Defence reservists and emergency volunteers

If you're a defence reservist or emergency volunteer and your commitments will have an impact on your studies, you may be eligible to Register for ongoing support for your studies.

Are you waiting on an application or an appointment?

Due to a high volume of applications, there may be a short waiting time for an appointment. We understand that you are wanting an outcome as soon as possible and we are working hard to reduce your wait time. We apologise for the inconvenience and thank you for your cooperation.

Who is eligible?

Defence reservists

Defence reservists are members of the Australian Defence Reserve Service. They are entitled to be released for service or training in the Australian Defence Force without disadvantage under Part 5 of the Defence Reserve Service (Protection) Act 2001.

Emergency volunteers

Emergency volunteers may be members of the Victorian State Emergency Service (SES), the Country Fire Authority (CFA) or a similar organisation serving the state of Victoria.

Types of support available

The University may make education adjustments to your studies to help offset any disadvantage you might face without them.

Education adjustments (sometimes referred to as equitable adjustments) are changes to how subjects are taught and assessed.

Adjustments are made on a case-by-case basis, and may include:

  • Alternative exam arrangements
  • Extensions to assignments
  • Flexibility in attendance requirements.

Once you have applied for support, one of our Student Equity Advisers will work with you to create an Academic Adjustment Plan (AAP) based on your needs.

How to register

Registration for ongoing support is voluntary. You can register at any time during your studies, however, we recommend registration when enrolling in your course to allow for appropriate adjustments to be accommodated by your academics and other support staff.

Register

Supporting documentation

Defence reservists

Please provide a letter on an official Australian Defence Force letterhead outlining your duties and obligations. The letter must be written and signed by an official authority on behalf of the Australian Defence Force.

Emergency volunteers

Please provide a letter on official letterhead outlining your duties and obligations. The letter must be written and signed by an official authority from Victoria State Emergency Service (SES), the Country Fire Authority (CFA), or a similar organisation.

Useful resources

  • Standards for equity support
    Information about student equity and disability support standards at the University of Melbourne for students, staff, and the wider University community.

Need help?

If you still have questions relating to ongoing support for defence reservists or emergency volunteers, please contact Stop 1.