Students sitting together at a wooden table in a casual indoor campus setting, eating from bowls and chatting, with one student using a laptop. Green plants line shelves behind them, creating a relaxed, social atmosphere.

Food access and shared meals

Access food relief programs, affordable meals and shared dining experiences on campus.

Supporting food access

We understand that cost of living pressures can make it harder for some students to afford food.

In partnership with our student unions, we support food access through:

  • Free food at community events throughout the year
  • Free frozen meals through Union Mart
  • Free breakfast, brunch and lunch programs during semester
  • Subsidised meals through the Campus Canteen
  • A wide range of paid food and drink options across our campuses.

Food brings people together. Sharing a meal helps you connect with friends or meet new ones. It's an easy way to feel part of the campus community.

Graphic image of Barry the Bear wearing a purple jumper with pride colours in the background.

Wear It Purple Day 2026

On Friday 28 August, wear purple clothing or accessories to show your support for LGBTIQA+ young people and students.

This year's theme Colours of Courage celebrates the courage of queer young people to embrace their identities and advocate for change.

Wear It Purple Day is a chance to show visible support for LGBTIQA+ young people and strengthen our University culture of inclusion and belonging.

On campus activites:

Food relief programs

The University of Melbourne Student Union (UMSU) and the Graduate Students Association (GSA) offer free food programs during semester. These programs help you access nutritious meals and reduce living costs.

  • Union Mart

    Based on a ‘take what you need’ approach, Union Mart helps to ensure food and household items reach those who need them most. Union Mart also offers Frozen Meals.

  • International Brekkie

    Join us for a free breakfast on selected weekdays. Domestic and international students are welcome. Hosted by UMSU International at Parkville campus.

  • UMSU Welfare Brunch

    Enjoy a free brunch and meet other students. Join us on selected days throughout the semester at the Parkville campus. Open to all students.

  • UMSU Southbank Breakfast

    Come along and enjoy a free breakfast with a varied menu. Available during the semester at Southbank campus.

  • UMSU Southbank Barbeque

    Enjoy a free vegan lunchtime BBQ. Meat eaters are also welcome! Hosted by UMSU at Southbank campus.

  • GSA Breakfast Club

    Graduate students can enjoy a free healthy breakfast at Building 1888, Parkville campus. Registration is required.

  • GSA Lunch Social

    A fortnightly free lunch for graduate students with a rotating menu. Connect with fellow researchers and students at Building 1888. Registration is required.

Meals on campus

University of Melbourne

Campus Canteen

Access healthy, affordable meals at Parkville and Southbank. The menu is entirely nut-free, with gluten-free, vegan and halal options.

Instagram page

View the weekly menus, opening hours and service updates.

Parkville campus

Get directions to the Parkville campus location at 201 Grattan Street.

Southbank campus

Get directions to the Southbank location in the Performing Arts building.

University of Melbourne

Food and retail on campus

Explore the wide range of food, drink and retail options available across our campuses.

Parkville food options

Browse cafés, restaurants and convenience food options at Parkville campus.

Southbank food options

Find places to eat, grab a coffee or pick up a snack at Southbank campus.

Other campuses food options

Explore food, drink and retail services at our other campuses.

Frequently asked questions

  • The free Frozen Meal program is now available through the UMSU Welfare team and Union Mart. These nutritious frozen meals are supplied by food relief charity FareShare.

    Meals can be collected from Union Mart at Parkville campus. They are also available at Southbank, Werribee, Burnley and Northern Hospital campuses.

    For collection locations, opening hours and further information, visit the Union Mart webpage.

  • In 2026, food relief funding supports $5.20 subsidised meals for students at the Campus Canteen.

    Visit the Campus Canteen for affordable hot meals at Parkville or Southbank.

  • No, the Campus Canteen at Parkville and Southbank campuses are only open during semester.

    It may also be closed on select days during semester.

    For the latest opening hours and closure dates, visit the Campus Canteen Instagram.

Related pages