Murrup Barak
Murrup Barak means ‘the spirit of Barak’ in Woiwurrung language. We chose this name to honour the memory of William Barak – a visionary Wurundjeri leader.
Murrup Barak has a diverse team with dedicated staff members who help to contribute to our objectives while supporting the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student cohort. Director, Inala Cooper (Yawuru) leads Murrup Barak while we work closely with Student and Scholarly Services to provide student administration and support. Murrup Barak also delivers wellbeing and scholarly support services, such as the Indigenous Tutorial Access Scheme to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at any stage in their degree.
Learn more about us
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Our work
We support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who are studying or considering study at university.
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Our values
Murrup Barak has six values that guide the way we operate and how we invite others to engage and work with us.
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Our strategy
At Murrup Barak, we aim to support students in line with broader strategies and policies of the University.
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Cultural protocols
The University follows certain protocols that ensure appropriate acknowledgement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
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Studying with us
If you are interested in studying at the University of Melbourne, learn about what is offered to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
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Get in touch
If you're wanting more information about studying at the University, reach out to our team.
Contact us
Artwork by Nakia Cadd
Across our website, socials and publications, you may see an image of Bunjil, the creator spirit, who takes the form of a wedge-tailed eagle. This illustration was created by Nakia Cadd (Gunditjmara, Yorta Yorta, Dja Dja Wurrung, Bunitj, Boon Wurrung, Taungurung) who closely worked with our staff to centre Bunjil as an important aspect of our identity. This depiction of Bunjil honours the Country we work on and the strength and determination of future, current and past Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at The University of Melbourne.
We are deeply appreciative of Nakia's work producing this illustrations of Bunjil centring Victorian Aboriginal artistry and the stories of the Country in the south-east.
There are tailored study options and pathways at the University of Melbourne for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
Murrup Barak can provide support or connect you to our network if you are an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person who is interested in studying at the University of Melbourne. The University offers undergraduate courses across nine key disciplines, graduate courses across eleven study areas and access to a wide range of research themes through graduate research.
Explore courses for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
Whether this is your first degree or you are returning to study, Murrup Barak can help support you explore your interests.
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Undergraduate courses
Your first experience studying at university undertaking a bachelor degree in one of nine disciplines.
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Graduate courses and research
Found your passion? Our graduate courses allow you to further explore your specialised field of study and interests.
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Faculty resources and initiatives
There are research hubs, programs, and services similar to Murrup Barak across the University that you can access as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student.
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Special entry access schemes
The University offers different equity programs for undergraduate and graduate courses aimed at supporting your entry into the University.
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Financial support
You may be eligible for financial support whilst undertaking study at the University.
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Fees
Find out about tuition fees and other fees and expenses you'll need to consider when you come to study at Melbourne.
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Confirming your eligibility
When you apply to the University of Melbourne, you are asked to supply Murrup Barak with documents to confirm your eligibility for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander services. These services include access to Murrup Barak events and activities, as well as a range of other supports provided to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students whilst studying with Melbourne.
It is important to understand your responsibility to confirm your eligibility for these services.
Want to know more?
If you're an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person wanting to study at the University of Melbourne, please get in touch with us.
Our Outreach Team work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples considering studying at the University of Melbourne.
We can provide you with further information and advice about applying or provide you with the resources you may need to make a decision about tertiary study. We are also available to schools and organisations that support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
If you are looking for additional help with study options, scholarships, applications and on-campus accommodation or if you are interested in studying at the University, we invite you to contact our Outreach team and they will be in touch.
Engagement opportunities
Murrup Barak and the University provide opportunities for those who may be interested in studying with us to get involved with our community.
Camps
Camps are a great way for Years 9, 10, 11 and 12 students to explore their interests and experience what studying at the University is like. We highly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to apply for these camps:
- sheCommerce
- Victorian Indigenous Engineering Winter School
- Girl Power in Engineering and IT
- Residential Indigenous Science Experience
Yagilaith
Yagilaith is an is an opportunity for Year 11 and 12 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students on an ATAR or IB pathway in any state or territory to experience what studying at The University of Melbourne is like. The camp takes place in June each year with applications open from February. All expenses are covered for this program.
Meet us in-person or online
School visits
Our Outreach team are available for in-person and virtual visits to discuss higher education options with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
On-campus visits
We also welcome groups to visit us on-campus. We provide a short presentation about study options and then host a tour of Murrup Barak and the Parkville campus.
