APSAA Student Accommodation Journal - December 2024

STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

Behavioural

First

Working

Property

Systems

Bomb

Responsible

Confine

Mental

Incident

After

Room

Student

Incident

APSAA HOME OFFICE

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DISCLAIMER

This journal is copyright and all rights are reserved. Apart from any use as permitted under the copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced without prior written permission. All reasonable efforts have been made to obtain permission to use copyright material reproduced. Every effort has been made to obtain accurate information for this publication. The views expressed in this journal are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of APSAA.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

Australia:

APSAA acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia. We recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s continuing connection to lands, waters and communities; and we pay our respect to them and their cultures and to Elders past, present and emerging.

Aotearoa | New Zealand:

APSAA honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi | The Treaty of Waitangi as Aotearoa | New Zealand’s founding document and recognises the special place of Māori in Aotearoa as mana whenua.

te Tangata – Weaving People Together: A recap of the

• ACUHO-I New Professional Award 2024 – Aotearoa

• ACUHO-I New Professional Award 2024 – Australia

• Fred Johnson Award for Best practice/Professional achievement in Aotearoa

• Fran O’Brien Award for New Professionals

• Joe Massingham Award and Life Membership

• Excellence in Customer Service

• Excellence in Facility Development or Management

• Excellence in Marketing and Communications

• Excellence in Student Experience

• Excellence in Sustainable Development Goals – Corporate

•

•

• Excellence in Sustainable Development Goals – College

Simmons with the three awards presented to the University of Auckland.

Stephanie Harris, Stacey Morgan, Tara Baker and Leanne

Jacob

Waitere General Manager Portfolio – UniLodge, University of Canterbury, APSAA President.

President’s Welcome

Tēnā koe – Greetings and welcome to our December edition of Student Accommodation!

Wow! 2024 has been an absolutely jam-packed year of membership activity and industry developments. In our first journal for the year then President, Marion Grey, wrote that she “never experienced a start to a year with such a focus on student accommodation”. This reflected the work that APSAA was proud to be a part of with the federal action plan on addressing gender-based violence and the Universities Accord. While at time of writing, we have not seen this process completed, we are prepared as an association to support our members with this important piece of work.

Staying focused on the Australian federal government, we saw annoucements about caps on international students, and have seen how universities have reacted to this, alongside many of our APSAA members. International students are an important aspect of student accommodation. They add vibrancy to our campuses and cities and we will see how this cap affects us all once it is fully implemented.

While this journal focuses on some of those important topics, it is also one that highlights many positive achievements of the association and our members. Our annual conference and awards was hosted in the beautiful country of Aotearoa | New Zealand (yes, I can acknowledge my bias!) in Tāmaki Mākaurau | Auckland. This conference represented the third conference APSAA has facilitated offshore, and 13 years since the last hosted in Wellington. We were proud to bring back our multi-day study tour, that took participants from the capital in Wellington, up through the middle of the North Island finishing with a cultural noho marae experience in Auckland. We also had conference delegates from five different countries (NZ, AU, UK, USA, SG). I think what I look back on with the most amount of pride is that our Kiwi colleagues really rolled out the manaakitanga (care) and invited all to experience our unique treasures in the form of our Māori and Pasifika students.

This edition also highlights the amazing success of our members recognised at the conference awards gala dinner. As President, it was absolutely one of the highlights of the role being able to see the joy on members faces as they are recognised for their efforts. Student accommodation is a profession that requires you to give a bit of your person into it, and to recognise recipients for such diversity in their work this year continues to inspire me.

But wait, there is more! This year APSAA has continued to deliver to our members and represent the profession in a range of areas. These include:

• Hosting our first Asia Summit in Singapore!

• Rolling out our Developing Nations membership option

• Representing APSAA at the CUBO conference in Belfast, Northern Ireland

• Representating APSAA at the ACUHO-I Conference in Milwaukee, USA

• Representing APSAA at the UCA and NAUCC Conferences

• Hosting regional Summits in Canberra and Sydney

• Hosting networking events in Melbourne, Canberrra, Sydney and Perth

• Facilitating Student Accommodation Essentials in Perth

• Obviously the amazing conference in Auckland, NZ

• The Global Housing Training Institute facilitated in Sydney

• Record attendance at our online Speaker Series webinar

• Plus so much more!

This work is possible by the generous volunteering of our members. To all those who have been involved as a facilitator, committee member, attendee or a reader of our journal, I thank you so much. To the Board of Directors, thank you again for your trust in me as President, and the support you offer. To the APSAA home office team, thank you for facilitating our crazy ideas.

Finally from me a heartfelt thank you to Vice-President, Simone Gallo, for your support as we stepped into these executive positions, and to Past-President, Marion, for your advice and wisdom in making this transition so smooth.

2025 is going to be a busy year, as we level up our association and continue to support our members. In the meantime, I wish you a restful and joyous holiday season, stay safe and see you at an event near you!

Mauri ora | Go well,

Jacob

Waitere

President | Tumuaki

Accommodation

Australian Catholic University,

APSAA Vice Chair & Communications and Engagement

Committee Chair

From the Editor

As 2024 draws to a close, this issue celebrates the incredible achievements of our community while looking ahead to pivotal changes shaping our sector. This year’s APSAA Conference in Auckland was a testament to the strength and diversity of our network, bringing together members from across the region to share insights, celebrate success, and foster a spirit of inclusivity. There was a feeling of connection and collaboration, reminding us why our shared vision to support and nurture excellence in the student accommodation profession is so meaningful.

INDUSTRY MOVEMENTS

• Aquinas College, SA: Sean Brito-Babapulle, APSAA life member, has resigned from his role as Rector.

• Arcady Hall, Canterbury, NZ: Eddye Davidson, formerly Communications and Office Coordinator appointed as Operations Manager, following the resignation of Ollie van der Pol. Olivia Hundleby appointed as Communications & Office Coordinator.

• Campus Living Villages, ECU Village, WA: Margarita Santana appointed Operations Manager, formerly the Manager of WA Homestay Network.

• Curtin University, WA: Dean Macaulay appointed Director of Accommodation and Community Services. Nadine Kurschner appointed Senior Manager of Accommodation.

• Ormond College, VIC: Dr Ari Metuamate appointed Master of Ormond College, University of Melbourne.

• Te Pā Tauira, Otago Polytechnic, Dunedin, NZ: Sarah-Jane McLennan appointed Community Manager.

• University of Wollongong, NSW: Rachel Brewster (previously USYD) appointed Senior Manager, Student Residence.

This edition also turns its focus to a critical development set to shape the future of student accommodation: the incoming National Code to prevent and respond to genderbased violence in higher education. This new legislation presents both a challenge and an opportunity for providers to lead the way in creating safer, more inclusive environments. We are pleased to feature two thought-provoking articles in this issue, offering practical guidance and best practices to help our members navigate this important transition. From prevention strategies to support mechanisms and reporting

frameworks, these contributions underscore the power of proactive approaches and collaboration.

As we reflect on a year of growth and progress, we also set our sights on the future. APSAA is committed to equipping our members with the knowledge and resources needed to adapt to new standards and continue delivering world-class accommodation experiences.

Thank you for your dedication and passion throughout 2024. We look forward to sharing another year of professional development and connection with you in 2025.

Simone Gallo National Manager Student

Sonia Mazey Principal, Arcady Hall, Adjunct Professor of Public Policy, University of Canterbury, APSAA Board, Aotearoa Advisory Group & Research and Knowledge Committee member

Aotearoa Update

Kia ora tātou katoa

Increasing Demand for University Student Accommodation

With just a few weeks of the academic year left to go, we are already preparing for next year’s residents – and we’re certainly busy. All New Zealand universities are reporting an increase in applications for halls of residence next year, compared to last year. Canterbury has received 4,097 applications for 2,800 spaces next year, Otago has received 4,700 applications for 3,755 places, and Victoria, 4,424 applications for 2,741 places. Auckland, AUT, Waikato, Lincoln and Massey also expect their accommodation to be fully subscribed next year. To be clear, these applications include students who have applied to multiple universities and might not take up an offered place, as well students who might not achieve university entrance and would have to withdraw their application. Even so, there does seem to be increased demand everywhere –mainly from domestic students –for university accommodation.

This upswing is attributable, in part, to a modest rise in domestic school leaver numbers and a growing shortage of affordable, private accommodation options in some cities. It also reflects increasing appreciation among students (and their families) of the social, academic and pastoral care benefits of a university hall, first year student experience. International enrolments are also increasing. New restrictions on overseas students have recently been introduced by Australia, Canada and the UK in response to concerns about immigration levels, housing costs and visa abuse. However, public support for overseas students remains high in New Zealand, with most kiwis convinced of the economic benefits of international education, though the potential impact on housing availability is a concern. New Zealand has set an ambitious goal to double the value of its international education

sector by 2027 which if achieved, will further increase demand for university student accommodation and require those facilities to be welcoming and nurturing communities for all cultures.1

Against this backdrop, several universities are expanding –and diversifying – their student accommodation portfolios. Auckland and Otago universities opened new facilities earlier this year. Auckland University is also planning a new high-rise development in the CBD, comprising some 600 self-contained studio units across 31 floors, for occupancy in 2028. Canterbury’s, Tupuārangi Hall is currently under construction and will provide some 265 additional beds from 2026. Lincoln is planning to build purpose-built housing for postgraduate students, and Waikato is looking at adding more student accommodation near its Tauranga campus, which opened in 2019.

Arcady Hall Move-in Day February 2024

The New Zealand Tertiary Sector: Still Living with Uncertainty

University rankings aside, 2024 has been a year of ongoing financial uncertainty and challenges for the New Zealand tertiary sector. In March, the National-led government coalition announced plans to transform the university and science sectors to boost the economy. Two advisory groups – the University Advisory Group (UAG) and the Science System Advisory Group (SSAG) – both chaired by Professor Sir Peter Gluckman were established to provide recommendations and advice to government on the future purpose, structure, and funding (including research funding) of the eight universities and the wider scientific research community. Though the working parties’ initial reports were forwarded to ministers in July-August, neither document has yet been discussed by Cabinet, and any major changes are unlikely to be announced before mid-2025.

The government is also still considering how to dissolve Te Pūkenga, the mega New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, established by the former Labour government in 2020. Though the government unveiled plans in August to group together the weakest of Pūkenga’s constituent 16 polytechnics and let the strongest stand alone, the details of this proposal, including funding implications have yet to be confirmed. Unsurprisingly, this uncertainty is adversely impacting staff morale and student enrolments.

Meanwhile, consistent with its commitment to reduce public expenditure across all sectors, the government’s May budget included significant cuts in science research funding, prompting widespread concern within universities and publicly funded scientific research agencies. The National Science Challenges programme, established in 2014 to foster cross -discipline and institution collaboration, was discontinued in June this year. Other major research investment funds (Marsden, Endeavour, Health Research Council), and governmentfunded, science research agencies including Callaghan Innovation, and the seven Crown

The Latest International Rankings: How New Zealand Universities Fared

For the most part, New Zealand’s universities either held their ground, or dipped slightly in this year Times Higher Education (THE) and Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) rankings. Two of New Zealand’s larger universities and its smallest lost ground in the 2025 THE World University rankings, announced in October this year. The University of Auckland dropped two points in the 2025 ranking, falling out of the top 150 for the first time. The University of Otago fell from the 301-350 band of universities to 351-400, and Lincoln University dropped from 401-500 to 501-600. The other five universities’ ‘band’ rankings remained unchanged. Meanwhile, in the 2025 QS World University rankings, Auckland and Waikato Universities improved their position slightly while the other six universities’ placing remained unchanged or dropped.

Note: The THE ranking is based mainly on research and teaching with measures including a reputation survey of academics, staff:student ratios, and number of citations of academics’ research. The QS rankings are based largely on staff:student ratios and reputation surveys of academics and employers. The latest THE rankings include over 2,000 institutions from 115 countries and territories. QS rankings include 1,500 institutions across 106 locations.

Aotearoa Update

Continued from previous page

Research Institutes (CRIs), also experienced funding cuts resulting in job losses and ‘downsizing’ of key research programmes.

This year’s budget also failed to alleviate universities concerns about what the government agency, the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) refers to as a looming ‘fiscal cliff’. In December 2023, the former Labour government provided cash-strapped universities with a post-budget, $128 million bailout. However, that lifeline was for funded for only two years – and this year’s budget offered universities just a break-even prospect for university teaching, with inflation matched by increases of 2.5% to government tuition subsidies and an increase of 6% in student fees. Universities must wait until next year’s budget to see whether the additional funding will be reinstated. Universities New Zealand’s (UNZ) Chris Whelan has warned that if the additional funding uplift is not restored in next year’s budget, the results will be ‘very, very difficult and probably catastrophic for parts of the sector’. (J Ross, 2024, p.5)

Closing Remarks

To all my colleagues on the Aotearoa Advisory Group – Abigail, Brooke, Jacob, Max, Martin, Melinda, Melissa, Tara, and Karen in the office – thank you for all your work throughout the year, including planning and helping to run a very successful APSAA annual conference in Auckland. Have a great summer and I look forward to working with you on new projects next year

Meri kirihimete me te tau hou kia tātou katoa | Merry Christmas and happy New year everyone.

References

Ministry of Education, ‘University Advisory Group announced’. 27 March 2024. https://www. education.govt.nz/news/university-advisorygroup-announced/

RNZ, ‘Small Polytechs would be federated, others left to stand alone, under govt plan’. https://www. rnz.co.nz/news/political/523859/small-polytechswould-be-federated-others-left-to-stand-aloneunder-govt-plan. 1 August 2024.

John Gerritsen, ‘University halls of residence full to bursting, many prospective students on waitlists’, RNZ, 21 October 2024. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/531381/ university-halls-of-residence-full-to-bursting-manyprospective-students-on-waitlists.

John Ross, ‘Are better days ahead for New Zealand’s stormlashed universities?’, Times Higher Education July 18 2024, https://www.timeshighereducation.com/depth/are-betterdays-ahead-new-zealands-storm-lashed-universities

ICEF Monitor, ‘New Zealand aims to double value of education exports by 2027’, 7 August 2024 New Zealand aims to double value of education exports by 2027 – ICEF Monitor – Market intelligence for international student recruitment.

