What is SSAF?

SSAF (the Student Services and Amenities Fee) is money contributed by students and reinvested back into services, programs and initiatives that support your day‑to‑day uni life. It helps fund things like food security, financial support, advocacy, clubs and societies, wellbeing initiatives, and access to shared equipment. 

Most importantly, SSAF helps make sure student voices shape the support available on campus. 

The services and initiatives highlighted here exist because students have shared what matters to them. 

Over the past few years, students have provided feedback in different ways — including surveys, suggestion box sessions and other feedback channels used across campus. That input has helped shape how SSAF funding is used and how student support continues to grow and improve. 

This page brings together a snapshot of what students have asked for, and what’s been delivered in response. 

You asked. We listened.

Financial counselling 

You told us financial counselling matters…  So we made it easier to access. Students can now book free, confidential 1:1 appointments with a Financial Counsellor for help with budgeting, bills, debt or unexpected costs.

Learn more about Financial Counselling  

Food Hub 

You told us food security is critical…  So Food Hub now supports more students than ever, with increased stock and a wider range of fresh and essential food options — helping take pressure off when money is tight.

Learn more about Food Hub  

Clubs and societies support 

You asked for stronger club support…  So we boosted Club Grants and rolled out executive training and wellbeing resources, helping student‑run clubs stay sustainable, inclusive and well supported. 

Learn more about Clubs and Societies support  

On‑campus advice and advocacy 

You told us advice should be easy to find…  So we introduced on‑campus pop‑ups where students can get help with advocacy, legal and tenancy questions — no long searches, just practical support when you need it. 

Learn more about Advocacy and Legal Support

Borrowing Centre 

You told us you need easier access to equipment…  So the Borrowing Centre now includes everyday items like laptops, kettles and microwaves — free to borrow, so you don’t have to buy things just to get through uni. 

Learn more about the Borrowing Centre

Skill building 

You told us you want practical skills that support everyday life…  So we introduced cooking classes and food literacy programs that help students build confidence in the kitchen, make the most of their budget, and develop skills they can use long after uni. 

Learn more about Skill Building programs

Student Support Advisors 

You told us it can be hard to know where to go for help…  So UNSW expanded access to Student Support Advisors — a first point of contact who can help you navigate uni systems, connect you with the right services, and support you through personal, academic or wellbeing challenges. 

Learn more about Student Support Advisors

Studying in Canberra? Your SSAF supports you too. 

You told us you wanted more services in Canberra. We heard you. We’re working to make sure students studying at UNSW Canberra can access more of the support, representation and opportunities your SSAF helps fund.

  • Access Arc support from Canberra — Canberra students can access a range of Arc services online, including free Legal & Advocacy support and Financial Counselling, with confidential advice and practical support available wherever you’re studying.

  • Student representation — Canberra postgraduate students are represented through the Postgraduate Council (PGC), including a dedicated Canberra Campus Officer who represents the interests and needs of the Canberra student community.

  • Supporting student life in Canberra — Arc provides support for student-led activities, clubs and initiatives that help build connection and community on campus.

We know there’s more to do, and we’ll continue working with Canberra students to grow the services and opportunities available on campus.


Have your say

These initiatives are only part of how SSAF responds to student feedback. Throughout 2026, students will have more chances to share what’s working, what’s missing and what would make the biggest difference. 

Because when students speak up, things actually change 

Links to UNSW Information

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