over 200 students RMIT is a leading
university of technology construction and giving chance to
to make new friends and get involved students to be an active part of same.
with campus life. We hosted numerous and design, so we
large social events including the should be a leader Vote [1] BELONG
Winter Wonderland, Rooftop Parties, a in sustainable
boat cruise, pop-up pubs and a Nerd management, recycling
Culture Appreciation Week jam-packed and waste minimisation.
with events. And, in a RUSU first, we If elected, I will ensure that RMIT is as
collaborated with both Swinburne and sustainable an institution as it can be.
VU’s Student Union to run a cross- It’s not all about the university though.
university End of Exams party - our In 2017 we re-opened our vegan,
largest yet. organic and fairtrade cafe Realfoods
In my past term as a General in the NAS Precinct and have since
RUSU.RMIT.EDU.AU RUSUPAGE RMITSU RMITSU RUSUONLINE 9Statements
Clubs are important; they provide
Clubs and Societies opportunities to have fun, get together
and gain valuable leadership experience
Vocational Education
Officer to complement your studies. Officer
This year, CONNECT has continued to
KHANNA, Kapil (Belong) ensure that you gain recognition for the KHAN, Raees (Belong)
Any experience of work that you do in a club by getting Vocational Students
student life in the that work recognised on your academic across the three
university is incomplete transcript. We have handed out a record campuses need more
without an opportunity amount of clubs funding, including an study support and it is
to actively engage in additional $10,000 for mid year special imperative to manage
programs outside their events on top of the $30,000 already the TAFE census
regular studies. Clubs distributed. We are proud to now have date outreach. As the
and societies provide 112 active clubs and societies, and have vocational Education Officer, I will
such platforms, where students can over 100 club executives in bystander lobby the University for Consistency in
learn and develop crucial skills needed training to improve campus culture census dates and payment deadlines
for future employability and where around sexual violence. so that students are not left cancelled
they feel they belong to. I believe clubs CONNECT worked hard to integrate while owing money. We will generate
and societies can create a vibrant clubs into RUSH week, a week of specialist advice for students about
environment for all the students competitions and activities. This week access to government funding and its
and Belong will ensure that all the was a great opportunity for clubs limits on enrolment. Belong will also
resources will be at the disposal of all to reach more students and engage work on the proposal that Point Cook
the students. As the clubs and societies existing members. students get a student rights advocate
head, I would be looking to streamline drop in sessions every month.
the process of listening to student’s We have made clubs an essential part
of university life by engaging them in Vote [1] BELONG
grievances and getting their demands
met within a set time frame. We have orientation events and making sure
a vision of bringing all the existing as many students as possible get the JAN, Hafiuzllah (Connect)
clubs and societies on a single platform chance to join a club or society.
and work on cross club collaboration, VE students need a
I will ensure that clubs are easier to strong, experienced
where there’s a constant exchange of engage with, and that they have the
ideas and a healthy cultural and social representative to
funding they need to run events that remind the university
mingling, for preparing students to benefit not just club members, but all
work in a country as culturally diverse that we are an
RMIT students. We aim to create a Club important part of RMIT
as Australia. Belong would ensure Council for RUSU clubs to become even
that club activities are communicated and that our rights
more connected than they are, with matter. I have delivered for you in 2018,
more effectively and would work to regular meetings and club mixers, and
empower students to be co-creators of and I will deliver for you in 2019.
work with the university on a new suite
change, working together to make the of combined RUSU and RMIT clubs I have sat as an elected member
clubs and societies in RMIT, to be the executive trainings and upskillings. of Academic Board and Education
best. I would be the bridge between Innovation and Quality Committee the
students and staff, so they find synergy, I want to see more students involved last two years, making sure VE courses
and develop partnerships that make for in clubs, so that they can be involved were included in surveys and course
a great academic, cultural and social in campus life and make new friends. improvement programs.
experience throughout the coming year. I will work to increase the facilities,
grants and training opportunities I want VE students to have a great time
Vote [1] BELONG available to students to that RUSU on campus, and we have taken some
clubs can continue to provide amazing great steps towards that in 2018. The
HOOGSTRA, Daniel (Connect) opportunities and exciting events to all VE department has run ‘VE Chill’ events
RMIT students. every fortnight, providing free food to
University is about students even when they are attending
more than just study. VOTE 1 CONNECT! classes outside the Higher Education
It’s an experience calendar. We have run more successful
where we make friends, Pop-Up Pub and Move Night events,
develop skills and providing students with free drinks and
create memories that entertainment without having to leave
will stay with us long the Carlton campus.