John Ross, ‘Housing gripes mar growing Kiwi support for overseas students’, Times Higher Education, February 2 2024. Foreign students ‘fuel New Zealand housing woe’ | Times Higher Education (THE)

Footnote

1. APSAA has recently established an Internationalisation Special Interest Group for members. Its goals are to connect APSAA members with a particular interest to share experience and insights, to support the APSAA Board and standing committees to identify and respond to emerging trends within international education, and to challenge the sector to embed international, intercultural, or global dimensions in the delivery of student accommodation. The group is currently identifying priorities for collaborative action ahead of 2025, and would be keen to hear from anyone interested who is not already connected (greg.scott@canterbury.ac.nz)

Reaching for the Stars

The 2025 APSAA conference will explore transformative ideas and innovations poised to shape our future. Featuring a constellation of practical tools, strategies and insights designed to craft solutions that extend beyond tomorrow, the conference will offer knowledge, inspiration and fresh perspectives.

As we navigate the evolving landscape and chart our course ahead, we invite you to join us in reaching for the stars. Your presence and insights will be essential as we build momentum, adapt to our changing landscape and uncover new directions. Together, let’s shape the future and advance innovation in the student accommodation industry.

Conference registrations and call for presentations now open!

We know you are doing great things, and we want to hear about it! We encourage you to share your passion and expertise by submitting an abstract for a workshop or presentation amongst your peers. Presentations are encouraged to be focused on a specific project, case study, framework or improvement program that is relevant to one of our streams.

To submit your abstract, please visit the call for presentations page on the APSAA website and follow the instructions provided.

We are pleased to announce our first keynote speaker for the conference

Dr Dianne McGrath

Dr Dianne McGrath CMP CSP BEd (sec), GD Marketing, GD EnvMgt, GD SustPrac. is many things. She is a modern-day explorer of a different kind.

She has lived her life challenging what others thought was possible, whether that was to prepare for a one-way mission to Mars, circumnavigate our planet, run ultra-marathons, cycle extreme distances, sail in gale storms in a tall ship in the Southern Ocean or biohack her body and mind to become Dianne 2.0.

www.apsaa.org.au/conference/2025/overview/

Whiria te Tāngata | Weaving the people together

Chelsea CarterScales Campus Life Officer, Deakin Residential Services, Vic.

2024 APSAA New Zealand Study Tour

What were you expecting the study tour would be like?

Before heading to New Zealand for the 2024 APSAA study tour, I anticipated a mix of learning, cultural experiences, and of course, fun. I looked forward to visiting different student accommodation facilities and universities to see new approaches and ideas in student housing and campus life. I looked forward to cultural immersion, especially the chance to learn about Māori traditions and their history. I hoped for time to enjoy New Zealand’s stunning scenery as well as opportunities to connect with others in the group with chances to bond and share our experiences within student accommodation.

What was a standout for you on the study tour?

A standout moment on the study tour was the having the privilege of staying at the Te Hana Marae. This experience offered an amazing cultural insight into Māori traditions and values. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with a warm pōwhiri (welcome ceremony) by our

hosts Leanne and Marianna, followed with our performance of Te Aroha, which set the tone for a memorable stay. Engaging in traditional Māori practices, such as participating in karakia (prayers) and sharing kai (meals), allowed us to connect deeply with the local culture. The noho marae experience emphasised the importance of whanaungatanga (kinship and relationships), a strong sense of community and belonging among our group. The opportunity to learn about Māori customs and history firsthand, was both enlightening and enriching. This cultural immersion not only broadened our understanding but also strengthened the bonds between us (we could practically write each other's sleep diaries now) making it a truly transformative part of the tour.

What is one thing you learnt on

the study tour?

One significant lesson I learnt from the study tour which relates highly in my role as Campus Life, was the value of creating "mini moments".

In some ways, being on this tour gave us that “res life experience” and whilst

being in those shoes, I discovered that, it’s essential to build smaller, memorable experiences leading up to larger events. These mini moments help enhance engagement, creating stronger connections among residents. Tara Baker, our insightful leader/ tour guide/ super woman, emphasised how these activities can make a big difference in creating a sense of community. I’m excited to implement this approach at Deakin Res, focusing on creating meaningful experiences that will enrich our campus life and strengthen our community.

I also want to highlight the New Zealand pastoral care code. This unified approach across the country ensures a consistent standard of care and support in every educational institution, reflecting New Zealand's strong commitment to student well-being. By extending this code to everyone, New Zealand shares an inclusive and supportive environment, where every student, regardless of their background, can thrive. This standard is a significant step in creating a safe and nurturing space for all learners.

Day Three: Pit Stop at Huka Falls

Do you think there is value in doing a study tour and why?

Absolutely, a study tour is incredibly valuable. The connections and bonds we made through this experience are truly priceless. Personally, stepping into a new and unfamiliar environment came with its share of nerves, but embracing that challenge led to significant growth. Engaging with industry professionals and networking allowed me to gain fresh insights and expand my horizons. Additionally, immersing myself in a new culture and experiencing life from a resident’s perspective provided a deeper understanding of the field. These interactions and experiences not only enhanced my professional knowledge but also fostered meaningful relationships that will benefit me in the future. The hands-on experience and cultural exposure gained from a study tour are unparalleled, making it a worthwhile investment for both personal and professional development.

Thank you again to all those involved in making this an unforgettable experience. I look forward to bringing back my learnings to campus at Deakin Residential Services and I as well hope this gives everyone a little insight into the value that you get from an APSAA study tour!

Day One: Tour of Victoria University of Wellington (above and below)

Day Four: Te Hana Te Ao Marama for Noho Marae Stay

Day Two: Pit Stop at Carrot Land

Day One: Tour of Te Herenga Waka, Victoria University of Wellington

Day Four: Hamilton Gardens Walk, Hamilton

Day Three: Exploring Lake Taupō

Whiria te Tāngata | Weaving the people together

Ashleigh Milne Engagement Coordinator, Student Living, The University of Newcastle.

Whiria te Tangata –Weaving the people together: A recap of the 2024 APSAA Conference

The indistinct chatter in the room fell to complete silence as the students from O'Rorke Hall

Pasifka Community took their place on the exhibition floor. The voices of the group engulfed the entire room, and in that moment, we were all immediately one. Brought together through traditional song and dance, the arms of the performers reached out and pulled everyone in. This was the first of many performances over the course of the 2024 APSAA Conference that captivated

attendees and a fitting inclusion to the event programming given the theme of the conference – Whiria te Tangata – Weaving People Together.

Over the course of three jampacked days, attendees were given the opportunity to connect (and reconnect) with industry counterparts, uncover new ideas and best practices, collaborate on the issues we all face, gain inspiration from keynote presentations, discuss changes to the landscape of student accommodation, and of course, celebrate the achievements of those in our industry.

If there was one subject that echoed through the conference, it was ‘the code’. We are all aware that student accommodation is changing, we have already seen that in New Zealand and soon Australia too will have legislation to adhere to. Student accommodation will need to regulate cultural changes which are measurable and provide evidence on how we’re making these changes when it comes to gender based violence. Additionally, universities will face potential caps on international student numbers that will impact what success looks like and will mark considerable changes in how we recruit and retain.

At the core of concurrent sessions was the need to engage with residents in innovative ways and put student experience at the forefront. This was

in everything from the ways our living environments are designed and built to bring people together, to how we welcome and interact with residents from a myriad of backgrounds and circumstances. It’s in the events we host for students and the home we create for them, because as Jemaima Tiatai-Siau said, “if we don’t make them feel at home, who will?”

The team from Investor in Students further supported this topic and will lead the way with a group of APSAA members as foundation partners in the launch of the Residential Experience Standard. An evidence-based, data driven, 360-degree view of students’ experience within residences, with benchmarking and accreditation to be rolled out in the Australasian market.

We also learnt that the study tour is not to be missed. Rich in learning about what others are doing within our sector, but also a time of shared experiences, information and knowledge sharing, along with creating bonds and memories for all who took part.

Always a highlight, the Gala Awards was the pinnacle of the conference. Again, we were welcomed with traditional song and dance and moved by the performances of by Grafton Hall Tauira Māori Community. If there’s one culture that speaks to the theme of this conference, it’s that of Aotearoa.

O'Rorke Hall Pasifka Community welcome performance.

This year we celebrated APSAA Excellence Award winners from University of Auckland, University of Southern Queensland, Mannix College and Scape Australia. We recognised individual excellence including:

• Monique Watts, Australian Catholic University – Fran O'Brien Award for New Professionals

• Andrea Schoorl, University of Canterbury – Fred Johnson Award for best practice/professional achievement in Aotearoa

• Tamara Agnew, St Anne's College – ACUHO-I New Professional Award Australia

• Greg Scott, University of Canterbury – ACHUO-I New Professional Award Aotearoa

• Jordan Knight, Grace College – Best of Program Award

• Elizabeth Koni, St Margaret's College – ‘Student Accommodation Journal’ Writers Award

• Marion Grey, Deakin Residential Service – Joe Massingham Award for Meritorious Service / Life Membership

The annual APSAA conference is always a wonderful way to connect, learn and grow within our industry. There is something special about coming together with a shared purpose. We hope that all of your learnings have been welcomed by your peers upon returning to business as usual, that you were able to engage with events hosted by APSAA in the remainder of 2024 and that you’re beginning to look at what is sure to be an exciting 2025

If there was one subject that echoed through the conference, it was ‘the code’. We are all aware that student accommodation is changing, we have already seen that in New Zealand and soon Australia too will have legislation to adhere to.

Learning and networking were central to APSAA 2024.

Grafton Hall Tauira Māori Community Awards dinner performance.

A group of the APSAA Award recipients with their trophies.

2024 APSAA Confrence wrap

Whiria te Tāngata | Weaving the people together

Wendy Fleming Principal, St Ann’s College, APSAA Professional Development Committee member

APSAA Conference 2024: Most popular presentations

The 2024 APSAA Conference really hit the mark with its theme:

“Weaving People Together”. The spread of presenters and topics enabled participants to make choices about what was most relevant to them. Attendees at each session were asked to give feedback, post presentation.

Victoria Thornton Property Manager Operations, UniLodge

Christchurch, APSAA Professional Development Committee member

Based on that feedback, the five most popular presentations were:

1. Jordan Knight

Thinking Differently: Embracing Neurodiversity within our Residences. Jordan’s presentation was highly recommended, not only because of the topic which addressed neurodiversity within residences, but also because Jordan could provide valuable personal insights due to his lived experience.

2. Sixtine Berquist

Beyond the Bedroom: How to market your accommodation offering.

All accommodation providers are vying for a sector of the market and need to continually reflect on the most effective and efficient manner in which to market their offerings.

3. Andrea Rohde & Sally Cassidy

Navigating Complex Mental Health Challenges in Residential Accommodation.

accommodation. The overall increase in mental health challenges facing young people is of high importance within the residential accommodation sector.

4. Lorna Ali

Exploring innovative approaches to address conduct issues and community concerns in a holistic manner.

Lorna provided a thoughtful model which proposed restorative justice as related to conduct instead of simply making totalitarian judgements in response to the conduct of students.

5. Greg Scott, Jacob Waitere & Abigail Frederiske

Re-imagining the future residential student leader role. Within residential student accommodation, we often rely on a model that has always been used. We need to question the responsibilities and expectations of residential student leaders, asking what level of responsibility is appropriate for them to deal with and what limitations should be applied.

In addition to the specific feedback about presentations, we also considered the overall Top Ten topics from the conference. These were decided by attendance at sessions as well as the feedback provided by attendees. In order, these topics were:

1. Beyond the Bedroom: How to market your accommodation offering.

2. Re-imagining the future residential student leader role.

3. Navigating Complex Mental Health Challenges in Residential Accommodation

4. Thinking Differently: Embracing Neurodiversity within our Residences.

5. Exploring innovative approaches to address conduct issues and community concerns in a holistic manner.

6. Visual contracts – improving student understanding of student accommodation contracts.

7. Student Accommodation: emerging challenges and opportunities. A student and client need perspective.

8. Delivering World Class Student Experiences Powered by Technology.

9. Resident Wellbeing and The NZ and Australian Privacy Acts.

10. Highlighting the challenges for transitioning international students.

It is evident from the responses that our sector has wide-ranging interests and is keen to explore issues, learn from those with lived experience, and ensure that our residential accommodation meets the needs of our students, varied and complex as these needs may be.

While we can look at all these topics on a global scale and apply them to the day-to-day operations of student accommodation – and tackle the unique challenges that come with it – one of the most special highlights of this year’s APSAA conference was something truly unforgettable – we simply can’t overlook the seamless integration of Māori culture throughout the event. It was woven into every aspect with authenticity and deep respect, showcasing the true integrity and presence of Aotearoa’s first nations people.

2024 Conference presentations are available for APSAA members on the website here:

Greg Scott presenting in Auckland at APSAA 2024

ACUHO-I New Professional Award 2024 – Aotearoa

Greg Scott, University of Canterbury

Greg commenced a new role of Director, Accommodation Services within the University of Canterbury in November 2020. This was his first experience in this sector after a previous career spanning chartered accounting, school and higher education teaching and management, and New Zealand government international education leadership.

The Director reports into a member of the University Senior Leadership Team, leading a team of six within Accommodation Services. The role provides strategic oversight for a portfolio of 2800 (and growing to 4000) beds, operated by four specialist partner organisations and with budget revenue responsibility for $14 million.

Key responsibilities include;

• accommodation strategic planning,

• team development,

• promotions and applications,

• pastoral care code compliance and support,

• contract monitoring and reporting,

• new facility development as a member of the development programme board,

• relationship management with operating partners and key University support services,

• incident and emergency response (and member of University Incident Management Team).

Over the past 3 and a half years Greg has undertaken a full strategic review of UC Accommodation (including extensive consultation with both internal and external stakeholders), produced a Strategic Plan for the portfolio, overseen the introduction of the Code of Pastoral Care including multiple external reviews, overseen the establishment of the APSAA award-winning Tupuānuku hall, provided leadership in establishing

an Accommodation Development Board (currently undertaking a further new hall development) and provided oversight for major changes in operator partners.

