Regional communities welcomed at University of Melbourne Open Day

More than 50,000 visitors descended on the University of Melbourne’s Parkville and Southbank campuses for Open Day, one of the largest events on the University calendar. Among them were 70 students and family members from the Goulburn Valley, Shepparton, and surrounding towns—many visiting the University for the first time.

Their attendance was made possible through a free bus initiative, coordinated by the University’s Engagement & Partnerships and Future Students teams in collaboration with local schools and community organisations. The program aimed to remove barriers to access and ensure regional students could explore the opportunities available at Melbourne.Students from a range of schools, including Notre Dame College, Greater Shepparton Secondary College, Goulburn Valley Grammar, Cobram Anglican Grammar, Yarrawonga P-12 College, Echuca College, and St Joseph’s College Echuca took part in the visit. Guided by University staff and volunteers, some of whom shared similar backgrounds and languages, the visitors explored the campusesand engaged with current students.

Muzhgan Qazikhil, Multicultural Liaison Officer at Greater Shepparton Secondary College, described the significance of the day:

“At the start, I was nervous, but having a student volunteer who spoke Dari gave us all the confidence to explore the campus. This day made us feel included and empowered, especially those in culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities.”

“Seeing the opportunities gave us hope and inspiration to keep studying, and hearing about the scholarships at the access session shocked us in a good way”, Muzhgan concluded.

For Year 11 students Finn McClounan and Toni Thompson from one of the schools attending, the experience opened new possibilities.

Toni, who’s interested in Music Therapy, said, “In a small town, we miss opportunities, and this visit allowed us to explore our specific interests.”

Her classmate Finn added, “We got to experience the University culture, and it has opened our eyes to what we can do. It allowed me to dive deep into art and design. Opportunities like this help us not to be defined by someone who grew up in a small town.”

Professor Sara Wills, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engagement), reinforced the University's commitment to inclusion:

“We believe that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. Our goal is to open doors and provide pathways for students across Victoria, especially those who may never have considered Melbourne as an option.”

As the University continues to deepen ties with regional Victoria and expand access to education, days like this reinforce its commitment to equity, inclusion, and creating brighter futures for all.