after graduation. I believe clubs and
societies play a large part in making This year I have worked through boards
university such a great experience, and committees to make sure VE
and I will deliver strong leadership to students are at the heart of university
develop clubs and societies and make conversations. This includes extending
your journey through university one to the SLAMs mentorship program to VE
remember. students, and ensuring VE students
are included in feedback projects and
10 RMIT UNIVERSITY STUDENT UNION ANNUAL ELECTIONS 2018course improvement programs - course training on how to crack that job and
innovation is just as important in
vocational education as it is in higher
effectively get the most out of the
university experience.
Bundoora
ed.
Belong firmly believe that a student Coordinator
I have also been putting in the hard union can make the difference
yards for VCE students, who are often between simply studying and having AGRA, Caitlin (Connect)
excluded from campus culture. I have an unforgettable experience of growth, Bundoora is a unique
worked to produce RMIT VCE hoodies, development, making lifelong friends campus that requires
to try and develop a sense of belonging and learning. unique representation.
and pride, and advocated for VCE As your Bundoora Co-
students to receive proper graduation Vote [1] BELONG
ordinator, I will work to
ceremonies from their VE programs. provide for the diverse
I want to continue this great work BEAUCHAMP, Mia (Connect) needs of our diverse
and provide more social events for student body.
The Brunswick campus
VE students, with monthly lunches has so much talent This year we have worked hard at
for VCE students and a Trade Union to offer and in 2018 Bundoora, offering regular access to
Week. VE students need to be heard on CONNECT worked student rights advice and assistance,
university boards and committees, and really hard on campus weekly events including the free healthy
I have the experience on the Education to deliver Brunswick breakfasts, and dedicated support for
Innovation and Quality Committee and students more exciting the campus’ student clubs. We have a
Academic Board that will let me be a and diverse events such as a Moonlight Compass staff member at Bundoora
strong voice and advocate for change. Cinema, the opening of the Brunswick to provide mental health support and
It is only with adequate representation Activities Space, and even a Brunswick facilitate activities such as yoga and
that VE students can achieve tangible Pub Crawl! cooking classes at Walert House.
changes in policy that make campus
life easier and less stressful. If improving The CONNECT team has maintained We also ran master classes for
VE representation and creating a strong both a Women’s and a Queer room on postgraduate students, reaching out to
social life on campus sounds good to the campus, breathing new life into a part of the student body that is too
you, then... Brunswick and providing heaps of often neglected at Bundoora.
activities, workshops and a friendlier
VOTE 1 CONNECT! more inclusive environment on We continued to run the Realfoods cafe
campus. in Bundoora West, providing coffee
and healthy food for all students on
One of the most exciting things campus. We also opened new spaces at
CONNECT has continued to deliver for Bundoora, including a games room, and
Brunswick Brunswick this year is maintaining and
improving the Compass mental health
Queer and Women’s lounges.
Coordinator drop-in centre, making sure students at In 2019 I want to continue to improve
campus life by providing increased
Brunswick have access to the essential
services provided in the city. support to student clubs, running
SRIVASTAVA, Anshul (Belong) more free and fun events on campus,
The Brunswick Campus I will work to deliver exciting events including the return of Bundy Games,
is home to the most on and off campus, exhibitions, and and working on improving facilities for
exciting field of study- workshops that not only reward students.
Design and Fashion students but showcase their talent and
hard work. Please support me for the position of
and is located on Bundoora Coordinator so I can work
Sydney Road- the most I will continue RUSU’s free weekly hard for you!
creatively inspiring and lunches on campus and work to involve
multicultural place in Melbourne. more student clubs to improve campus VOTE 1 CONNECT!
As the Coordinator I will refresh campus life in 2019.
life to resonate an atmosphere which I want to build on all the work KHAN, Mohammad Waqar (Belong)
promotes education, motivation, CONNECT has been doing on campus
passion, inclusivity and excitement to As a Belong candidate,
and see continual improvement to the I want to foster a
make it come alive- the way a creative facilities and services at Brunswick, and
space should be. I passionately care relationship between
with your support we can achieve this. the students and
about every student who walks into the All you need to is...