His initial three years in the sector has been an intensive experience where the foundations have been laid for significant change within the University of Canterbury. It has been a steep learning curve, in which Greg has been immensely grateful to have a capable team, committed and professional partners and inspiring colleagues.

Greg has attended two APSAA conferences and this has expanded his horizons to developments in the wider region, and he believes that it is now timely to attend ACUHO-I, providing the opportunity to gain a wider international perspective.

During the 2023 APSAA conference, Greg presented a workshop that focussed on the opportunities and challenges for international students within campus accommodation. This was very well received by a large number of delegates and was followed by a webinar that was facilitated for APSAA early this year, as well as a Journal article in the June edition.

This area is of continuing interest, and Greg is interested in assisting with an ongoing special interest group that has emerged. He would like to pursue this area of interest at ACUHO-I and in particular growing connections between this sector and international education.

Together with colleagues from UC and UniLodge, Greg also presented a workshop at the 2024 APSAA conference focussing on the future of student leadership (RA’s) within halls of residences. They are investigating alternative models for resident support and this work would be enhanced by the opportunity to understand models in operation within North America and beyond.

The University of Canterbury is within the planning stages for further growth in accommodation facilities over the next 5-10 years, and the opportunity to view and understand a range of facilities in the US will be beneficial.

Our sector benefits hugely from the networking of people who share experiences and ideas for mutual benefit and who place our student residents at the centre of our endeavours. As a relative newcomer to the sector, but also as someone with over 20 years’ experience representing New Zealand within the international education sector, Greg will be able to represent both the University and our wider sector very effectively at ACUHO-I.

Greg would be very open to leading and facilitating opportunities for APSAA members to engage with what he learns at ACHUO-I. Alongside the international special interest group, he is looking forward to connecting this with counterparts in a range of other countries and supporting the APSAA board in ways to connect professionals more effectively within the sector.

Greg receiving his award with APSAA President Jacob Waitere and ACHUO-I President Gay Perez.

Whiria te Tāngata | Weaving the people together

ACUHO-I New Professional Award 2024 – Australia

Dr Tamara Agnew, St Ann’s College

Tamara is the Director of Learning at St Ann’s College in North Adelaide, where she was appointed as the inaugural director in 2022 after more than a decade in tertiary education. She combines her love for academic success with a deep commitment to student development. Her background in research on healthcare delivery, aging populations, digital health, and workplace wellbeing, along with her teaching experience at UniSA and Flinders, informs her approach in this role.

At St. Ann’s, Tamara has introduced academic mentoring programs tailored to help students navigate the transition from school to university and manage the demands of academic life. She stays actively engaged in research as Vice-Chair of the APSAA Research and Knowledge Committee, contributing to policies that benefit staff and students across the sector. Whether it's in her day-to-day work or through committee involvement, her focus is on fostering an environment where students can thrive academically and personally, preparing them for what lies ahead.

Tamara believes this award offers a unique opportunity for her to learn from experts in student accommodation from countries outside of APSAA's geographic reach. Such opportunities are not readily available to those living and working in Australia. Attending the ACUHO-I Conference will significantly enhance professional development, allowing her to bring back valuable insights to share with APSAA members and colleagues. Additionally, it will provide a platform to share the Antipodean experience internationally.

Tamara believes “conferences are amazing platforms for engaging with professionals across the industry. Connecting with experts, researchers, and fellow specialists in student accommodation can lead to valuable collaborations, partnerships, and mentorships. Networking with like-minded individuals will expand my professional circle, raise the profile

of APSAA abroad, and create opportunities for future projects and career advancement.

ACUHO-I is currently undertaking a significant project to explore the future of residential accommodation in the United States. In light of the Universities Accord in Australia and the implementation of the Housing Code in New Zealand, it is crucial to learn how members of this international organization are strengthening the industry, building stronger workforces, fostering collaboration, creating inclusive residences, and improving academic and wellbeing outcomes for students.

The conference agenda for 2024, as published on their website, includes specialised workshops and educational sessions. I anticipate that the 2025 conference will offer equally compelling content, providing a great opportunity to develop my skills and understanding of the field from a different perspective. I look forward to bringing new ideas and information back to share with APSAA members.

The 2023 APSAA Member survey highlighted two pivotal areas — staff wellbeing and retention — that align with the findings of the Phase II Discovery Report on the ACUHO-I website. It is fascinating that, despite the geographical distance, the challenges we face in this industry are remarkably similar. Additionally, the Discovery Report emphasizes the importance of student well-being, reinforcing their commitment to this area. Student well-being is a priority for residential accommodation providers in the APSAA region, as demonstrated by findings of the survey indicating strong student engagement and support.

There is a wealth of information available on the APSAA website, presenting a valuable opportunity to mine and summarize insights for our members. Sharing these insights at the conference with our American colleagues can contribute to a broader understanding of how to effectively address these universal issues.

We approach things differently in the Asia Pacific region out of necessity. We are part of a global society, living in a very multicultural population. We strive for inclusiveness and openness; however, our region increasingly reflects the right-wing agenda becoming more prevalent in the northern hemisphere. The United States is a land of growing societal conflict and division and socio-economic disparity. In contrast, ACUHO-I champions inclusivity, consumer-centeredness, strong and supported workforces, and research-driven planning. So, how do they achieve this? How do they provide inclusive accommodations, meet the needs of numerous students in large facilities, and maintain a workforce committed to professional development—all while navigating a country with significant needs and limited funding, promoting innovative ideas, in an often-adversarial environment? This is what I hope to bring back from a US-centric conference to share with APSAA members.

We need to future-proof our accommodations, with an eye on flexibility for unknown future contexts. The US is often at the cutting edge of everything. It is difficult to say what I might learn from a conference that will happen in 6 months’ time. The world will be different, and the political contexts both the US and Australia operate in are changing. But I am certain that whatever it is I do learn will be very valuable and very pertinent to APSAA and all its members.”

Celebrating are APSAA Vice President Simone Gallo, Tamara with her trophies and APSAA President Jacob Waitere.

Fred Johnson Award for Best practice/ Professional achievement in Aotearoa

Andrea Schoorl, University of Canterbury

Fred Johnson was the Principal of University Hall at UC from the mid-90s until his sudden death at age 60 in 2001. Fred oversaw the new build and expansion of University Hall which opened in 1998 and set up a more community based residential experience that halls of residence are renowned for today.

Andrea’s response to receiving this award: “It is an honour and a privilege to be the recipient of the Fred Johnson Award. It has a personal connection for me working alongside the hall that Fred was such a big part of.”

Andrea has worked at the University of Canterbury for over 35 years in several roles, but for the past 15+ years has been integral member of the Accommodation Services team. Her title is Senior Accommodation Advisor, which does not cover the breadth of her responsibilities. The University of Canterbury team says they would be lost without her knowledge and expertise but also her studentcentred approach in all that she does.

Andrea is responsible for all promotional materials including the website and the Accommodation Guide, which is refreshed every year to include updated photos, videos, 360-degree walkthroughs and student profiles. As part of the application cycle, Andrea reviews and makes any changes required to the accommodation application portal and works with the halls to prepare for each application round.

Along UC’s four accommodation providers, Andrea connects with various UC teams such as Future Students, Global Engagement, UC International College (UCIC), and Scholarships to understand their future accommodation demands and to align these to the application process.

Andrea communicates with other tertiary accommodation teams to align key dates, the Common Confidential Reference Form (CCRF), and discuss topics of common interest across universities in Aotearoa.

This year she coordinated with Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington to include the date a student applied for a CCRF to be added to the data. This helped to advocate for students whose forms were delayed but also provided additional information to the team to assist with student enquiries.

She is a dedicated strong advocate for students, problem solving to help them navigate the journey to be easier, either using technology or simple language and concise forms.

When Andrea started in her role, she was one of two staff, with a system that was completely paper based. Over her time in the team, she has moved the application process to an online web-based system. This was no mean feat with paper copies of applications, references in a multitude of different formats received by mail, and applicants could pick up to six hall preferences. This meant the application was moved manually and physically from hall to hall.

With two versions of StarRez to data match and a separate application process for scholarships, a Robotic Process Automation

(RPA) system was introduced in 2020, designed to help reduce the amount of manual handling of applications and CCRFs and bring together information into one place. Andrea was essential to mapping and developing the RPA process.

The original RPA process included:

• Payment processing of the application fee

• Import of the Common Confidential Reference Form (CCRF) from the centralised database into StarRez

• Reverse transfer of data from UniLodge’s version of StarRez to UC’s version of StarRez.

The business case for the RPA outlined business benefits of automating the student accommodation application process, with estimated time savings between 469 – 619 hours.

New processes have been introduced in 2023 for the 2024 accommodation cycle.

• Prioritisation process to create a ranking based on criteria such as citizenship, location, scholarship, Māori or Pacific, medical, accessibility needs, age, degrees and majors unique to UC.

• Process for importing scholarships awarded into StarRez to assist halls with their selection process.

With the introduction of the RPA process, we estimate a savings made up as below (the time saved is over four times that originally expected):

With the improvements to the system, collecting and analysing demand and demographic data has greatly improved. This data has been used in demand forecasting and for the business cases for future residential developments.

APSAA President Jacob Waitere presenting Andrea Schoorl with the Fred Johnson Award.

2024 APSAA Confrence wrap

Whiria te Tāngata | Weaving the people together

Fran O’Brien Award for New Professionals

Monique Watts, Australian Catholic University

Monique considers herself to have been fortunate to have worked in the higher education sector for several years, interacting with students at various stages in their university journey. She holds an undergraduate degree in Human Nutrition, and she is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration. Since December 2022, she has had the pleasure of working within the student accommodation sector and enjoying every aspect of the experience. Her passion for this field was sparked by her own experiences with student accommodation during her undergraduate years, inspiring her to make a positive impact on students' lives.

In her current role as the Accommodation Coordinator for ACU’s Canberra campus, Monique is responsible for a range of duties, including overseeing an engaging Residential Life program, processing occupancy fee payments, managing residential maintenance, as well as handling sales, budgeting and forecasting. She leads a team of six Residential Advisors (RAs) who are crucial to student retention and satisfaction. Recognising the importance of their role, she begins recruiting early in the year to ensure ample time for training and development before the bulk of residents move in.

Additionally, she chairs the Residential Care working group for the ACT Tertiary Education Provider Suicide Prevention Group (TEP), in collaboration with the ACT Government, with the aim of reducing suicide and making mental health support more accessible for residential students. She is also a member of the University Drug and Alcohol Network committee, led by the Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association ACT (ADOTA), which focuses on reducing drug-related harm. Additionally, she serves as a Safety Support Officer for ACU, supporting students with disclosures of domestic, family, and sexual violence.

A significant and fulfilling part of her role includes travelling interstate to engage with students who are often the first in their families to attend university, Indigenous students, students from regional and remote areas, and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds. This aspect of her job is incredibly valuable, as it allows her to demonstrate to students that they have limitless potential and opportunities.

Monique’s goal has always been to make a meaningful impact on the lives of university students. Since joining the industry, she has led various initiatives that have significantly enhanced the student experience for residents.

As a qualified nutritionist, Monique is passionate about the impact of diet on overall wellbeing. Acknowledging that many of the residents are moving out of their family homes for the first time and have limited cooking experience, she established a cooking club and wrote a recipe book. The book emphasises simplicity, efficiency, and budget-friendliness. The cooking classes, which cover essentials such as safe cutting techniques, using an oven, boiling water, and food hygiene, have received overwhelmingly positive feedback. The club not only teaches essential culinary skills to students, but also fosters a sense of community and proves that preparing delicious and nutritious meals can be quick and inexpensive.

Recognising the importance of a balanced diet on student wellbeing, Monique implemented "Fresh Fruit Friday," where residents can pick up a free piece of fruit from the front reception every Friday. This initiative has been so popular that during higher stress periods, it is offered daily. This also provides an opportunity for casual check-ins and engagement with the students, allowing for the identification of any immediate mental health concerns.

In 2023, Monique participated in interstate marketing expos, engaging with regional and remote students about their university and accommodation options. This effort resulted in 61% of the 2024 Canberra residential cohort coming from regional or remote backgrounds. Notably, she directly recruited one student during a trip to Wagga Wagga. As a regional student herself, this representation is especially significant, aligning with the goals of the University Accord.

Monique says “In our first and second years of operation, we achieved a 97.6% occupancy rate, surpassing expectations, especially given the accommodation capacity doubled from 2022. This success was driven by persistent follow-up on marketing leads, social media outreach, direct calls to students, and communications with career advisors. Additionally, we achieved a 46% retention rate in our second year and 70% in our third year, reflecting the effectiveness of our Residential Life program and student satisfaction.

Students cooking in the residential communal kitchen

Monique with ACU Cooking Club students

In our first year of operation, we generated a surplus significantly higher than projected due to higher than expected occupancy rates and effective expenditure management. We anticipate another significant surplus in 2024, once again exceeding initial predictions. I am also currently exploring alternative revenue streams, such as selling linen and kitchen packs and merchandise. These initiatives not only generate additional revenue but also offer an extra service to the residents.

I developed a database of affordable accommodation options, which has been instrumental in retaining vulnerable students who might otherwise have dropped out of their course. This database includes accommodation options that are either free or cost less than $20.00 per night. In an era where 'placement poverty' is prevalent, this support is crucial. Work is ongoing to finalise documentation regarding support services available for students on placement.

The introduction of on-campus student accommodation has significantly enhanced the dynamics of the Canberra campus. Collaboration with Student Life and Campus Ministry has been outstanding, with residents comprising up to 50% of overall campus event attendance.

Shortly after commencing my role, I noticed many residential students spending significant amounts of money on Uber Eats. Partnering with our on-site café, I organised for frozen meals to be delivered to students for under $10.00 a meal. Using my skills as a nutritionist, I collaborated with the head chef to develop

Joe Massingham Award and Life Membership

Marion Grey

APSAA Immediate Past President (2020-23); current Chair Finance & Risk Committee and Board member 2016 to present; Marion Grey was recognised with two awards at the 2024 APSAA Awards dinner.

