Advocacy staff member offering student food staples at the DUSA Survival centre
Person holding a bottle of shampoo and conditioner

Survival Centre

Struggling to make ends meet financially? Too hungry to think? We're here to help Deakin Students.

DUSA’s Student Survival Centres are available for Deakin students who are facing financial hardships and in need of basic emergency food and supplies.

We stock free essential food and grocery items to help you out if things get a bit overwhelming.

What’s available at the Survival Centre?

Free basic food items, personal hygiene products, sexual health products, clothing, towels, stationary, notebooks and more.

If we do not have the items you need, our friendly team of Advocates are here to help. We can discuss further available supports and referral options to help you get the assistance you need. Additional support available includes DUSA’s free Financial Counselling, and Deakin’s Financial Assistance for students.

Where is the Survival Centre?

Our Survival Centres are located on campus at DUSA.
Burwood: DUSA Advocacy Office, Building A, Level 2
Waurn Ponds:
DUSA Reception, JB Building, Level 1
Waterfront:
DUSA Office, Building D, Level 1
Warrnambool & Cloud:
Please contact us online.

How do I access the Survival Centre?

Students in need of a helping hand are welcome to come and collect the items they need. Please call us on 9246 8615 or complete our online form, and we can then arrange a time for you to visit our Survival Centre, or provide alternative support and information if you are not able to attend campus.

If you have any questions about the supports DUSA provides, please contact our Advocacy team.

DUSA's Financial Hardship Laptop Program

From a Deakin University Community Grant, DUSA has a small number of low-spec laptops to provide to students experiencing financial hardship and are unable to purchase a laptop to undertake the requirements of their course. Find out how to apply here on our Laptop Application page.

DUSA SASS Testimonial Image 4

“Very discrete and considerate welfare assistance support I received. I felt respected and non-judgementally provided with much needed help.”

Male student and Advocacy staff member standing in front of shelves of food at the DUSA Survival Centre

DUSA offers a range of welfare services. Watch this video to find out more.

Become a member of your student association and you’ll get awesome merch PLUS discounts on your OFest tickets.

Female student standing outside wearing a DUSA Hoodie and carrying a DUSA backpack
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