Brunswick campus and want to make university, which
sure they have the time of their lives at VOTE 1 CONNECT! values and responds
university. to the diversity that is
present in this university. We would
Our aim is not just to enliven student also like to provide equal opportunity
life with events but also with relevant to the students to participate in their
industry presence which will motivate course assessments and have a say in
us to do our best and get real time their degree. Promote accountability,
RUSU.RMIT.EDU.AU RUSUPAGE RMITSU RMITSU RUSUONLINE 11Statements
educational and management policies so you can grab a bite to eat and a future employability connections and
and practices to ensure the trust quick drink without being late to class. augment their skills for a brighter future.
between the students and staff. Belong We’ve continued to make the Chill’n’Grill
would like to enhance the student’s accessible to the whole student body, Vote [1] BELONG
learning experience through teaching offering more diverse culturally themed
methods, assessments and review food weeks, using halal food and
provisions. Belong would work to providing vegetarian options and soft
create more learning spaces, around
the campus, where students can
drink.
Brunswick
Representative
study. They can be libraries, student Volunteer numbers have increased in
lounges classrooms and computer labs. our last year, and continuing to provide
More 24/7-computer labs around the more volunteering opportunities and
Bundoora campus. Learning Spaces jobs on campus will be a key focus as DANG, Meher (Belong)
directly impact our ability to learn your City Coordinator. I will continue to
deliver free food on campus, and lobby Belong believes that
instead of busy rooms or busy areas. there should be more
There are more pressing concerns that the University to do more to make our
facilities and classrooms accessible focus on student
should hold a student’s attention, but engagement and
we need to build a space to learn and for everyone. You should enjoy your
experience at RMIT and I will work hard belongingness. We will
socialize. It’s the job of student union to bring a change in the
ensure that students get more spaces to make sure every single student gets
the most out of their time at university. current scenario by
to interact and socialize in these places involving more and more students in
around the campus. I would like to I have worked hard as your City daily activities. Professionally, I want
build community among the campus, Representative this year, and I’ll work to showcase more fashion work at
creating more student lounges can do even harder in 2019. But to do that I the Brunswick and City campus- and
this; game centers and stress- relieve need you to... getting more footfall for those as I
places to relieve students from the believe that all creative students require
stress being built over the semester. VOTE 1 CONNECT!
recognition. We will work for having
Internships at the library so the students Pop- Up markets and Yoga Classes, in
can get jobs in their councils in libraries RATURI, Pawan (Belong) addition to free meals. I want to assist
and further their professional career or students with their needs and difficulties
professional development. More silent City Campus is the as much as I can because I am
study zone around the campus to help biggest campus of passionate about making student life a
students relax and concentrate more on RMIT and as the memorable for everyone. Be it grades,
studies. More food options around the Coordinator it would be academic problems or any other issue
campus rather than one place for food. my role to make it more that any student is facing, we would
Belong would ensure that Bundoora functional and useful. work to solve those issues and work
students studying nursing programs I will ensure RUSU hard to make student representation an
have more help with securing and City Campus is staffed 5 days a week honest voice of the student body.
gaining placements. during semester, as well as services
in the form of student rights outreach Vote [1] BELONG
Vote [1] BELONG will be provided during the important
semester dates. An active grassroots
city campus representative collective CAME, Victoria (Connect)
will be re- established in accordance I want to ensure that
City Coordinator
with RUSU regulations. The advanced Brunswick is centre
infrastructure for the welfare and well- stage on the university’s
being of the students will be proposed agenda. As a campus
FLEMMING, Adam (Connect) and implemented in the city campus we pride ourselves
to enhance the effectiveness and on our creativity and
University should be
productivity of my fellow mates. artistic spirit. I want to
more than just turning
up to class and going I will ensure that Chill N Grill has all the see this spirit nurtured through great
home. A vibrant vibes and inclusiveness for all the local support for exhibitions, showcases
campus life is crucial and international students, revamp and other events which allow us to
in ensuring the best Chill N Grill to include more cultures gain vital practical experience. I will
university experience and conduct events that are diverse also work to make sure that RUSU
possible. I want to make everyone feel in nature. The food and barbeque will increases it’s presence on campus and
at home on campus, and continue to be served based on the preference provides services that help to build
encourage RMIT students to engage in of the students. Volunteers are the the Brunswick Campus Community.