Online consults
If you can't make it to meet us in-person, our Outreach team offer online consults with students, teachers and parents/carers about study options, pathways, VTAC and applications, on-campus accommodation, scholarships and more
Campus tours
Our Outreach team offer tours of the Parkville campus. Alternatively, visitors to campus can download a self-guided walking tour map which provides you with a plotted history of campus architecture and other landscape features. The tour takes about an hour to complete.
Events
Our staff attend a number of events across the country to connect with mob and see if The University of Melbourne may be right for them. If you are hosting an event and would like us to attend, submit an enquiry to our Outreach team.
You can also follow us on Instagram to keep up-to-date on community events we are attending.
The University also hosts various in-person and online events for future students considering studying a course with us. Please visit the future students page for upcoming events.
Take the stress out of securing safe, welcoming and educationally-enriching student housing by joining one of our residential communities.
All University of Melbourne accommodation options are located just a short walk from the Parkville campus in the heart of the city.
There are three different options for on-campus accommodation that you may be interested in.
- University Accommodation: exclusive to University of Melbourne student, designed to enhance your university experience.
- University Colleges: offer an immersive campus lifestyle. Colleges provide comprehensive academic support, cooked meals and a range of cultural, social and pastoral support activities.
- Partner Accommodation: collaboration with nationally recognised student accommodation providers to support high quality accommodation options close to the Parkville campus.
For more information about student housing, visit the Student Accommodation page.
Confused about your options or worried about how you can afford student accommodation?
Let us know if you are planning to live in student accommodation when you apply to the University. We can offer suggestions and help you to understand what financial support you may be eligible for.
Frequently asked questions
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Which accommodation options provide meals?
Only University Colleges provide meals.
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When should I apply for accommodation?
It is important to start making plans for where you will live before you commence study as most accommodation options will reach capacity close to the beginning of each semester.
Applications for University Colleges usually open in March.
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What should I do if I can't afford the application fee?
If you are unable to afford the application fee, contact the accommodation provider for a fee waiver. Alternatively, you can also contact us.
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Will I have to move out during the non-teaching periods or holidays?
Whether you will have to move out during non-teaching or holiday periods will depend on your accommodation. It is highly unlikely to be asked to move out for mid-semester break, but for Summer and Winter holidays, you may need to find alternative accommodation. Check with your preferred accommodation for more information.
Key dates are also available to help you plan
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What happens if I get an offer to live at a University College but don’t get a University of Melbourne offer?
Some University Colleges are open to other universities including RMIT, Monash (Pharmacy) and ACU. If you received an offer for a college, you may still be eligible to take up your offer. You can find more information on the University Colleges website.
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Accommodation financial support
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students may be eligible for additional financial support to assist with the costs of living on-campus.
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Student experience
We provide a range of support as well as social and cultural activities that you can get involved with other students.
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Contact us
Speak to a member of our staff if you are considering living on-campus while studying at university.
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There are a range of financial support services at the University of Melbourne including scholarships specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
You can find scholarships that you may be eligible for by navigating through the University's dedicated Scholarships page.
You can also find out additional information on financial aid services provided by the University by exploring financial support and scholarships.
If you are a current Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student at the University and experiencing financial stress or crisis, contact the Student Success team.
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Scholarships & Grants
The University offers scholarships and grants to undergraduate and gradaute students based on a range of factors.
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Financial support for accommodation
There is help is available to assist with the costs of living on campus while you study at the University.
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Contact us
We encourage you to get in contact with us if you would like to discuss financial support at the University.
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Your success is fundamental to studying at the University with access to social, academic and cultural events that you can participate in to elevate your university experience.
We aim to create a welcoming and supportive environment at Murrup Barak for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at the University of Melbourne. We host events specifically for mob across the academic year such as study nights, health and fitness classes, weekly lunches and workshops.
Enriching your experience at the University of Melbourne
Murrup Barak supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from the very start of your degree, through to graduation and beyond. We run an orientation program, Dhumbali, for commencing students at the beginning of each semester. Find out how you can participate in Dhumbali and get to know other mob at the University.
Indigenous Tutorial Access Scheme (ITAS)
ITAS provides tutoring sessions for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander university students. The scheme is funded by the Commonwealth Government and we deliver the program. We strongly encourage all students to access the benefits of ITAS.
Studying on campus
Murrup Barak provides study rooms that you can use 24/7. We also have rooms that are able to be booked for ITAS tutoring. As an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student, you also have access to a private computer room with complimentary printing, which can also be used for study.
The University is also well-equipped with on-campus study spaces that you can use as an alternative to the spaces provided in our building.
