The University of Melbourne has recently been involved in several significant events and developments:
- Pro-Palestinian Protests and Administrative Changes: In April 2024, students initiated a pro-Palestinian encampment on the South Lawn of the Parkville campus, expressing solidarity with international movements and urging the university to disclose any investments linked to the Israeli government. The protests escalated with the occupation of the Arts West building in May, leading to class cancellations and administrative warnings. The university eventually agreed to disclose its investment ties, resulting in the protesters dismantling their encampments. Amidst these events, Vice-Chancellor Duncan Maskell announced his resignation, and in September 2024, Professor Emma Johnston AO was appointed as his successor, becoming the first woman to hold the position in the university’s history. Wikipedia
- Staff Underpayment Settlement: The university acknowledged underpaying 25,576 employees a total of $72 million over the past decade. It has committed to reimbursing affected staff and has paid a $600,000 fine imposed by the Fair Work Ombudsman. The underpayments were primarily due to reliance on “benchmarks” instead of actual hours worked. The university has pledged to rectify its governance practices to prevent future occurrences. The Australian
- Global Rankings: In the latest Times Higher Education global rankings, the University of Melbourne is the only Australian institution in the top 50, positioned at 39th. However, several other Australian universities have experienced declines in their rankings, raising concerns about the international standing of the nation’s higher education sector. News.com.au
Admission and Hostel Fees
For prospective students, understanding the financial commitments associated with studying at the University of Melbourne is crucial. Below is an overview of the tuition and accommodation fees:
- Tuition Fees: Tuition fees at the University of Melbourne are determined by the specific subjects and courses in which a student enrolls. For international undergraduate students, fees vary depending on the program of study. For instance, the annual tuition fee for a Bachelor of Science is approximately AUD 45,000, while a Bachelor of Arts is around AUD 40,000. It’s important to note that these figures are indicative and subject to change; prospective students should consult the university’s official website for the most current information. Study at Melbourne
- Accommodation Fees: The University of Melbourne offers various accommodation options, each with its own fee structure. For example, University College lists the following annual fees:
- New undergraduate students: AUD 38,894
- Returning students (2nd year): AUD 37,778
- Returning students (3rd year): AUD 36,662
Cost of Living
Beyond tuition and accommodation, students should budget for additional living expenses, including:
- Utilities: Expenses for electricity, gas, and water can vary but should be factored into the overall budget.
- Groceries and Dining: Costs will depend on personal lifestyle and dietary preferences.
- Transportation: Public transport costs should be considered, especially for students living off-campus.
- Miscellaneous Expenses: This includes personal items, entertainment, and other incidental costs.
The university provides a detailed breakdown of estimated living costs to assist students in financial planning.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
The University of Melbourne offers a range of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid options to support students with their tuition and living expenses. Prospective students are encouraged to explore these opportunities and assess their eligibility.
Conclusion
The University of Melbourne continues to be a leading institution in Australia, marked by significant developments in its administration and a commitment to addressing past challenges. Prospective students should carefully consider the financial aspects of their education, including tuition, accommodation, and living expenses, and take advantage of the financial support services offered by the university.
Recent Developments at the University of Melbourne
‘Australia’s worst wage thief’: Top university underpaid staff by $72m