The Joe Massingham Award for Meritorious Service for her for long and valuable service to the advancement of the Association and for giving of her time selflessly to advance our sector; and Life Membership of the Association –in recognition of her time as Chair, and participation in the action plan to address gender base violence in higher education.

With over 15 years of experience in senior leadership roles in both the hospitality and higher education sectors, Marion has been fortunate to lead highly motivated and dynamic teams to achieve success through operational excellence and outstanding service delivery. Currently

a menu that is delicious and nutritious. This initiative has increased the café's viability, residential satisfaction, reduced students' external food delivery expenses, and led to 84% of our residential students utilising the café services. The increased demand of the café has also created an employment opportunity for one of the residents.”

serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Deakin Residential Services, Marion is responsible for the effective management and delivery of an integrated on and off campus accommodation service for students at Deakin University’s four physical campuses in Australia.

Marion’s achievements are born out of curiosity and a desire for continuous improvement with her passion for people culminating in community building, enhancing the student experience and supporting the success of her team.

Marion has also served as faculty for the Global Housing Training Institute both in the UK and Australia.

Attending a marketing trip in regional NSW

Marion Grey accepting her dual awards at the 2024 awards dinner in Auckland.

Monique with the Fran O’Brien trophies.

2024 APSAA Confrence wrap

Whiria te Tāngata | Weaving the people together

Excellence in Customer Service

University of Southern Queensland

The University recognises that occasions may arise in which students find they are unable to finalise their financial commitment to the university by the payment due date. The financial success of our residents is important to the team –acknowledging the student lifecycle and that students can at times be ‘in need’ of financial support, the Residential Colleges adopted a six-stage debt management process.

In 2023, the internal Debt Management Guidelines were reviewed to ensure that adequate supports were included at each step of the process. This included reviewing all finance related email and communication templates, with easy access to Fee Extensions and support for residents at every stage of the process.

A summary of the updated service offerings is included below:

Finance education

Finance education phone calls and meetings are undertaken, at the early stage, to discuss individual circumstances, fee extension options and referral services, as needed. Meetings also aim to prepare and empower residents to take control of their rental history. Residents were able to connect with staff and feel supported through the process.

Further, finance education was also integrated into in-person welcome inductions and into the Res PALS (new resident transition program).

Wrap-around supports

Debt activities include the Student Advisor (Wellbeing), based at Residential Colleges, to assist in providing additional support referrals and access to personal counselling and budgeting supports.

The Collegiate team (senior student leaders) are also included in the later stages, to ensure a holistic wellbeing process is maintained and ensure they can respond appropriately should the need arise outside of business hours.

Extension of time to pay

We recognise the peaks and troughs of financial stability, particularly for international students when paying university tuition. The provision of an extension of time for a student to pay their fees is a service provided to support students in individual circumstances.

Scholarships

Recognising the rise in cost-of-living pressures and many residents struggling with financial security, the Residential Colleges provided $1.5M in scholarships to support all residents staying on campus, allowing residents to continue accessing higher education and supports.

Additional financial relief options

The following opportunities were also available to our residents:

• Proactive graduate transition support – providing information to prepare residents for life after Colleges and ensure they are adequately planning for financial success. This includes a personalised phone call and meeting, as required.

• Upcycle storage project – following COVID-19, excessive amounts of luggage and belongings from former residents was located throughout our storage rooms. An extensive search to locate previous owners, etc. was undertaken and following this, current residents were provided the opportunity to upcycle an estimated 4.6t of items.

Joseph Roberson with the award on behalf of UniSQ flanked by APSAA Vice-President Simone Gallo and President Jacob Waitere.

• UniSQ Student Guild provide a weekly food pantry to all students.

• The Wellbeing Model of Care was also implemented to ensure a trauma informed and holistic wellbeing service offered to our residents.

Benefits

In 2023, 914 overdue fee notices were issued to residents with 70% of these in the first half of the year, prior to the updated Debt Management Guidelines. These guidelines provided a proactive, educational, and supportive approach to student finances, seeing a significant reduction in debtor notices issued to residents and an increase in fees understanding. This improved approach to student’s financial wellbeing was achieved by:

• Issuing a fees reminder email to outstanding accounts 1 day after the due date, following feedback that residents were using the official overdue notice as reminder to pay.

• The Senior Systems and Accounts Officer provided an initial touch point call for first time overdue residents.

• Overdue notice meetings were initiated with the Manager (Residential Life) to further support the resident in their individual circumstances and offer available supports – 76 individual financial education meetings were held with residents in 2023.

• Proactive accounts and financial wellbeing education sessions were integrated into Res PALS and the residential inductions. These sessions included rental history information, helping residents prepare for future rental success.

• The increased support options available in the email correspondence and through the above actions resulted in 91 fee extension requests in 2023, compared with 75 in 2022.

The chart below illustrates the volume of debt notices for each fortnight billing period.

Of note, the first six months of 2023 saw 150 Final Notices and 77 Intentions to Terminate notices issued to residents

The same period in 2024 (post implementation) resulted in 42 Final Notices and 0 Intentions to Terminate.

This is a direct result of the holistic approach to supporting students’ individual financial situations. In addition to the lowered number of notices issued, the staff time and related costs have decreased.

Significant work was also undertaken to reduce historical debts and credits on residential student accounts. During 2023, historic credits were reduced by 96% and historic debt was reduced by 85%.

Further, the residential scholarships provided increased financial security, enabling ongoing access to higher education. Below are some statements received relating to the scholarship program via our End of Year Survey:

“Helped me to focus on my studies.”

“Without the scholarship, the cost of living, would have made it very difficult to live in Toowoomba.”

“I got to have extra money to spend on food and other necessities.”

“If I didn’t receive the scholarship, I would still have studied, but potentially at [another university].”

2024 APSAA Confrence wrap

Whiria te Tāngata | Weaving the people together

Excellence in Facility Development or Management Award

University of Auckland

Carlaw Park Student Village 3, is a 26,530sqm, 907 bedroom Student accommodation for the University of Auckland which follows on the success in Stages 1 and 2 that have been operating from 2014. With the addition of 907 student rooms on 5,441sqm site, the three stages collectively offer a high-quality student apartment living experience for 1600 students. This village style accommodation encourages a strong sense of community in what is fast becoming a significant University accommodation hub. The campus consists of self-contained apartments with communal lounges, study spaces and amenities for all students.

The building’s fully enclosed courtyard provides a social area for student gatherings away from the busy city setting. The exterior apartments benefit from quality views of the Domain, the Port and University city scape. Its façade palette of glass and decorative precast concrete panels creates a bold and complimentary aesthetic within an urban and natural context.

Stuart McCutcheon House (Carlaw Park Student Village stage 3) includes 24/7 Reception, 10 full time professional staff & 30 Resident Advisors. The Lease Agreement was formed in 2019, with the residence opening February 2023.

In terms of floor area efficiency, the 5 bedroom per apartment layout is considered exceptionally high. The density ratio is considered favourable due to it being a 10-story building.

• Water consumption is controlled with smart water heating units and flow restriction tapware. Electrical features include LED lighting throughout and smart lights that allow low, medium and high-power options.

• Heating & cooling uses efficient heat pump systems with roof top VRF units that operate based on demand. Fresh air ventilation is supplied to preserve acoustics, with extracts to bathrooms and kitchens. Opening windows provides additional passive temperature control.

• Acoustics requirements specified by the University exceed building code requirements for exterior walls, inter tenancy walls and to each individual bedroom space.

• Security from the card-controlled Salto Locking System provides safe and easy access through the main entry, apartments and specific

bedroom doors. Complimented with a comprehensive CCTV network around the perimeter of the building.

• Transportation options are excellent, with a short walk to the main University Campus, the Parnell train station approximately 300m away and nearby bus stops and cycle ways.

• Construction waste achieved a 70% recycling rate. Plasterboard achieved close to a 100% recycling rate for no additional fee charged. The arrangement reached with the installer, Global Linings, saw all plasterboard delivered and waste removed by them in a controlled format. Achieving the goals of sustainability and efficient site management without incurring any additional economic costs.

• Extensive consultation with students helped with the incorporation of new design elements including cinema rooms, gaming areas, retail, communal kitchens, music rooms, e-bike storage, study and artistic spaces. Acoustic sound proofing was designed to create an urban oasis, despite being in close proximity to a motorway entrance.

Following students’ first years at University there is a need to migrate to private flatting, as often the inner-city infrastructure is not sufficient to support the higher volume of students needing accommodation during the term. The self-contained Carlaw model allows students to gain flatting experience while living in a fully furnished apartment with none of the challenges associated with sourcing beds, furniture or whiteware. This allows the students’ ability to budget on a fixed weekly cost inclusive of power, water and internet.

In addition to the student amenities listed above, the University also specified many features that exceeded normal building code requirements to provide a highquality student living experience.

The neighbouring Parnell community has also benefitted from the 24/7 nature of our business, with the addition of a retail space, offering light grocery, heat & eat, and café

options to both students and public, and support from our Night Team who oversee these properties after hours which increases security for our immediate neighbours.

The new model used in the village also provides additional accommodation capacity in the city centre for sporting events and conferences during peak summer season – with 50% of residents vacating their apartments during this time and the revenue used to subsidise the cost for students.

The development of this new accommodation facility is designed to provide students with a world standard education experience, which in turn helps to develop our international reputation and to ensure we remain competitive in the global market. The addition of 907 rooms brings the university closer to its target of 7,500 beds which will allows us to house around 16% of our current student population and helps improve access to tertiary education for the domestic market as well.

Since opening, Stuart McCutcheon House has remained at 99.5% occupancy, with a significant waitlist of students still eager to move in as spaces become available through withdrawals. This has reinforced the position on students need to be closer to campus in safe, secure and affordable accommodation options.

A number of the older villas in Mt Eden, Parnell and Grafton suburbs have been sold to owner occupiers who have renovated them to become their family home. As a result, it has become increasingly hard to get a student flat close to university in recent years. This new development is designed to address the undersupply of good quality student flats within walking distance of the University of Auckland. We believe the project has achieved this objective at a standard beyond anything built to date.

A key takeaway on this project is the concept of delivering the best product for the intended use. There are so many variables in terms of land cost, leasing costs, building cost, materials selection, maintenance, operations, student satisfaction, aesthetics, future proofing, etc. So how do you deliver the best mix and not be driven to optimise one at the expense of another. Reidy & Co along spent two years working with the University planning and then designing a building in the hope of optimising these requirements, knowing that if they were not optimised, we may never get the chance to construct it, and risk not having the chance to repeat the process in the future

2024 APSAA Confrence wrap

Whiria te Tāngata | Weaving the people together

Excellence in Marketing and Communications Award

University of Auckland

University accommodation professionals know that on campus housing is about providing much more than just a bed. Through dedicated residential teams and campus wide support systems, our accommodations provide a once-in-alifetime experience where residents have the freedom and security to discover themselves.

Yet, in the face of a cost-of-living crisis and worsening housing markets, current and prospective residents are wary that the cost of living on campus is worth it. It can be difficult to see that these accommodations provide much more than just housing, and it is in this context that marketing campaigns play a crucial role.

Background

Following a three-year working relationship with an external ad agency, we boldly brought the annual recruitment campaign in-house for creative development by the Communications and Marketing team. This was a departure from the University of Auckland’s triedand-tested approach of working with the external ad agency and required special permission from senior university leadership. The previous ad campaign featured 100 reasons to live on campus. While a solid campaign, it focused on selling Accommodation as a product over an experience. The agency did not integrate resident voice, which became clear in the final product as the residents were photographed with no connection to the creative or mission behind it.

For the 2024 recruitment campaign, our small team set out to create a highly personal campaign that would meet recruitment goals and align with University values and branding.

Campaign Benchmarks

Understanding our audience

• Students entering university after the COVID-19 pandemic missed out on key high school experiences.

• Too often, students must resort to living in mouldy, unsafe flats far from the City Centre.

• Results of a survey to in-room students revealed they live on-campus because of the location, convenience and for their social lives.

Manaakitanga

• The process of showing hospitality, kindess and support

• Focus on an experience pitch, not a sales pitch.

• Our residents’ matter to us and the University values how they shape our Accommodation.

• Intentionally inclusive of students from diverse backgrounds, especially Māori and Pacific students.

Advertising landscape

• Competing against large universities and business campaigns.

• Step away from common marketing tactics of selling how a provider can support the consumer, but instead focus on how the consumer can impact the provider for their own benefit.

Campaign Creative

The campaign creative needed to reflect that Ngā Wharenoho, Accommodation is a place for residents to be and find themselves for the benefit of the whole community. If we celebrate individuality, we empower the whole.

With this knowledge at the forefront, we created our 2024 recruitment creative concept: Bring your [most prized possession]. We’ll sort the rest.

All that’s missing is you.

Each ad featured a current resident in their on-campus room. We worked with eight residents selected from over 100 applications received in a two-week application period.

Goals & results

The 2024 recruitment campaign ran from late July 2023 to mid-February 2024. It was primarily a digital campaign through social media, website in-feed ads and Google search, with some print ads on bus shelters and decals on the University’s campus.

We targeted three key audience groups:

• 17-19-year-old school leavers

• 19-25-year-old university students

• 35-54-year-old parents and school careers counsellors

At the onset, we identified two sets of goals – campaign performance and applications.

Application goals:

Our overarching goal has been to return to pre-pandemic recruitment numbers. While this partly relies on general university recruitment, we needed to ensure that by move-in day 2024, we reached an occupancy rate of 98.4%.

Within the first five weeks of the campaign, applications rose by 1,000 per week, well above the previous year’s metrics. By the early application deadline, we surpassed our goal of 6,000 applications. By February 2024, we received over 8,000 applications.

On move-in day, we reached a 99% occupancy rate across all catered and self-catered residences. This is the highest occupancy rate we’ve reached since 2019.