activities and social events. backbone of any event organized by CONNECT has proven we can do this
RUSU and my role will be to take care by bringing the Compass mental health
In 2018 as your City Representative, drop-in centre to Brunswick.
of these legends. The volunteers will
I have already taken steps towards
be mingled with different societies and By voting for me and CONNECT you are
making the City campus a more vibrant
organizations in Melbourne through voting for a candidate and team who
social place. We have further reduced
seminars and meet-ups that will create are committed to creating a vibrant,
queues at the weekly Chill’n’Grill events,
12 RMIT UNIVERSITY STUDENT UNION ANNUAL ELECTIONS 2018artistic and creative community at integrate more international students.
Brunswick. A small group of people can become
a significant community by doing
City Representative
VOTE 1 CONNECT! so. Finally, the industry connection MAKHIJA, Mona (Belong)
should not be ignored, especially for
international students. Belong would With all due respect of
work for equal opportunities and rights this position and a wish
Bundoora East in term of industry opportunities for to step in the footsteps
students from all the courses. of the previous
Representative Vote [1] BELONG
city representative,
BELONG would bring
a cheerful and healthy
JAHANI, Mustafa (Connect) environment within RMIT. Through our
Over the last few years, dedicated efforts and hard work, we
Bundoora West
the RUSU presence would love to organize better ways to
at Bundoora East has help students settle in and have a great
increased markedly. The
running of regular free
Representative time during their stay with our RMIT
Family. We want all students to keep
food events has given their journey most happening within
HOPKINS, Chantelle (Connect) these important educational years,
students a new social
hub on the Bundoora campus. For too long Bundoora make connections with students from
has been left behind, other nationalities and explore self.
In 2019, I will advocate for more forgotten in the outer
services and facilities at Bundoora East, The volunteer programs will give
suburbs. I’m here to students exposure to gain professional
so that more RMIT services are on offer change that!
without having to leave campus. insights and gain their skills in a way to
I want to make life on make them job-ready by the time they
If elected, I will lobby the university to campus the best it finish their course.
invest time and money to support the can be, and I will work to improve the
students of this campus; from running With all the kindness and our beautiful
promotion of RUSU events and services hearted volunteers in BELONG, we
more industry seminars, to improving to students, get more clubs active and
the quality of food and increasing the would make sure we have stress
involved on campus, and continue to reducing sessions on regular basis,
opening hours of the cafeteria and deliver the awesome free weekly events.
library. I will ensure support is provided dance sessions, sports events and
Vote for myself and CONNECT to chilling sessions. We aim to provide
to student clubs on campus, to run ensure you have an active and engaged
events and engage with students After everything I as city representative
Student Union for Bundoora. would always be up to lend my ears on
outside the classrooms and lecture
theatres. VOTE 1 CONNECT! what you expect and desire to match it
with what I can possibly do.
VOTE 1 CONNECT!
Vote [1] BELONG
CAI, Tengyi (Belong)
LOH, Lit Feng (Belong) As the Bundoora West
Representative, I would
Foster a relationship work to have more
between students
and the university will
student engagement. Five (5) General
Representatives
I would like to run
ensure everyone in workshops from
university grows rapidly different streams of
and yet should not programs, to ensure that there is proper SHARMA, Shubham (Belong)
exclude international inclusion of all the students, so that they
student. As a representative for can interact and grow their friendship The major issue
Bundoora East, home for most of the tree. I would like to help the students at RMIT is lack of
engineering courses, it’s crucial to with their queries and problems and communication
make a healthy impact for students. would also advocate for speakers between the concerned
During the study in university, students to come and give motivational talks authorities and
should deserve a better learning space, and talk about the problems faced by students which lead
especially 24/7 computer labs in the them while early in their professional to the widespread
East. Not to mention that each of us careers. Belong would organize more unawareness and transfer of misleading
should have the equal opportunities to networking events for the students to information within students. If selected
participate in assessments and make widen their professional circle and have as a General Representative, I will
sure our course delivers the most, a sense of belongingness. ensure you get the required information
including industry connection. As food by setting up a regular information
is the key to connect everyone and Vote [1] BELONG booth and posters around campus. I
international students play specific believe in accountable and fair student
roles in East campus, therefore, Chill representation. My focus will be on
N Grill could bring more diversity to engaging students by having regular
RUSU.RMIT.EDU.AU RUSUPAGE RMITSU RMITSU RUSUONLINE 13Statements
polls and contests every fortnight on of the Union, represented you on to support for business students.
