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, and other items.

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.

How do I access the Survival Centre?

Students in need of a helping hand are welcome to visit the Survival Centre. Please complete our online form, 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.

Due to increased demand on the Survival Centre in recent months, students may currently take up to 10 items (fitting into one of the provided bags) when they access the Survival Centre. The Survival Centre has limited resources and provides basic food and supplies to students needing emergency support. The Advocate providing access to the Survival Centre may ask questions related to your financial situation and your food situation to support you to access other programs that may be available to you. Prior to accessing the Survival Centre for the 3rd time in a calendar year, you may be invited to meet with DUSA’s Financial Counsellor.

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:
Please attend Waurn Ponds, or contact us online.
Warrnambool & Cloud:
Please contact us online.

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

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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