Australian South Sea Islander Services
Australian South Sea Islanders are the direct descendants of South Sea Islanders who were brought into Queensland between 1863 and 1904 from 80 Pacific Islands.
The University of the Sunshine Coast acknowledges and supports the Queensland Legislative Assembly’s Recognition of Australian South Sea Islander people as a distinct cultural group, and the significant contributions they have made to the social, cultural and economic development of this state. The University is also committed to assisting the government in addressing areas of need identified by the Australian South Sea Islander community including education and employment.
USC services and facilities
Student Services is working, in collaboration with Islander representatives and groups, and the Australian South Sea Islander Community Foundation, to encourage more Australian South Sea Islanders to continue their education. The University provides services and facilities for Australian South Sea Islander people to pursue tertiary education goals and career aspirations including:
- a friendly Australian Indigenous and Islander presence on campus
- culturally appropriate resources
- scholarships
- academic support
- mentoring
- work-based learning opportunities
The University’s Buranga Centre supports and provides the University with information regarding Australian South Sea Islander peoples, cultures and knowledge. Students and the community are welcome to visit the Buranga Centre, but it is recommended you book in advance for an appointment.
Student support
The University is committed to supporting Australian South Sea Islander students through:
New Indigenous and Australian South Sea Islander students are welcomed with a pre-orientation program that includes academic skills workshops, tours of the campus and facilities, and personal introductions. This enables a comfortable introduction to university life. Indigenous and Australian South Sea Islander students are also encouraged to access support available including counselling, disability support, careerconnection and wellbeing and health.
More information
For details on Australian South Sea Islander Services at the University, telephone Indigenous Services on +61 7 5459 4439 or +61 7 5459 4799 or email: Indigenous_Services@usc.edu.au
For further information contact: