At Jumbunna, every student is more than just a number; you're a valued individual. Our aim is to ensure you thrive with us, leveraging your strengths, overcoming challenges, and discovering your unique path to success.
Jumbunna Institute
We understand that transitioning to university can feel overwhelming, especially if you've travelled far. Despite the bustling campus, we keep you connected, offering various forms of support. Supporting Indigenous students to get to university and succeed in their studies at UTS is the core business of the Jumbunna Institute. From financial guidance to counselling, learning assistance, housing options, and cultural support, we're here to guide you through.
Check out the advantages that Jumbunna can provide:
Elder In Residence: a cultural anchor
Aunty Glendra Stubbs
Aunty Glendra Stubbs, our Elder-in-Residence, brings 40 years of wisdom, support, and practical assistance, to those who have suffered from trauma. A Wiradjuri woman, Aunty Glendra offers cultural guidance, acting as a mentor and providing a sense of belonging for students within our community.
Our space: your home away from home
Jumbunna isn't just a place; it's your small family within the city. Our light and airy welcoming centre offers a 24/7 space for advice, study, and relaxation. Featuring a computer lab, collaborative classrooms, study areas, and social spaces, there's room for all your needs. Plus, our native garden, Waraburra Nura, offers a serene outdoor retreat.
Financial assistance
Financial aid includes government programs and supplementary support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tertiary students. It covers income, accommodation, emergency aid, and student loans. Seek guidance from Abstudy for details.
UTS Student Services financial assistance service also offers information, advice and referral to other organisations and can, in certain circumstances, arrange emergency assistance and small interest-free loans. If you have any questions, contact the team. At Jumbunna, we offer support for financial challenges related to course activities. Seek assistance early as applying for funds may take time.
Housing support
UTS Housing provides a nurturing environment supporting your academic journey. Choose from fully furnished, self-catered options, and rest easy with regular security patrols and residential support. Leaving home can present challenges, especially in Sydney where securing affordable accommodation can pose a significant obstacle to pursuing a university education.
However, Jumbunna works closely with UTS Housing to assist your transition to this new setting. If you face financial constraints or challenges at home affecting your studies, or if you don't qualify for Abstudy, we're here to support you. Depending on your situation, we can provide assistance, including cost-covered accommodation.
General health and wellbeing
Seeking help for your mental health while at university is a courageous step, and it's perfectly okay to do so. If you're dealing with mental health issues, anxiety, or depression, UTS Health Service offers counselling and necessary treatment.
UTS provides resources and support for mental health concerns, ensuring you have the assistance you need.
Tutorial support: Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Scheme (ITAS)
ITAS provides indigenous tutorial support and is an integral part of your discipline-based learning journey. Eligible students can apply for personalised supplementary tuition, either individually or in small groups, for up to two hours per week, per subject.
ITAS is a complimentary service funded by the Commonwealth Government and managed by the National Indigenous Australian Agency, aimed at supporting your academic progress.
Scholarships
Scholarships are usually based on academic excellence or a blend of academic achievements and financial requirements.
Explore available scholarships and prizes at UTS. Make sure to note application deadlines and plan, as applications may require time to complete.
For inquiries, get in touch with the UTS Scholarships Office at 02 9514 2527 or via email at scholarships@uts.edu.au.
Postgraduate studies and research opportunities
Explore the array of postgraduate courses at UTS designed to broaden your career prospects. Discover the right UTS course to align with your ambitions.
For students interested in research, a UTS research degree offers valuable expertise and leadership skills valued across industries, government, and academia. Various higher degree research qualifications are available, including industry doctorates, dual, and joint degrees.
Consider exploring research opportunities within the Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research. The institute is seeking students passionate about:
- achieving indigenous-specific strategic research outcomes
- conducting top-tier research on indigenous legal and policy matters
- establishing strategic partnerships with community-based organisations
For students keen on conducting research at the institute, reach out to Jumbunna for further information.
Our dedicated staff
Maree Graham – Director of Indigenous Students and Community Engagement
My name is Maree Graham and I am a Wiradjuri woman from central New South Wales. I have worked in the indigenous higher education sector for over two decades. I am the Director of Indigenous Students and Community Engagement.
Blanch Lake – Manager, Indigenous Student Experience
My name is Blanch Lake, I am from the Weilwan clan of the Wiradjuri nation. I have lived and worked in Sydney on Gadigal land since leaving high school. I am the Manager of Indigenous Student Experience at Jumbunna.
Neil Randall – Indigenous Outreach Officer
My name is Neil Randall and I am from Yaegl country, far north coast of NSW on the Clarence River. I work as an Outreach Officer in Jumbunna at UTS.
Paul Grant - Indigenous Student Engagement Officer
Hi, my name is Paul Grant. I am from the Tiwi Islands. I live in Larrakia country in Darwin. I am the Indigenous Student Engagement Officer for Jumbunna based in the Northern Territory.
Skye McDonald – Student Services and Engagement Officer
Hello, my name is Skye McDonald, and my family is from the Wiradjuri Nation. I have lived along the east coast of Australia and overseas. I work as an Indigenous Student Services and Engagement Officer in Jumbunna.
Sallie Paternoster – Student Success and Engagement Officer
Hello, my name is Sallie Paternoster. I am a non-Indigenous who grew up in Whadjuk Noongar country and currently work as a Student Success and Engagement Officer at Jumbunna.
Tamatau Faleono – Student Services and Engagement Officer
Proud Wiradjuri and Weilwan man born and raised on Darug country, I am a UTS Alumnus, grateful to give back in the work that Jumbunna provides as a Student Services and Engagement Officer.
Applying to UTS: Jumbunna Pathways Program
At Jumbunna, we don't solely rely on your ATAR to determine your readiness for university.
Through our Jumbunna Pathways Program, you can demonstrate your readiness for higher education beyond your ATAR. This program allows you to exhibit a broader perspective of yourself, including your past life experiences and professional background.
Connect with us.
Reach out to our team at the Jumbunna Institute to explore courses, support options, available scholarships, research opportunities, and the vibrant university experience at UTS.
Use our online enquiry form or contact us at Jumbunna@uts.edu.au or on 1800 064 312. Our team is available Monday to Friday.
We're here to support you every step of the way.