the social media and try resolving their Academic Board, and before that as
queries. The most important thing Activities Officer. During this time Vote [1] BELONG
is to sign up with an application and I’ve gained a considerable amount of
setting up a chat-bot to address basic experience in the day to day operations CHEN, Liyuan (Connect)
queries of students and if not addressed of the union, supervising RUSU staff
through chat-bot, transferring them to members and running departments As a General Representative I will be
the upper authorities to ease the staff in order to deliver important student uniquely placed to represent RMIT’s
and promote efficient working of the services, campaigns and events. international
system. community on the RMIT University
I care a lot about the functioning of this
Ensuring that you have a good student union, as it is an incredibly important Student Union Council and the broader
experience at RMIT will always be my student resource. I want to bring all committees within RMIT University.
number one priority. A vote for me and the passion and important lessons I’ve International students are a large and
BELONG is a vote for more welcoming learnt and the experience I’ve gained significant part of the RMIT community
and inclusive community at RMIT. Your into 2019, but in order to do that I need and therefore deserve a strong voice
vote is vital. you to… within it. I want to make sure that we
Vote [1] BELONG VOTE 1 CONNECT! are not ignored and issues affecting us
are recognised and addressed. If elected
I will work to make sure that the free
HAWKINS, Lily (Connect) KELSEY, Naomi (Belong) English workshops continue to run
Communication is a Belong believes in to ensure that International students
massive concern at student welfare and are welcomed into university life and
RMIT. Too often we support. As a General taught valuable skills with like-minded
get emails bombarding Representative I will people. I want to assist other elected
us with inappropriate communicate with all student representatives within the
information and the students to ensure student union to build communities
not enough of the that their passions are on campus that welcome international
essentials. If elected as your General reflected throughout RMIT. students and provide opportunities to
Representative I will ensure you get meet new people and socialise. A vote
your information in the format you We believe that as RMIT students, we for me and CONNECT is a vote for a
want. For example, lobbying RMIT for an should all have the supportive networks more welcoming and inclusive RMIT
easy-to-use app. that are required when studying a community.
degree, this can be achieved through
As a RUSU Casual this year, I have had inclusivity and accessibility within VOTE 1 CONNECT!
a fantastic opportunity to engage with RMIT. This includes promoting an (No photo supplied.)
the student body and know that I can understanding towards accessibility to
ensure all students are receiving the students and ensuring that all groups
best representation they can get. In a and clubs are as open and inclusive as TAHIR, Umer (Belong)
communications-related field myself, I possible. I believe this is essential to As your City
believe in fair and accountable student providing a safe and welcoming space Coordinator for the
representation and will work hard for all students. past two years, I have
to make the biggest possible impact delivered a lot to help
for students. My focus will be on We have recognized that there should
be more connections to industry and the students have a
supporting the Student Union Council productive time.
to ensure every aspect of RUSU’s job opportunities available through
operations is as efficient and effective as RMIT. As we are giving our time I have the experience
possible. and money to this university, we necessary to guide Belong in their
should be receiving more contact duties and ensure that the union will
VOTE 1 CONNECT! to professionals and workshops in be transparent and efficient. We will
our preferred industry. By providing ensure that there will be more student
these connections, students will have engagement and inclusion and that all
GVILDYS, Ella (Connect) a heightened sense of security for the students have a good experience
I am incredibly future careers as well as creating new at RMIT. We will work to make RMIT
passionate about relationships. a better place to study and ensure
representation, After dark space run at cost to RUSU’s that all the students have a feeling of
leadership and most members. Better Support from Business belongingness.