Graduate support
We support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander graduate students studying at the University through a variety of networks. This includes direct, personal support for cultural and academic advocacy within a safe environment. Murrup Barak also provides academic and professional opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander graduate students through various events, lectures, and conferences.
In partnership with the Indigenous Graduate Student Association, we provide a safe space for graduate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to study in, located on Level 3, 100 Leicester Street (Building 278), Carlton. You will have access to the space via scanning your Student ID. The Common Room includes computers with access to complimentary printing, break-out areas for group work, lockers, and kitchen facilities.
If you are a student interested in how Murrup Barak can support your graduate study, please submit an enquiry and a member of our Student Success team will contact you.
Future pathways
We directly support current Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with their future career options and further study opportunities, whether at the University or not. We aim to connect students with a specialist in their field that they are interested in and with faculty networks external to Murrup Barak. This also includes facilitating a productive transition for students from study to opportunities beyond graduating, such as internships or graduate roles.
Throughout the year, our events often showcase future study options and career pathways for graduates. We also host student mixers to help create connections between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander graduates. We also collaborate externally with community stakeholders, supporting students to attend events, conferences and other academic and professional networking events.
If you are a student interested in how Murrup Barak can support your transition to further study or the workforce, please submit an enquiry and a member of our Student Success team will contact you.
If you want to learn more about what your university experience may look like, check out our student life page.
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Dhumbali
Dhumbali is our orientation program for commencing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
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Student representation
Students can get involved in extra-curricular activities or access additional support through the University of Melbourne Student Union.
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Community connections and international partnerships
Murrup Barak has strong relationships within the community and on a global level, connecting with Indigenous Peoples across the world.
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If you are looking for additional advice and help with studying at the University of Melbourne, you can contact Stop 1. If you are looking to study at the University and are not of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage, you can submit an enquiry.
Murrup Barak works to support students with their studies and is guided by the University's policies and strategies. If you are wanting more information about these policies, you can read about Murrup Barak's strategy. We kindly ask that you contact the Indigenous Strategy team if you require further information on University policy.
Future students
Thinking about studying at the University? Contact our Outreach team who provide one-on-one support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples interested in study.
Current students
Already enrolled and studying? Contact our Student Success team if you are an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student currently studying at the University.
Teachers, support staff and schools
Contact our Outreach team if you are a liaison officer, careers counsellor, community worker, or teacher working with someone interested in tertiary study.
Indigenous Tutorial Access Scheme (ITAS)
Contact our ITAS Coordinator if you are a student or tutor enquiring about the Indigenous Tutorial Access Scheme. Additional information and access to the portal is available on our ITAS page.
Employers
If you are an employer looking to promote to students, you can list your opportunity on Careers Online, a self-managed, free service that the University provides for promoting job opportunities to current students, graduates and alumni.
Please note that Murrup Barak does not manage this service. If you are interested in learning more about how we promote opportunities to students, please visit our dedicated Careers page.
General enquiries
Please direct all general enquiries via email to our Community Liaison Officer.
Our location
You can find us on the Parkville campus located on the eastern side of the Old Physics Building.
Murrup Barak is only available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and students via swipe access using a Staff/Student ID. If you require access, please get in contact with us.
Address: Murrup Barak, Old Physics Building (Building 128), University of Melbourne, Wurundjeri Country, Parkville, VIC 3010
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples should be aware that this website contains images, voices and names of deceased persons.
Support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at Australia's top university
The purpose of Murrup Barak is to provide a safe, responsive and empowering service to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We support First Peoples both interested in higher education and currently enrolled at The University of Melbourne.
Align your interests with your chosen degree
The University of Melbourne offers many undergraduate, graduate coursework, graduate research and PhD courses. There are a number of study areas that you can align to your interests, aspirations, career and professional goals.
Find the right course for you and see why studying with us is different to other universities.
Help with the costs of studying
Once you confirm your eligibility as an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student, you can access bursaries and scholarships that can be helpful in easing financial pressures while you are studying.
A supportive environment to excel
We aim to provide a safe, culturally-empowering environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Our building is open for students via swipe card access where you can take a break in between classes, participate in ITAS tutorials in our private tute rooms, or join us for a free lunch every Tuesday during semester.
Acknowledgment of Country
Murrup Barak acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land and waterways where we work and learn, the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung, Boonwurrung, Bunurong, Dja Dja Wurrung, and Yorta Yorta Peoples. We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present.
We recognise the diversity of First Nations peoples throughout Australia and the unique relationships they have with Country since time immemorial. We also recognise the important place of Indigenous knowledges within the academy.