Our campaign also featured dual-language collateral in Samoan and te reo Māori. This targeted Pacific and Māori students to exemplify that Ngā Wharenoho, Accommodation values their experience living with us. Applications increased by 273% in applications for Māori students and 113% for Pacific students.

We received the highest-ever number of applications from returning residents – 2,006. This is partly due to a simultaneous campaign targeted at in-room residents, but anecdotal

evidence suggests that this recruitment campaign spoke to them. It exemplified that they could experience the support of living on campus for their whole degree.

Outcomes

This campaign was well-received by current and prospective students, many seeing themselves represented broadly in the campaign. In creating the 2025 campaign collateral based on the same creative, new resident models shared the campaign’s impact on them last year.

Many students we spoke to were touched by the highly personal nature of the ad. They could do exactly what we had hoped – insert themselves into each piece of creative. This impacted our growth in application numbers, especially from Māori and Pacific students.

Professionally, we hope our approach to this campaign has a positive impact within and outside of the University of Auckland. We’ve shown that marketing and design staff can develop a national ad campaign that meets KPIs and supports the Accommodation mission. Forging strong relationships can give way to creative work outside of an organisation’s usual way of working.

Our hope is that this campaign will serve as an example of how to centre your target audience in a meaningful way. Marketing can meet business

needs while still telling a human and inclusive story. It can speak to an audience in new and creative ways that don’t rely on selling a product.

Learnings

The translated collateral had a great impact on application numbers from Māori and Pacific students. However, the te reo Māori translations were difficult to obtain as the concept behind the campaign focused on a Pākehā, European New Zealander perspective. Future campaigns will seek counsel from our Campus Life Kaiārahi at an earlier stage.

Conclusion

We are incredibly proud of this campaign as the first large recruitment campaign the University of Auckland has creatively developed in-house. It was only possible due to the strong relationships built between several university departments, care for our residential experience, and existing expertise among marketing and communications staff.

We hope it will exemplify how leaning on staff passion and expertise can lead to highly successful and compelling work.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

Sixtine Berquist, Campaigns Marketing Manager, Emily Taylor, Creative Lead, Stephanie Harris, Accommodation Solutions Manager, Aimee MacAskill, Associate Director, Accommodation, Te Papa Manawa Ora, Campus Life, University of Auckland.

2024 APSAA Confrence wrap

Whiria te Tāngata | Weaving the people together

Excellence in Student Experience

University of Auckland

He Ara Whiria – the path that is woven.

Accommodation Tauira & Pasifika Community initiatives

The University of Auckland is located in Aotearoa New Zealand, a place of extraordinary beauty and diversity, where Māori are tangata whenua (original owners of the land). From here, we reach out to the Pacific, to Asia and the World. Our enduring relationship with tangata whenua is based upon Te Tiriti o Waitangi, an essential part of our distinctiveness, and a key component of the University’s vision 2030 and strategic plan 2025.

Our Tauira community initiative has been developing and enriching our community since 2021, and we are now in our second year with our Pasifika community initiative. At a base level these two accommodation driven initiatives allow for Tauira Maori & Pasifika students to live together in a supportive academic environment grounded in their individual cultural values and identities. While simplistic in idea, it is more than just students applying to live and being placed together on a floor or building.

Shared experiences strengthen proactive communities of learning, so our teams must intentionally connect with our kaimahi | residents & their whānau | family before they move in to build the foundation for the year ahead. Working with carefully selected Resident Advisers, the team ensure that we have an interwoven and collaborative approach to the engagement we provide to and alongside these communities, above what is traditionally offered in our engagement plan, with a student led & accommodation guided approach. These initiatives include:

• Engaging residents with a culturally minded & student led orientation experience, welcome powhiri, matariki, kai, te wiki o te reo Māori, Pacific Language weeks, & manawa mai.

• Provide residents in these communities with proactive opportunities to navigate academic and leadership success through strategic study support in collaboration with PVC Maori, PVC Pacifica & Tepapamanaaki & Equity offices.

• Establish Kaupapa (principal or policy) with the residents of these communities that speak to the journey they are on, the values that they bring from their communities and deepens the commitment to each other within their home spaces. (These principles do not supersede residential rules but do allow for a better understanding of the expectations we have of each other).

Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini – Success is not the work of an individual, but the work of many.

The University of Auckland is committed to positively impacting society, and we approach this in ways consistent with our emerging Waipapa framework.

Our fundamental principles reflect our foundational relationship with tangata whenua and our commitment to Te Tiriti.

Manaakitanga – Caring for those around us in the way we relate to each other.

Whanaungatanga – Recognising the importance of kinship and lasting relationships.

Kaitiakitanga – Valuing stewardship and guardianship and our relationship with the natural world.

With a focus on improving well-being within our accommodation, interventions are dependent on, among other things, the human sense of connectedness. Unique indigenous approaches to well-being, such as hauora, which encompass a holistic understanding of health & well-being, facilitates creative ways of delivering initiatives to meet this need.

UoA Accommodation has continued to enhance our specialised accommodation offerings as we look to understand the ever-

changing needs of our students. We have been offering alcohol free floors, along with single gender floors/pods/apartments as requested for well over 20 years. We are in our third year of our Rainbow inclusive pod initiative at O'Rorke Hall which offer 5-7 students (per pod) a safer, inclusive and welcoming space for LGBTQITakatapui+ and allies alike.

Our Tauira & Pasifka communities have been developed because of our Tauira and Pasifika asking for support in a way that speaks to how they have been brought up, how they interact with each other, and what is authentic to them in a living environment. The challenge of creating a sense of belonging in large communities means we need to consider how we can scale down into micro communities within them and create experiences that resonate with these students. It also serves to demystify the perception that student accommodation is only catered to and available for those from a privileged background.

Whaowhia te kete mātauranga – Fill the basket of knowledge Student Feedback and Satisfaction Surveys & Engagement Levels

Through our Resident Satisfaction survey, our Tauira & Pasifika resident satisfaction survey, Study Fono survey & Resident Engagement tracking for all events – in particular those curated by our Tauira & Pasifka communities, we have been able to see a significant increase

APSAA President Jacob Waitere presenting this award to Tara Baker & Stacey Morgan from the University of Auckland.

over the last 3 years (on average 10% increase) of those students engaging the curation of their space, the engagement within the community (give back) and a desire to promote these spaces broadly into their communities.

These students consistently provide valuable feedback to our teams which helps set us up for the upcoming year & express the desire to come back and support these spaces as mentors and Resident Advisors in their following year. This is particularly important as it reinforces and demonstrates the community values of Tautua | Service, Mana | Pride/Honor and Whanaungatanga.

Application & Retention Rates

We have seen a remarkable increase in applications for accommodation in the past year from Maori & Pacific students, driven from the marketing of these specialised community offerings. Our Schools & Community teams now have a targeted offering when working with groups of students who are attending university for the first time.

Resource Utilisation & Academic Performance

The University has been incredibly supportive with our communities and the collaboration we have with PVCM, PVCP, Campus Care, Equity & Scholarships. The focus on these equity groups has meant we have been able to secure university funding for 100 targeted Vaka & Waka Moana scholarships to be created to ease the financial burden of these students accessing accommodation (fully funded) in their first year. With this support, our team can focus in on the overall objective of supporting Maori & Pasifika

students to retain their scholarships by creating a consistent, dedicated space to live & study, which also provides a wrap-around support system and instils a level of accountability and expectation for them to do well.

Ko

ia

kāhore

nei i rapu, tē kitea –He who does not seek will not find

We use multiple student feedback mechanisms, our Residential Advisory Committee who meet with their Resident Managers and Head of Operations routinely throughout the year, active feedback/ check in’s during floor meetings at a peerto-peer level, and through our connections with the wider university group that we are actively a part of such as Student Services & Student Engagement Community of Practice, Runanga, Tuakana Network.

As living community that is unique, multifaceted, kaleidoscopic and diverse in character, it requires active participation from both staff and students to ensure that we are equally proactive and reactive to the changing needs throughout the year.

Key successes

From 2023 to 2024, we have had to expand the Tauira community from one floor to three floors due to the incredible efforts of those students who helped us create the Kaupapa in 2023 & the incredible support from our university to champion these initiatives.

• We have secured additional funding from PVCM to help subsidise costs as we develop new engagement events with our Tauira.

• Our Pasifika community came together, with the support of their families, to put on Fia Fia night of their own accord, inviting in our key faculty and students from across our residences, to share in their culture during Pacific language week. The pride on their families' faces was genuinely the greatest thing to witness.

• Development of the Matariki Sensory Experience, which has allowed the community to celebrate a significant part of their culture and showcase it to the wider university.

• Purchasing our own kai cooker (aboveground hangi), which allows us to use kai | food as an educational opportunity for our residents across accommodation, as well as saving costs for the university.

• The creation of the RA cultural portfolio, which extends leadership capabilities and adds additional benefit to those undertaking this student leadership position Whāia te mātauranga hei oranga mō koutou – Seek after learning for the sake of your wellbeing

Learnings/improvements

• Future improvement (aspirational): there is a real appetite from accommodation to see more second year scholarships available, as we identify that financial means continues to be a significant barrier.

• For continual improvement: we have active projects underway, overseen by our Residential Experience Officers, to identify how to continue the experience these communities have in the firstyear halls which is very engaged, into second year residences.

• For professional development: there is a need to expand on our cultural competency training for staff, which is in active development with our Kaiarahi for Campus Life.

• Exploring leadership opportunities and recognition for students within these spaces.

• Strengthen bonds our kaimahi provide within UoA, be conscious of te ao Māori & Pasifika principles and values throughout the year, not only as prompted by scheduled events.

2024 APSAA Confrence wrap

Whiria te Tāngata | Weaving the people together

Excellence in Sustainable Development Goals – Corporate

Scape Australia

EnviroScape – Renewable Electricity

Scape's commitment to sustainability aims to pave the way towards a greener future by transitioning to 100% renewable electricity.

In 2023, Scape signed a renewable electricity contract in partnership with Iberdrola and the Capital Wind farm highlighting a significant step in reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy usage. It will see all Scape buildings switch to 100% renewable electricity by 2026 at the latest.

By March 2024 approximately 40% of the electricity consumed in Scape’s 34 operational student accommodation buildings was supplied by renewable electricity. The electricity is supplied from the 140MW Capital Wind farm near the NSW/ACT border by Iberdrola – the world’s largest producer of wind power.

In partnership with Iberdrola, Scape will purchase both electricity and the associated Renewable Energy Certificates in proportion to electricity consumption.

Scape buys one certificate for every one MWh (megawatt-hour) of electricity consumed.

To demonstrate that the renewable attributes of Scape’s purchased electricity cannot be traded or claimed by anyone else, the renewable energy certificates are 'retired', taking them out of the electricity market by voluntarily surrendering them with the Clean Energy Regulator, a federal government body. This demonstrates that for the electricity that was consumed, no carbon emissions were created from its generation.

Each existing Scape asset will switch to renewable electricity upon the expiry of its existing asset specific existing electricity contract. The first expiry was in 2023, and the last is in 2026. Scape Merrivale was the first asset to switch to 100% renewable electricity on 1 December 2023.

At the end of 2023, about one quarter of Scape's annual electricity demand was supplied by 100% renewable electricity. The aim is to supply approximately 60% of Scape's electricity demand from renewable sources by the end of 2024, and over 80% by the end of 2025.

Scape's commitment to renewable electricity, demonstrably aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. The initiative directly addresses target 7.2, aiming to significantly increase the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.

But Scape's ambitions extend beyond themselves. They hope to inspire a domino effect of green choices, fuelling a friendly competition that benefits everyone.

Scape conducts an annual resident wellbeing survey which includes questions regarding resident’s perceptions of our environmental management process and transition to zero carbon.

In the 2023 survey they asked their residents a number of ESG related questions including: Do you think that Scape's buildings are energy efficient? (e.g. the lights switch off, the air conditioning is controlled, no unnecessary printing etc.). To which 89% of respondents said YES.

Scape is committed to transitioning to zero net carbon operation for all buildings, and their renewable electricity contract is a key part of that process. Scape’s investors, lenders, residents and other stakeholders increasingly expect Scape to play its part in combatting climate change. These stakeholder expectations, along with the desire to leave the world a better place are the main drivers for Scape entering a 100% renewable electricity contract.

The key learning from this project is that Scape was able to negotiate a 100% renewable electricity contract covering QLD, NSW and Victoria that was on par with existing costs of electricity but moved the organisation away from reliance on fossil fuels.

The key was to aggregate the whole portfolio into a single tender to the electricity market, to achieve economies of scale, combined with accepting a longer-term contract of 7 years (whereas previously we were on 1 year contracts). This was crucial to being able to cost-effectively switch to renewables and eliminate Scope 2 carbon emissions.

In essence, Scape's initiative stands as an outstanding example of marrying sustainability with sound business practices. It demonstrates the power of stakeholder engagement, innovative contracting, and a long-term vision for a greener future.

APSAA President Jacob Waitere with Scape representatives

Excellence in Sustainable Development Goals – College

Mannix College

Mannix College’s innovative food and organic waste disposal project, developed in 2023 in partnership with Monash City Council, effectively showcases a strong commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Facing significant challenges in managing the dining hall's food waste, the college overhauled its waste management practices in mid-2023. By negotiating our participation in Monash City Council’s Food Waste Recycling Program, the college was able to install organic waste bins, which are then emptied into Councilserviced Food and Garden Waste bins. Monash processes the waste locally, recycling it into valuable compost for Victorian gardens and farms. Begun as a pilot in 2023, this project is now fully operational and a permanent feature in the college’s sustainability strategy.

This initiative has diverted 9,600 kg of food waste from landfills to compost so far, significantly reducing the college’s carbon footprint and waste production, and promoting sustainable practices among over 300 students and 20 staff members who dine daily. It addresses SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 13: Climate Action, and SDG 15: Life on Land. By redirecting food waste from landfills to composting facilities, Mannix ensures that organic matter is repurposed into nutrient-rich compost, reducing waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse.