importantly RUSU. Central with trained RUSU volunteers Vote [1] BELONG
I believe in a student to assist students with accessing
union that represents information and course and program
students from every walk of life. managers: (street team NAS) extended
I’ve been actively involved in the
Student Union for several years. This
year I have been the General Secretary
14 RMIT UNIVERSITY STUDENT UNION ANNUAL ELECTIONS 2018PARRY, Liam (Left Voice) student life and greater support for justice and to fight against racism,
students. However, there is room for sexism, and privatisation of essential
I’ve been an activist improvement. services. Students do not live in a
at RMIT for a couple
bubble and it is the duty of unions like
of years now. I’ve My diverse background and great
RUSU to engage students in left wing
organised protests understanding of cultural intelligence
struggles to challenge oppression and
against the Liberal’s have made me realize that an inclusive
education funding cuts, space that fosters understanding and inequality in all its forms at RMIT.
and supported and appreciation of cultural differences that
promoted campaigns against racism can contribute to thrive academically KUMAR, Prashanth (Belong)
and sexism, and for environmental and encourage us to get involved in the
rights on campus. This semester I’ve rich campus culture; to belong. With all due regard
been heavily involved in the campaign of this position and
to support the African communities of There are several opportunities for a desire to get in the
Melbourne against racism. If elected, us, the students, to get involve with strides of the past
I will represent left wing students and industry, get mentoring, support and general representative,
promote progressive campaigns at experience. I want to work hard on this. BELONG would bring
RMIT. I want the union to be supportive Vote [1] BELONG a decent and solid
of campaigns for social justice, like condition inside RMIT. Through my
Fossil Free and the Disarm campaigns. most committed endeavors and diligent
JARVIS, Alexander (Connect) work, I would love to arrange better
platforms to approach and encourage
BAIG, Mirza (Belong) University should be
students of RMIT in every aspect to
an enjoyable place for
As general settle in and have an incredible time
everyone. Students
representative I will amid their stay with our RMIT Family.
shouldn’t have to
support all the students In the wake of all that I would do
struggle to get by,
and staff on the campus as a general representative, I would
financially or socially.
and will co-operate preferably be up to listen carefully
For students to achieve
with them whenever to what you anticipate that and will
their best, they need
there is a need to be. coordinate it with what I can do.
to be provided with the best services,
I will ensure that appropriate prayer resources, and support right from day My experience as a volunteer at RUSU
spaces taking into consideration all one. makes me experienced to accept this
religious and spiritual belief systems opportunity and work with energy
are made available to all so that they I believe in fair and transparent student
to make student life all the more
can pray without any interruption. I will representation and will work hard to
energizing for and encourage student
ensure that there is proper engagement make the biggest possible impact for
engagements in University.
and inclusion of students on campus. students. I want to make sure that we
are not ignored and issues affecting us Vote [1] BELONG
Vote [1] BELONG are recognised and addressed. If elected
I will work to make sure that issues such DOVE, Abena (Connect)
as recorded lectures are enforced.
HADI, Sadaf (Belong) As your President for
I want to assist other elected student the past two years, a lot
RMIT offer us many representatives within the student union
opportunities, it is has been delivered.
to ensure that university is an enjoyable
a great place to be. time for students and that they can get Myself and the
I’ve been a student the most out of their education. A vote CONNECT team have
since 2014. I have the for me and CONNECT is a vote for a lobbied the university,
experience, work- more gratifying and enriching university and succeeded, in
ethics, ideas and the experience. making academic policy more student
support of Belong to ensure that our friendly, creating a more mental
time at university will be valuable to our VOTE 1 CONNECT! health-friendly campus, and actively
student experience. participating in the ‘Be The Change’
For some, University is second home. campaign, shaping the discussion
GIDDINGS, Chris (Left Voice)
The need of finding, a space for you, and culture around sexual assault on
that you Belong and you have the voice It is crucial that campus.
to make improvements, should matter student unions take
We’ve implemented countless services
to all of us. on left wing activist
for students, like portable charging
campaigns in order to
I have been a strong advocate of stations, edible community gardens,
protect students’ rights.
student safety on campus for the and the Compass Drop-In Centre.
Today two out of three
past 3 years. All students should Our RUSU After Dark bar space will be
students live below
feel safe, to feel like they belong on opening in September 2018, alongside
the poverty line and there continue
campus. I have been successfully an arcade and games room.
to be constant attacks on education
involved in campaigns for fairer and welfare. Student unions can be
assessment policies, more funding for a platform for standing up for social
RUSU.RMIT.EDU.AU RUSUPAGE RMITSU RMITSU RUSUONLINE 15You can also read
