SVA Working Groups are project‑based teams that co‑design practical outputs to advance student voice practice across the sector

About Our Working Groups

Student Voice Australasia (SVA) Working Groups are collaborative teams that drive key initiatives to advance student voice across institutions.

These groups report to the SVA Operational Committee and provide current members (students and staff) with opportunities to contribute expertise, shape strategy, and create meaningful impact. Joining a Working Group is a fantastic way to:

  • connect with peers,

  • develop leadership skills, and

  • influence the future of student voice practice.

What’s Involved When You Join

  • Regular Meetings: Suggested bi-monthly virtual meetings (approx. 1 hour each).

  • Active Contribution: Participate in discussions, share ideas, and take on tasks aligned with your skills.

  • Leadership Opportunities: Each group will have a Chair (self-nominated) to coordinate activities and liaise with / provide reports to the Operational Committee.

  • Collaborative Projects: Work with other members to deliver tangible outcomes such as resources, events, or advocacy initiatives.

If we don’t receive enough interest in a working group, we’ll pause meetings or project activities until more members are ready to get involved.

Our 2026 Working Groups

These working groups are proposed at this stage during our 2026 planning stage and are subject to change- additional may be added.

  • Purpose:
    Create scholarly student voice outputs and practical resources to support practitioners and students.

    Activities May Include:

    • Developing toolkits, frameworks, and guides

    • Reviewing and refining existing resources- identifying gaps

    • Contributing to thought leadership pieces and publications

  • Purpose:
    Plan and deliver SVA’s flagship programs, including conferences, summits, and networking sessions. For 2026- this is the Student Voice Summit and the Student Voice Symposium.

    Activities May Include:

    • Designing event programs and themes

    • Coordinating speakers and sessions

    • Supporting logistics and attendee engagement strategies

    Roles Available:

    1. Venue & Logistics Team
    Responsibilities: 

    • Suggested accommodation, transport and co-curricular experiences for delegates. 

    • Venue liaison (UC preferred where possible). 

    • Room bookings, AV/tech coordination, signage, accessibility provisions. 

    • A well-considered online experience coordinating AV support. 

    • Catering, bump-in/out, risk management. 

    • Produces event run sheets and logistic checklists. 

    2. Program Curation Team 
    Responsibilities: 

    • Develop session themes, keynote suggestions, panel topics. 

    • Ensure events are inclusive, accessible, trauma-informed, and student-centric. 

    • Review and select proposals and abstracts. 

    • Ensure student voice is represented across the program. 

    • Coordinate session facilitators / MC’s. 

    3. Networking & Delegate Engagement Team 
    Responsibilities: 

    • Design and run networking activities (icebreakers, thematic tables, mixers). 

    • Develop delegate engagement strategies (pre/post event communications, supporter roles). 

    • Oversee volunteers on the day (registration desk, room hosts). 

    • Consider both the in person and online experience for engagement and networking. 

    • Lead approaches for cross-sector and international engagement.  

  • 1. How much time is required?
    We suggest working Groups meet every two months for about an hour online. Additional time may be needed for tasks between meetings, but this is flexible and based on members availability.

    2. Can I join more than one Working Group?
     Yes! You’re welcome to join multiple groups if your schedule allows.

    3. Do I need to have prior experience?
     No prior experience is required—just an interest in contributing and collaborating. Each group values diverse perspectives.

    4. What does being a Chair involve?
     Chairs coordinate meetings, set agendas, and act as the liaison between the Working Group and the Operational Committee. Chairs are supported by SVA staff and other members.

    5. Is participation mandatory?
     Participation is voluntary, but we encourage each member institution to nominate at least one staff member and one student to join a Working Group OR a committee. Your involvement helps strengthen our community.

    6. How do I sign up?
    Complete the Engagement Form (coming soon) to select your Working Group(s) and confirm your commitment or email us in the meantime to be added to the EOI list.

Ready to Get Involved?

Joining a Working Group is voluntary, but we encourage every member institution to nominate at least one staff member and one student to participate in a working group OR collective OR committee.

Your involvement helps strengthen our community and showcase your expertise.

The 2026 Members Engagement form is now open, where you can select your interest in any working group(s) OR presenting opportunities through the networks or collectives.

Email sva@unisq.edu.au with any questions.