The project has significantly reduced the college’s carbon footprint. By diverting 9,600 kg of organic waste from landfills so far, the project has prevented 15.84 tCO2 equivalent emissions, which are projected annually to increase to 31.68 tCO2e, directly contributing to climate change mitigation. The project produces roughly 3,840 kg of nutrient-rich compost, enriching local gardens and farms, contributing to soil health and biodiversity, supporting sustainable agriculture, and preventing land degradation.

The project also aligns with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, fostering a strong collaboration between Mannix College and Monash City Council. This partnership exemplifies how local institutions can work together to achieve shared sustainability goals. Furthermore, the project has a strong educational component, engaging over 300 students and 20 staff members through campaigns, workshops, and training sessions.

A team of six students led the project, promoting awareness and proper waste segregation practices, and fostering a culture of sustainability within the college community. The active participation of students and staff underscores the project’s commitment to inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making, aligning with SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

Stakeholder satisfaction in Mannix College’s food and organic waste disposal project has been measured through various qualitative and quantitative methods, ensuring comprehensive feedback from all involved parties.

Surveys and Feedback Forms: Our end-ofyear survey and daily food service feedback forms have been distributed to students, faculty, and staff to gauge their satisfaction with the project, as well as food services overall. Key metrics from these surveys showed increased awareness and positive attitudes toward waste segregation practices.

Focus Groups and Workshops: In designing the project, we utilised groups and workshops for more detailed planning with the student-led Environment Committee who were leading the project. These sessions allowed stakeholders to express their opinions, share experiences, and suggest improvements. The feedback received was overwhelmingly positive, with participants expressing pride in contributing to the college’s sustainability efforts.

Participation Rates: Every person in the dining hall engaged with this program. At the end of their meal, they disposed of any uneaten organic matter into the green bins.

Audit Results: Monash City Council conducted random audits of the organic waste bins to assess the quality and contamination levels of the segregated waste. All audits were passed successfully, reflecting the diligence and cooperation of the college community. This compliance with waste management protocols indicated stakeholder buy-in and satisfaction with the process.

Qualitative Feedback: Qualitative feedback was gathered through informal conversations and meetings with student leaders and the resident population. This method allowed stakeholders to provide candid feedback, which was then used to make real-time adjustments to the project. Many students and staff members highlighted the project’s positive environmental impact and expressed a sense of accomplishment in contributing to a larger sustainability goal.

Awards and Recognition: The prestigious accolades received, such as the Diamond Award and the Residential Community Award from the Green Impact program, served as external validation of the project’s success. These awards boosted stakeholder morale and satisfaction, reinforcing the significance of their efforts. Monash City Council also published an article about the program.

Continuous Improvement: Stakeholder feedback has been integral to the project’s continuous improvement. Issues such as bin overflowing during the pilot phase were promptly addressed through collaboration with Monash City Council, ensuring the project remained on track and met stakeholders’ expectations. continued next page

2024 APSAA Confrence wrap

Whiria te Tāngata | Weaving the people together

Excellence in Sustainable Development Goals – College

Continued from previous page

The food and organic waste disposal project at Mannix College was driven by multiple objectives centred around sustainability, student leadership, environmental responsibility, and community engagement.

Environmental Stewardship: The primary driver was the college’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Before the project, daily food waste was measured, sometimes reaching 60kg even with our existing stringent reduction strategies. We weighed food waste for four weeks in semester 1, 2023, to understand the volume of organic waste generated by the dining hall. Our calculations revealed an annual production of 10 tonnes, which shocked us and compelled us to take immediate action. The college aimed to reduce its ecological footprint by implementing effective waste management practices. This included exploring options for chefs to be adaptable in their use of leftovers and allowing students to serve themselves portions they would eat without waste.

Student Leadership: Student leaders were central to the project's design and delivery. The six members of the Environment Committee worked closely with college management, developing employability skills and ensuring active student involvement.

Sustainable Development Goals: Another critical driver was alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Community Engagement and Education: Engaging the college community was key. The project aimed to educate and involve students, faculty, and staff in sustainable practices, fostering a culture of environmental consciousness.

Collaboration and Partnerships: The project demonstrated the power of collaboration and partnerships. By working closely with Monash City Council, the college leveraged external expertise and resources to achieve its sustainability goals.

Operational Efficiency: Another objective was improving operational efficiency in waste management. The project aimed to streamline waste disposal processes, reducing the burden on the college’s infrastructure and resources.

Recognition: While the project was not pursued for accolades, achieving prestigious awards such as the Diamond Award and the Residential Community Award from the Green Impact program has given our community a sense of pride as sustainability leaders. These accolades validated the project’s success and inspired continued efforts and ongoing improvements, reinforcing Mannix College’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

The food and organic waste disposal project at Mannix College has provided valuable lessons and opportunities for improvement that can enhance future sustainability initiatives.

Data Analytics and Monitoring: One key learning is the importance of leveraging data analytics to optimise waste management practices. By closely monitoring waste

generation patterns, contamination rates, and collection schedules, the college can make data-driven decisions to improve waste segregation and reduce overall waste. In 2024, we are weighing food waste weekly to track trends over time, which can inform menu design and potentially reduce waste further.

Infrastructure Improvements: The project highlighted the need for a robust infrastructure to support sustainability initiatives. During the pilot phase, bin overflowing was a challenge. Future projects should consider investing in scalable and flexible waste management infrastructure that can adapt to varying waste volumes. Additionally, distributing waste across more bins will reduce physical injury risks for those moving them.

Enhanced Partnerships: The collaboration with Monash City Council has been highly successful. Strengthening and expanding these partnerships can provide additional support and resources. Engaging with other local councils, sustainability organisations, and educational institutions can create a broader network for sharing best practices, joint initiatives, and resource pooling.

Leadership and Skill Development: The project underscored the importance of developing leadership and transferable skills among students. By involving students in project management, teamwork, and community outreach, the initiative not only achieved its sustainability goals but also equipped participants with valuable skills for their future careers. Formalising leadership training programs and providing mentorship opportunities can further enhance these benefits. Keeping students engaged with the program as it enters its next phase is a priority.

Courage to Take Action: Another key lesson is the importance of having the courage to take decisive action sooner. While the project was a big leap for our community and has been successful, we recognise that pursuing these initiatives earlier could have yielded even greater benefits. This insight motivates us to act more swiftly and boldly in future sustainability efforts.

Mannix College sustainability initiatives and students with the APSAA Excellence Award.

Student Accommodation Journal Writers Award

Elizabeth Koni, St Margaret’s College

Amember of the APSAA Communications and Engagement Committee, Elizabeth was involved in writing three of the most read articles in Student Accommodation from December 2023 to June 2024.

Excellence, Innovation and 180kg of gummy lollies later… a descriptive summary of the 2024 Brisbane Conference was published in the December 23 edition; Outside your comfort zone is where the magic happens, an article detailing College Leaders (RA) training at St Margaret’s College was part of the March 24 Journal.

Elizabeth also co-authored the article New Zealand's Pastoral Care Code of Practice: Reflections so far, with Johnny N'uu, Brooke Petre and Martin Thomas.

On receiving the award Liz has said “It was a surprise to receive the Writers Award for 2024, and lovely to be acknowledged for the contributions I’ve made to the APSAA journal over the past year. But the journal is totally a team effort and so in my mind, I’m really accepting this on behalf of the awesome team that I work with on the CAE committee. You’re all amazing and I love the work that we are doing!”.

My Favorite Student Best of Program Award

Jordan Knight, Grace College

Awarded on the basis of the best average of the scores from the responses collected at the end of each session at the 2024 Conference, Jordan’s presentation Thinking Differently: Embracing Neurodiversity within our Residences recieved the Best of Program Award.

Jordan’s lived experience and easy to understand graphics proved a winning combination in this strongly contested category.

Previous year’s conference presentations including this one are available to APSAA Members on the website here: https://www.apsaa.org.au/resources/pastconference-presentations/2024-conferencepresentations/

“Getting to share my lived and professional experience of neurodiversity at the 2024 APSAA Conference was an absolute privilege. I am immensely grateful to the association and my colleagues for the recognition and enthusiasm that has been shared surrounding my presentation – I am so excited to see what comes next!” Jordan Knight

Jordan receiving the Best of Program Award from APSAA Vice President Simone Gallo.

Elizabeth Koni with the Student Accommodation Journal Writers Award trophies.

Kate Hallam Residential Life and Learning Supervisor

Catharine Pruscino Program Manager, Respect.Now.Always.

Amber Loomis Senior Social Impact Practitioner

Elizabeth Kuo-Gollan Senior Internal Communication Project Advisor

Housing and safety under the one roof: A University of Technology Sydney case study

At UTS, we believe everyone has the right to live, study and work safely. As proud and active members of the Universities Australia Respect.Now.Always. (RNA) initiative, our sexual violence prevention program engages with more than 16,000 current and prospective students, staff and community members each year.

For the 720 students living on campus at Housing residence Yura Madang, the work of RNA is especially important, as their university represents not only their place to study, but also where they live. UTS is a metropolitan university – the UTS City Campus (and residence) is located in Sydney, Australia, at the southern gateway to the central business district.

Acknowledging the diversity and demography of our communities and how they engage with our institution, our latest research sought to answer one key question: ‘How can we create an environment free from sexual violence?’

Elevating Community Voice: A Roadmap for Sexual Violence Prevention and Response at UTS

Building on previous work centering UTS community perspectives on addressing sexual violence at UTS, the Community Voice project sought to explore what was working well about RNA at UTS and how this could be improved for the future. The Theory of Change provides a renewed roadmap

for UTS, leveraging the University’s community voice insights combined with existing evidence to outline what’s needed for UTS to effectively prevent and respond to sexual violence across our university community.

At a high level, the Theory of Change describes the external factors that shape prevention and response – including societal and cultural factors, the local and global higher education sectors and public policy enacted at state and national levels. It also includes what’s needed for an effective and embedded prevention ecosystem at UTS from well-tailored primary prevention though to compassionate, coordinated responses, and trauma-informed care.

The role of educational opportunities to build knowledge and capacity around consent, bystander intervention, and awareness about the RNA program was prominent in community narratives. In this, students and staff described the importance of engaging and responsive educational programs, reflecting the need and appetite for dynamic, relatable and accessible offerings.

With increased evidence about the importance of community-level research and intervention to improve how universities address sexual violence, this project offers one approach to developing a coordinated, whole-of-university roadmap.

Throughout the Community Voice research project, one thing was inherently clear: that addressing sexual violence is everyone’s business and responsibility.

For those who live and work in UTS Housing, this work looks collaborative, ongoing and reiterative.

UTS Housing and community safety under one roof

At Yura Madang, community safety is at the heart of all UTS Housing activities. From Book Club to the annual Residential Networker party, messaging around consent and respectful relationships are paramount, reinforced prominently through staff, posters, wristbands, t-shirts and merchandise that is freely and visibly available.

All Residential Networkers receive compulsory training in Sex, Safety and Respect, Ethical Bystander, Reporting, Consent and Mental Health First Aid, and all staff receive ongoing training in Consent, Reporting and Management of Disclosures, Sex, Safety and Respect. This is refreshed on an annual basis with new and returning Residential Networkers and Staff to ensure that training remains current and active.

Before students receive their keys, they must complete and pass the mandatory Consent Matters online training covering respectful behaviour and active bystander intervention.

And written in the UTS Housing Flat Agreement, there is a contractual requirement to create and promote a safe and respectful space, and to feel ‘secure against physical or emotional harm.’

Students and staff working or living in UTS Housing are supported through the Respect. Now. Always. Program that seeks to prevent sexual violence on campus. As a key stakeholder for the Program, UTS Housing are often invited into co-design initiatives to shape the future of the Program to ensure that it continues to meet community needs.

The deep, ongoing work with RNA and UTS Housing is evidenced in the latest national survey results, which reveal significantly lower rates of identifying residential colleges as impactful locations of sexual harassment.

In the 2021 National Student Safety Survey, 2.8% of UTS survey respondents identified ‘residential colleges or other type of student accommodation’ as a location of most impactful sexual harassment in a university context, compared to the national average of 10.6%.

Conclusion

Tackling sexual violence requires campuswide and whole-of-institution change. It requires a deep understanding of the key issues that affect community safety, including listening to our students and staff who have bravely shared their experiences. The Community Voice research project has revealed a series of lessons and recommendations, all of which involve a call to action for everyone in our community. Perhaps most importantly, this work reaffirms the role of community voice in an effective sexual violence prevention and response ecosystem, indicating that the way we approach this work is essential.

For our Housing residents, the relationship between UTS Housing and Respect.Now. Always. continues to be collaborative, open and inclusive, allowing the prevention work of RNA to be embedded across all Housing activities.

Every campus community and college is different – that’s why we need participatory co-designed Community Voice work. Ultimately, each university accommodation across Australia has its own distinct culture and context. As such, a locally contextualised community voice is essential in driving meaningful change and creating respectful communities where everyone thrives.

Read more:

https://www.uts.edu.au/sites/default/ files/2023-11/RNA-CommunityVoice-Theory-of-Change.pdf

https://www.uts.edu.au/sites/ default/files/2019-11/RNA_StrategicFramework-Report.pdf

https://www.uts.edu.au/sites/default/ files/article/downloads/RNA%20-%20 understanding%20the%20student%20 voice%20on%20sexual%20assault%20 and%20harassment%20report.pdf

Tackling sexual violence requires campus-wide and whole-of-institution change. It requires a deep understanding of the key issues that affect community safety, including listening to our students and staff who have bravely shared their experiences.

Stephen Peake Principal/CEO Emmanuel College, University of Queensland

Using a Relationship Framework: The University of Queensland and its affiliated residential colleges – one College’s perspective

The impending introduction of the Universities Accord and the associated regulation of accommodation providers in the tertiary education space has attracted significant attention across the sector this year. In addition, the release of the Education Ministers’ Action Plan Addressing Gender-based Violence in Higher Education has provided a focal point for accommodation providers, particularly in its Action 4 which anticipates “oversight, standard and accountability of … providers”1. One of the key points in Action 4 requires providers to “collaborate with the relevant higher education providers/s to align as far as possible their policies, processes and practices” to improve victim/survivors’ experience and integrate safety and support systems between institutions and accommodation providers.

