Studying in Sydney is not just about academic excellence and vibrant environment. The University of Sydney provides access to support centers to assist you with your education, learning, medical services, and career counsellors. Student Support Services at the University of Sydney can provide valuable insights on employability and careers, campus and city life, academic challenges, health and well-being, and more.
About Student Support Services
Student Support Services is one of the flagship schemes at the University of Sydney. These services assist students on multiple academic and non-academic topics, including degree planning and academic advice, choices to shape your future, etc.
Understanding all the opportunities available during your stay in Sydney can help shape your future beyond academics. The Student Support Staff at Sydney offers one-on-one support to assist you with study-related decisions to achieve personal and professional growth.
Beyond academics, Student Services also cover personal assistance.
They can help students:
- Connect with fellow students for support
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander support
- LGBTQ+ support
- Financial Support
- Student Accommodation
- Multifaith Chaplaincy
- Modern Slavery
- Student advocacy
Student Accommodation
Student Accommodation in Sydney offers an inclusive, supportive, and authentic environment with students from all over the world. The types of student accommodation in Sydney are:
- University residences: These student properties are known for their quality, affordable, self-catered on campus features.
- Residential colleges: On-campus colleges are fully furnished rooms with three catered meals a day and laundry services.
- Off-campus accommodation: These are independently operated properties, and include student housing options, homestay and privately managed share houses.
Financial Support
Students who meet the eligibility criteria and if sufficient funds are available, may apply for financial support to assist with emergencies or financial difficulties during their studies.
This support is not intended to serve as a regular source of income. Students experiencing ongoing financial hardship are encouraged to seek financial advice from the Financial Rights Legal Centre or MoneySmart.
Financial support can be used for essential living and study expenses, including:
- Textbooks, readers, and journals
- Laptops and IT equipment
- Bond and rent payments
- Phone, electricity, and gas bills
- Medical and dental bills
- Travel and accommodation costs for compulsory placements
- Childcare arrangements during peak academic periods (e.g., exams or research reviews).
Counselling and Mental Health Support
The University of Sydney students can visit counsellors and healthcare professionals for any academic or personal assistance. These specialists provide a wide range of personal, academic, social, and psychological aid to make your life in Sydney better. The Student Counselling Service
Individual Counselling
Individual counselling or therapy with a counsellor offers an opportunity to share your concerns that are impacting or can impact your studies and mental well-being in Sydney. The University of Sydney has short-term therapy sessions, from 1 to 6, with counsellors offering proof-based treatment and resources as per your individual needs.
Individual counselling sessions at Sydney are conducted in parallel with New South Wales Health guidelines. However, these guidelines are subject to change, meaning the University may not always offer one-on-one counselling. Therefore, students can opt for Telehealth appointments via Zoom.
Group Counselling
Engaging in therapeutic work alongside fellow students has been recognized as a valuable and rewarding experience. Participating in group discussions where shared experiences and challenges are addressed fosters a sense of connection, acceptance, and visibility. Utilizing modern psychological frameworks, group members benefit from facilitated therapeutic discussions, alternative perspectives on their challenges, and strategies to enhance resilience.
Group counselling not only supports personal growth but also nurtures a sense of community and belonging throughout the University of Sydney experience. A variety of group counselling options are available, focusing on areas such as academic resilience, wellbeing, and social connection. Students are encouraged to explore current group offerings and express their interest by selecting the “groups/workshops” option on the Student Counselling Service portal.
After Hours Mental Well-being Support Line
Students in Australia can access the support line by calling 1300 474 065 or texting 0488 884 429 outside of office hours (5 pm to 9 am on weekdays, and 24/7 on weekends and public holidays).
This service offers free and confidential wellbeing support, providing guidance to help manage emotional distress, explore effective coping strategies, and identify pathways for long-term solutions.
International Student Helpline
International students can download Sonder, a health and well-being app. All international students are eligible to Sonder’s 24/7 safety and security features. This mobile app features:
- Multilingual support
- In-app 24/7 chat assistance
- Specialized and practical COVID-19 support (for quarantined students), including delivery of essential supplies.
- Daily safety tips.
International students can activate their Sonder’s account by creating a new account using their University of Sydney’s email address from their OSHC policy.
Conclusion
This was all about the Student Support Services at the University of Sydney. Students at the University can leverage their academic and personal journey with these services. From accommodation assistance to student advocacy, these services ensure smoother transition into Sydney’s vibrant environment for every domestic and international student.