By the time I took on the role of Principal/CEO at Emmanuel College in January 2020, a good deal of work had already been undertaken in the development of a relationships framework between the University of Queensland (UQ) and the ten independent affiliated residential colleges (the colleges) which are located on its St Lucia campus in Brisbane. While the drafters of the framework could not have anticipated the Action Plan 6 years later, the colleges and UQ could see benefits in re-framing the nature of their affiliation in a contemporary context. With histories as long as the University itself, and accommodating about 2800 students between them, the colleges and UQ have had generally successful relationships but noted the inevitable changes in approach which follow personnel and policy directions across more than 100 years.

Commencing work in 2018-19 and then picking up again postpandemic, UQ had appointed one of its senators, Anne Cross AM, to develop a framework in which all of the parties could work and relate to each other. After extensive consultation and revision, the final agreement was signed on 15 August 2022.

The benefit of this framework is that it works as a facilitator for relationships and interactions, and does so on multiple levels. Because we’re all striving for the wellbeing of our residents, this framework, founded on principles of trust and mutual respect, has been a cornerstone in fostering a thriving partnership between the colleges and UQ.

The Importance of Trust and Communication

Trust is essential in any successful partnership, and this has been particularly true in the time since the re-formalising of the Colleges’ relationship with UQ. We understand that trust must be earned and maintained through consistent, transparent, and respectful communication. The framework has ensured that channels of communication between the colleges and the university are not only open but also effective. Regular scheduled meetings between the parties are well observed and provide excellent forums for timely discussions and

I believe the Relationship Framework between UQ and its affiliated residential colleges has been a quiet, unassuming success. It has fostered a partnership based on trust, effective communication, and mutual respect, all aimed at achieving the best outcomes for our students.

collaborative decision-making, and have been instrumental in addressing challenges and seizing opportunities in a rapidly changing educational landscape. I’ve personally enjoyed the fact that these relationships have a real-ness to them; celebratory when things go well, and supportive when they don’t.

These meetings have importantly provided perspectives that otherwise might be lost and ensure that the needs and concerns of the colleges are understood and addressed at the highest levels of the university administration. This has significantly strengthened the relationship between the individual colleges and UQ, and hopefully over time, will lead to a more cohesive and aligned approach to student support and development. The Framework itself commits the parties to an annual meeting of college board chairs and Heads, along with the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor and other senior executives. This meeting is also a valuable contributor to the collective sense of the parties, and their shared missions.

A Dedicated Resource: A Game-Changer

A pivotal aspect of the Relationship Framework's success has been the appointment of a dedicated resource to act as a conduit between the colleges and the Vice-Chancellor of the university. This role, first held by Dep-Provost Professor Tim Dunne and currently by Dep-Provost Professor Pauline Ford, has been nothing short of a game-changer. Their leadership, commitment, and deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by the colleges have ensured that our voices are heard, and our concerns are addressed. More importantly (and this has certainly been observed at Emmanuel) we’ve discovered we can count on the university for support, should we need it.

Having the Dep-Provost on speed-dial has enabled a warm, collegial, and effective dialogue between the colleges and UQ, furthering the aims of the Relationship Framework. This role has been crucial in navigating complex issues, fostering mutual understanding, and perhaps underscores the fact that good communication, whilst we might all think we’re good at it, it requires ongoing effort, and in this case a dedicated resource.

Foundations of Goodwill and Respect

I can recall elements of discussions in relation to the framework with my Board chair and eventually my college’s full board discussions. There was a strong sense that it was being developed on the foundations of goodwill and respect, values that are reflected in all of the colleges in some form but enhanced by the integrity of the process we worked through. Both parties have committed to a partnership that prioritizes the well-being of students, who, in the case of the colleges, are also our residents. This shared commitment has continued to drive the continuous improvement of our residential environments and the overall student experience.

The framework also continues to inform us as we attempt to align the policies and practices of the colleges with those of UQ, ensuring a consistent and supportive environment for all students. This alignment will be crucial as we continue to tackle significant issues such as gendered violence and the implementation of the Universities Accord. This framework provides a solid foundation upon which we can all build further alignment of policies between accommodation providers and their respective tertiary institutions, setting a benchmark for best practices in student support and welfare.

Conclusion

I believe the Relationship Framework between UQ and its affiliated residential colleges has been a quiet, unassuming success. It has fostered a partnership based on trust, effective communication, and mutual respect, all aimed at achieving the best outcomes for our students. We’re currently working through some addendums to the original framework, again proving that adjustment to circumstances can also be built into such arrangements. As we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of higher education, this framework provides a robust and adaptable model for collaboration that I’m sure will continue to serve us well into the future.

References

1. Action Plan Addressing Gender-Based Violence in Higher Education (Education Ministers Meeting, 2024) https://www.education.gov.au/actionplan-addressing-genderbased-violence-highereducation/resources/action-plan-addressinggenderbased-violence-higher-education

Action Plan

Addressing Gender-based Violence in Higher Education

View the Action Plan Addressing GenderBased Violence in Higher Education (Education Ministers Meeting, 2024)

Gibson Campus Life Coordinator, Deakin Residential Services, APSAA Communication and Engagement Committee member.

Elizabeth Koni Head of St Margarets College, Dunedin NZ, APSAA Communication and Engagement Committee member

Campus Home. LIVE! 2024 ACHUO-I Conference

APSAA Award recipients Rachel Gibson and Elizabeth Koni report back from the 2024 ACHUO-I Conference, discussing the highlights, learnings and how the experience broadened their horizons.

The Study Tour

What inspired you to sign up for the Study Tour?

Liz: To be honest, I was a little nervous about the idea of the Study tour; it added five days pre-conference and was with a small group of strangers living and learning together each day. However, given that I was travelling halfway across the globe for the conference, I felt that I should make the most of the opportunity. And I am so glad that I did! The Study tour was an incredible experience; from visiting four

university campuses (accommodation and other facilities) across Wisconsin, to making new connections with housing professionals, to getting to know the other tour participants, and everything in-between, it was an unforgettable experience. By the time we arrived back in Milwaukee for the conference, we had become really close and this provided lots more opportunities – and fun – once the conference was underway.

Rach: I have always enjoyed going to the study tours with APSAA and wanted to get the most out of the experience of attending ACHUO-I. Not to mention, because I was travelling to literally the other side of the world, I wanted to really broaden my horizons and understanding when it came to student accommodation. It was the best decision and an unforgettable experience. Sharing an experience with other like-minded people in the student accommodation field across the world, not only

opened my eyes to so much more possibility but also forged bonds and connection that will live long passed the completion of the study tour.

What was the highlight of the tour for you?

Liz: So many highlights! Visiting the University of Wisconsin, Madison campus was incredible. The physical environment was amazing and the scale of operations was beyond impressive – it made me want to go back to Uni or change life course and become a football coach! More than that though, the real highlight was meeting and spending the days with an incredible group of people, who are all so passionate about student accommodation and who we had the opportunity day and night to get to know and learn from. The connections that I made with the other participants from all around the globe were amazing and our WhatsApp group messaging is still going strong!

Rachael

Rach: Oh wow! That is a hard one. But if I had to pick just one of the highlights of the tour, I would say when we visited the University of Wisconsin – Madison and took part in the first nations tour. The grounds and facilities at UoWM were impressive on its own and so very different to what we have on offer at our much smaller University, but the guided tour of the history of the first nations people, the recent finds of centuries old canoes and equipment right there on their doorstep was fascinating.

What was the greatest learning you took from the Study tour?

Liz: Visiting different universities and experiencing first-hand what it is like to live in residential accommodation in the States was a great way to learn about the similarities and differences across the student accommodation sector. Debating the merits (or otherwise) of shared rooms, enjoying a student meal plan, and visiting a wide range of accommodation options really reminded me of not only how important and valuable our work is, but also what is possible in the future!

Rach: Living like a student residing on campus really exposed us to what it is like for students in the United States moving into these student accommodation settings. Gratefully we did not have to share a bedroom, but we did have to share a dorm room with a buddy (Hi Sally). This generated considerable discussion amongst us and the facilitators at each of the Universities that we visited and how different parts of the world do things and why. It was wonderful to see though, that although we may do things differently across the world, the passion for supporting students is the same no matter where you go.

ACUHO-i Conference

Why did you choose to attend ACUHO-I 2024?

Liz: I definitely had it on the cards to attend ACUHO-I at some stage in the future, but it was receiving the New Professional award from APSAA which accelerated my attendance to 2024. I am very grateful for the support that APSAA provided which enabled me to attend the conference this year.

Rach: In 2023 at the APSAA awards, I heard the winner was announced for the New Professional Award and what they were receiving. I remember feeling inspired to want to try and achieve this and to be honest, a little jealous. I knew I wanted to develop my understanding and experience within the industry, and I spent the next 12 months working towards being someone, not only worthy of the award, but someone who would genuinely care and learn from the experience like the previous award recipients before me

What was the most valuable part of attending ACUHO-i for you?

Liz: Just like the Study Tour, the most valuable part of the conference was making new connections and learning about the experiences of others in our industry from across the globe. It was inspiring being with such a diverse group of participants, and learning about the many different and new initiatives that exist within the sector, and also being a part of conversations about what the future of student accommodation might look like.

Rach: Apart from the connections that were made, I would have to say the learning from the seminars. They were so abundant that we were spoilt for choice to the point where there would be a group of us dividing and conquering the seminars to compare notes afterwards because we couldn’t attend them all. From the diversity practices from state to state in what they can provide their residents to learning how AI is making its way mainstream into the industry.

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Study tour group at Marquette University, Milwaukee

Catching a Milwaukee Brewers baseball game on the last night of the conference

Study tour group at UW-Madison’s Camp Randall football stadium

Campus Home. LIVE! 2024 ACHUO-I Conference

Continued from previous page

What was the most interesting education session you attended and what did you take from it?

Liz: So many to choose from! I found the Generating New Best Practices with Generative AI session really interesting; it was great to see how it is being used in Res Life and what possibilities there are for the future. I also really enjoyed Kevin Conn’s session on Emotional Intelligence & Reflective Leadership. It focused on reflecting on your leadership practices as an emotionally intelligent practitioner and how this can strengthen your professional foundation. Finally, one of my favourite sessions was the general session where Megan

Gerhardt spoke about Mastering Gentelligence: Understanding and Leveraging Generational Diversity in the Workplace. Megan challenged the audience to push beyond lazy stereotypes to understand generational and age differences as a complex, yet valuable form of diversity and her session was really enlightening and I think had value for every member of the audience.

Rach: This is like asking me to pick a favourite child. There were so many stand out seminars that I could easily write about all of them, but one that I hope to implement change for here and work with our team on is more Neurodiverse understanding and practices in the workplace. There are many ways neurodiverse people function and having them always mask who they are and how they best engage and learn to fit a set

of social norms, means we are potentially losing some brilliant ideas, thoughts and actions that can make things better for the industry and have them more invested in their work culture and sense of belonging.

What was the highlight of the conference for you?

Liz: While I thoroughly enjoyed the variety of sessions on the agenda (so much so that it was difficult to decide which ones to attend), the highlight of the conference for me was the Global Initiatives Network. It was great to have this social time to connect with others from around the world and reflect on the conference together. I also loved being a part of the volunteer team who made sure that the Sunday morning Fun Run, Walk & Roll went off without a hitch. I got to meet other amazing volunteers, see some of the prettiest parts of Milwaukee and cheer on the participants to keep going to the end!

Rach: The highlight for me was probably the Global Initiatives Network. The networking and ideas that came from people on a global scale really broadened my horizons. But being part of the panel of people speaking about global issues and initiatives to others was one of the biggest highlights. To realise my experience, my thoughts and ideas could also help others all over the world bring a global understanding to student accommodation... eventually.

Delegates from around the world together at the start of the ACHUO-I conference

Loretta Dixon Accommodation

Wellbeing Advisor, University of Canterbury

My London Conference Experience

Last year my son met an English girl and embarked on an adventurous journey with her to live and work in the UK, leaving the security of family and friends behind. He has always had a bit of an adventurous spirit and never hesitates to give things a go or make the most of an opportunity that comes his way. I envy this courageous and adventurous side of him as I am more inclined to prefer the security of the familiar.

Why do we need to know about your son I hear you ask? After dreaming for years about taking a trip to the UK, I had never quite committed to the adventure. The reality came into stark view however that if I wanted to see my son anytime in the next two years, I would need to take the plunge and travel to the UK, committing finances and embracing the unknown. Once I committed to the visit, I decided to look up conference opportunities that I might be able to take advantage of while I was there…

Student Mental Health Conference, Kings College, London – June 2024

The conference was an inaugural gathering of researchers, PHD students, clinicians and support services in a purposefully small (150 delegates), inclusive and interactive conference with all participants encouraged to do a presentation of their research. It was made up of key speakers, workshops, focussed discussions and 3-minute lightning presentations. We were each assigned a home group (15 delegates) led by a PHD student with lived MH experience and there was time allocated each day to engage in more casual discussions within our groups. The conference was a collaboration between Kings College London, KCLSU (Kings College London Student Union) and SMaRteN (Student Mental Health Research Network here: SMaRteN)

The conference was devised and headed by Nicola Byrom, Lecturer in Psychology at KCL and founding trustee of Student Minds and Julia Pointon-Haas, PhD student researching peer support for University MH and Wellbeing, and Head of Advice and Wellbeing at KCLSU.

The opening session was a compelling on-stage interview relaying a history of activism in student MH through Angela’s personal experience.

Historian and researcher Dr Sarah Crook interviewed Angela Mundy who was a former Oxford University Student and Mental Health campaigner. Angela had been a student at Parnell College, Oxford in 1961 when she felt compelled to advocate for MH support for students after she returned from semester break to find out that one of her classmates had died by suicide.

Research data from Oxford in 1951 showed that there was a higher proportion of students who experienced MH crisis and who died by suicide than their equivalent age group in the general population. The postwar context of the time was that students were seen as the future, and there was growing concern at the waste of future promise that suicide represented. Simultaneously, there was a growing understanding that the transition to university came at the same time as the age at which many young people experience the onset of MH disorders.

Angela advocated for counselling resources, education and awareness. Angela had not been aware until contacted last year by Sarah, that due to Angela’s efforts, initiatives and programmes had been put in place in subsequent years at the university to support student mental health. The main takeaway from the session

was that we do not always see the fruits of our efforts immediately and changing imbedded systems or culture can take time. I think the message is just as relevant today and we need people like Angela to step up and be brave to challenge the status quo if it is not working.

Conference themes and key speakers

Campus community

Dr Michael Priestley

U Belong Project

Michael spoke on the need to change the narrative about loneliness and isolation from being an individual’s responsibility to a collective one. Research shows the greatest risk for loneliness coincides with the age of majority and the same age as transition to university, therefore a whole of university approach to belonging is needed. He highlighted that the building of community is important to help balance the power inequalities of a university environment.

Historically loneliness has been viewed as an individual problem and therefore students need treatment and socialisation, but that has ignored the structures that distort the experiences and can cause harm, meaning we need a whole of university approach to creating a sense of belonging.

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Conference organiser Julia Pointon-Haas giving a presentation

My London Conference Experience

Continued from previous page

Pedagogy and personal tutoring

Dr Rebecca Upsher

Kings College Lecturer in Psychology (Education)

Rebecca spoke about embedding student mental health into the curriculum, curriculum design and staff development for the benefit of student health. Some good information and a short summary video of the ideas she discussed can be found in the toolkit here: Education for Mental Health Toolkit | Advance HE (advance-he.ac.uk)

Service design

Dr Kristin Cleverley

Director, Inlight – Student and Youth Mental Health Research Initiative, Associate Professor, University of Toronto, Senior Scientist, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health University of Toronto (Scarborough)

Kristin spoke on the success they have had designing a model for mental health support services. While admitting it is not perfect, she said it has proven very effective and this is increasingly important, with their data showing that some students are now looking at choosing a university based on what mental health supports are on offer. She also reported that some clinicians are now happy to hand over or share responsibility for supporting students due to the trust in the model.

They used Co-production as the design process which included working with service providers, faculty members and student mental health users throughout the whole process, including planning, design, implementation and evaluation. It became clear to them that an acute mental health pathway was needed as part of the model. They have also followed a stepped care approach from prevention and early intervention through to high level support for complex needs.

Kristin pointed out that having one single data file for a student at the university has helped implement such a connected response to student needs.

The University of Toronto also run a Global Speaker Series which is a virtual event series profiling the latest research in student mental health and wellbeing from around the world. The sessions are recorded and are worth a look. Global Speaker Series – Inlight – Student Mental Health Research (utoronto.ca)

The role of the university Dr Gareth Hughes (PFHEA) (Co-author of the UK Mental Health charter) on the role of Universities in MH. (Psychotherapist specialising in student mental health)

Gareth spoke about the moral obligation of universities to engage with student mental health as data shows that student mental health dips on arrival at university and does not rise again until they leave. He also spoke of the core role of a university to grow and develop wisdom through research, teaching and learning which is harder to do if students are impacted negatively by their own or others mental health. He also challenged us to look at opportunities rather than boundaries when we support students in various circumstances. For example, do we stop supporting a student because they are hospitalised, and it is now the hospitals’ responsibility? Our student is still our student when they are in hospital.

Some of the thought-provoking optional sessions I attended:

Creating co-production opportunities (Margaret McLafferty – Research Fellow in Mental health at ATU Donegal)

Ulster University/ATU– joint project to design a MH service suitable for students with autism and ADHD. The screening project came out of frustration for students and lack of access to getting ADHD/Autism diagnosis. With an increasing incidence of autism at University and 79% of students with autism reporting MH issues, this was a way to improve the support they were able to receive. University staff feel they are now doing a better job supporting students since implementing this project.

• They designed their MH service around ADHD screening because people being screened had a higher prevalence of suicidal ideation and MH issues.

• Students were identified through student care as well as a poster campaign to student population. Students did not need a formal diagnosis to take part. Process included:

– Survey – 1:1 interview – MH literacy and wellbeing sessions over 8 weeks

• About half of the students were Masters and PHD level

• Participants didn’t always know what they needed; they gained some insight through the process.

• Don’t wait until the end to evaluate, do it as you go.

Increase in MH in children, ADHD and neurodiversity in youth.

Jane Harris

Co-Director of student welfare and support and head of counselling, University of Oxford

• Groups of young people are now not working due to MH difficulties

• The message was about balance and how we in support services can lose focus on the task at hand, or our primary purpose if we try to do too much. What is our primary task? Is it risk management, or can we have capacity for supporting students with personal development. Will we still have capacity to see those without high needs?

What do we mean by well governed?

Clinical governance what and why?

Dr Gareth Hughes (see above for bio)

• What would tell the university that a therapist was potentially harmful (because there is potential for counselling to cause harm).

• Design needs to be evidence led.

• Staff – are the right people in the right place and is the culture right.

• Need for evaluation = ongoing improvement

• Fit to study – could be seen as policing and will this result in lower trust for the student care team?

• Measuring student wellbeing – If 1/3 of uni students are struggling, then supporting them is too big for student care, which is why we need a whole of university approach.

• Suggest use of a step care model i.e. not just straight counselling but MH practitioners

• Need a blend of internal and external supervision so not blurred with line management.

• What do WE need to change so the student does not need to change so much because these are the students we are getting. We need to scaffold supports around them while they build skills working towards graduation, no matter their level of entry with us, rather than expect them to make unrealistic changes to match institutional needs. Life will not likely go back to a pre-covid normal, and some aspects of workplaces are now different. Are we meeting the need to prepare them to go into the world effectively?

• Do we have sufficient clinical governance?

– People can be harmed by SW, student care etc. Do we evaluate our student care services e.g. outcome measurement?

– It shouldn’t be up to a student to come forward – we should have systems in place to make sure we are honouring obligations to student to provide quality, safe and meaningful service.

– We often concentrate on ad hoc activities like yoga etc rather than change the whole culture and lower workloads.

– What training are we mandating for managers- and what is the impact and feedback from staff?

Is Mental Health a Crisis or Social Phenomenon

Jane Harris – (see above bio)

NB: Jane went to great lengths to emphasize her argument is not about denying existence of MH but how we talk about it

• With a lot of talk about mental health crisis, Jane poses the question that current issues around increased mental health presentations may be a social phenomenon rather than a crisis because a crisis does not go on for 20 years. She has increasing concern of iatrogenic harm; that the discourse around MH is causing harm?

• Students are less likely to die by suicide than any age matched nonstudent population but are reported five times more than non-students.

• Identifying with MH is leading to consequences like not being in workforce in early 20’s etc and other negative factors.

Over the last five years language that students are using in their applications for support services is changing. Students are self-diagnosing and using various terminology of diagnostic language and increased sensitivity to harm.

Jane makes a link between the Mental Health awareness campaigns of the last 20 years or so being a contributing part of a cycle (Prevalence Inflation hypothesis)

Identity formation 18-25 years – what happens when they identify as “I Have’ rather than saying “I am experiencing”… will this have life-limiting impact e.g. worklessness, poverty, poor relationships.

… Now back to why my son’s story is relevant

I was almost put off attending the conference due to internal feelings of imposter syndrome with many of the participants being researchers, PHD students or clinicians at the top of their field; what could I possibly have to offer them? I didn’t know what to expect but I need not have worried because inclusivity, collaboration and co-production across diverse roles were clear drivers in many of the projects and presentations.

By being a bit more like my son I had the courage to push myself out of my comfort zone and not only did I get to do the trip of a lifetime with him, but I also learned so much more in terms of my own professional development than I had anticipated. I was also able to bring some fresh research-based ideas back to share with colleagues in my own institution as we work together to improve mental health service delivery and outcomes for our students.

My desire to see my son, was the motivation I needed to step outside my comfort zone, change my budget priorities and commit to the journey I have wanted to do for years – the benefits gained from the conference experience was the unexpected icing on the cake. Surely, the outcome of providing a successful model of support to our students, enabling them to develop and succeed, should be our motivation to making system or process changes we might need to achieve our goals.

I came away from the conference with the feeling that while there is not one right way of doing things in terms of providing mental health support services to students, there is a clear message. Success or improvements cannot be achieved without meaningful collaboration and each of us doing our part. This might be having the confidence to put forward a fresh idea, reflecting on whether a process we have had in place for years is still effective (and being open to change it), or having the leadership courage to commit energy and resource into taking the first step to creating what might seem initially to be an unachievable goal.

I challenge those of you who, like me, have not travelled too far from your comfort zone lately, to be courageous and step out, because you never know what you might be missing.

One of the sessions Loretta attended (at the back!) with one of the key presenters Gareth Hughes (in the Bandana) listening in.

Session lead by Monika Gross from The Poise Project demonstrating The Alexander Technique of movement for co-ordination, poise and mobility.

Mark Potgieter

General Manager

Portfolio – University of Sydney-UniLodge, APSAA Board member & Chair Research and Knowledge Committee.

Reflections on the 2024 APSAA State Networking Events at St Andrew’s College, NSW, and Yukeembruk, ACT

As we reflect on the NSW State Networking event held on 17 May at St Andrew’s College, Sydney, there’s a deep sense of pride in the engagement and collaboration that took place.

Hosted by APSAA Board Members Simone Gallo, Gemma Edgar and I, this event brought together over 55 passionate attendees from across the country, each eager to address the challenges and opportunities we face in student accommodation.

The day began with a comprehensive APSAA update, which served as a reminder of the continued efforts to strengthen our community and keep members informed. One of the highlights was the keynote from Renee Hamilton, Director of the Australian Universities Accord Implementation Branch. Her transparent and insightful discussion on the sector's upcoming changes resonated with all in attendance. The Q&A session that followed was a testament to our collective commitment to student well-being and experience, with members actively engaging in meaningful dialogue.

The tour of St Andrew’s College was a reflective moment for many.

Walking through the historic yet modernised spaces, guided by the resident students, provided a tangible connection between the past and the evolving future of student living. Lunch in the dining hall was more than just a meal; it was a chance to deepen conversations and connections in a shared space steeped in tradition.

The afternoon's roundtable discussions were a significant part of the day, allowing members to delve into the pressing issues facing our sector. Special thanks must be given to Jodie Hazell, who expertly organised the data collected during these discussions, making the insights accessible for all APSAA members. The challenges and opportunities explored in each topic—from managing occupancy during a rental crisis to enhancing wellbeing supports and fostering resilient communities—highlighted the breadth of work that lies ahead.

When we look at the discussions around innovative amenities and promoting diversity and inclusion, the reflections shared were more than just ideas—they were calls to action. Our members expressed a genuine desire to think outside the box, whether it was repurposing spaces to increase housing options or leveraging technology to create more inclusive environments.

The dedication and passion of our members were clear throughout the day. It was a reminder of the extraordinary work being done behind

the scenes to ensure that student accommodation is not just a place to live but a thriving community. As we continue to push the boundaries in our sector, the networking event reminded us that we are stronger together. APSAA members continue to innovate, support, and uplift one another, sharing best practices and embracing the ever-changing landscape of student accommodation.

A heartfelt thank you to Alice Draffin (Director of Student Life, St Andrew’s) and the entire team at St Andrew’s College for hosting this event and creating a space for such valuable reflections and discussions.

Fast forward to October 3rd, where nearly 50 attendees gathered for the APSAA Canberra Summit, some travelling from interstate, underscoring the importance of these events in our calendar. The day kicked off with a tour of Yukeembruk at ANU, a striking building that offers incredible facilities for students—a testament to the innovation we strive for in our sector.

The APSAA Board Update was a moment of reflection on the organisation’s growth, with a 13%

NSW Networking event, St Andrew’s College, Sydney

increase in membership over the past year, representing 134,940 beds across seven countries. It was a reminder that none of this would be possible without the dedication of more than 30 volunteers who gave over 1390 hours to the profession—an inspiring statistic that highlights the heart of APSAA.

Renee Hamilton returned to share her insights, this time focusing on the Gender-Based Violence Action Plan, a topic that drew great engagement from the audience. The lively discussions that followed were a powerful reflection of our shared commitment to creating safer, more inclusive spaces for all students.

The afternoon continued with presentations from Rachel Overton, University of Canberra (UC) and Katie Boyd, Australian National University (ANU), who shared their experiences with gender and alcohol-free spaces and a new after-hours support model, respectively. Their contributions provided invaluable takeaways for all attendees, leaving us with fresh perspectives and new possibilities to explore within our own institutions.

A heartfelt thank you to Felicity Gouldthorp (Director Residential Experience Division, ANU), Rachel Overton (Associate Director, UC) and

the entire UniLodge team at Yukeembruk (ANU) for hosting this event and creating a space for such valuable reflections and discussions.

As we look back on these events, it is clear that 2024 has been a year of growth, challenge, and opportunity for APSAA in the NSW and ACT regions. The collective wisdom and passion displayed at these gatherings are the very forces that will continue to drive us forward as we work to enhance the student accommodation experience.

Partner with us

Together, we are building communities that reflect the values of inclusivity, innovation, and resilience.

On behalf of Simone Gallo (APSAA Vice President), Gemma Edgar (APSAA Board Member), and myself (Mark Potgieter, APSAA Board Member), we sincerely thank you for your incredible contributions throughout 2024. We look forward to continuing our discussions and sparking new ones as we head into 2025.

APSAA industry partners have the opportunity to connect and collaborate with our growing membership across the region and leverage with affiliate associations around the globe.

To meet the needs of both our members and sponsors, APSAA has evolved the way in which we facilitate advertising, communications and engagement activities. Through advertising in our quarterly industry journal, our monthly newsletter and webinar series, or through our website and social media platforms, advertisers will have the opportunity to engage meaningfully with stakeholders across the sector.

These are unique and highly targeted opportunities that will put your brand front-and-centre for leaders and staff across the Student Accommodation Industry in the Asia-Pacific region.

APSAA Canberra Summit held at the Australian National University

Student Accommodation December 2024

Phone: +61 3 9586 6055

Email: admin@apsaa.org.au apsaa.org.au