Free things to do in Sydney, travel tips and key dates for your break
 

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15 June 2026

Exams, Semester 1

 

This edition

To-do this week

Top stories

Notices

What's happening at Sydney

It’s our final edition of Student News for the semester 🎉

We’re in the last week of exams! If the past few weeks felt more like surviving than thriving, you’re definitely not alone. Remember, support is available to help you through the final stretch. 

In this edition, we’ve pulled together a few things to help you wrap up the semester and look ahead, from making the most of your break on a budget to staying safe while you’re travelling or switching off.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us this semester. We read all your comments and feedback, and it's helped shape what we feature each week (including our guide to free things to do over the break, we heard you loud and clear 👀).

This edition

To-do this week

Top stories

Notices

What's happening at Sydney

It’s our final edition of Student News for the semester 🎉

We’re in the last week of exams! If the past few weeks felt more like surviving than thriving, you’re definitely not alone. Remember, support is available to help you through the final stretch. 

In this edition, we’ve pulled together a few things to help you wrap up the semester and look ahead, from making the most of your break on a budget to staying safe while you’re travelling or switching off.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us this semester. We read all your comments and feedback, and it's helped shape what we feature each week (including our guide to free things to do over the break, we heard you loud and clear 👀).


Support for students impacted by the conflict in the Middle East

The conflict in the Middle East is distressing on many fronts. We’d like to remind you that free health and wellbeing support is available 24/7 to all students, even during the semester break. Our Student Wellbeing team can provide advice or put you in touch with relevant areas of the University who can assist you in relation to your course progression, finances, and other matters relating to your studies.

As a reminder, you can: 

  • apply for special consideration and arrangements if your studies have been impacted,
  • access dedicated support and request leave from your candidature if you’re an HDR student, and
  • access support through the International SOS Assistance App if you’re overseas on University study or business.

If you’re travelling overseas during the break, visit Smartraveller for the latest advice on travelling to or through the Middle East.


A message from Professor Joanne Wright

Professor Joanne Wright

Professor Joanne Wright, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students)  

Dear students,  

As we near the end of exams, I wanted to thank you for all your hard work, valuable contributions, and commitment to your studies. I hope this semester has proven to be productive and enjoyable, and that you’ve had the opportunity to take advantage of everything university life has to offer.  

If you’re finishing your studies this semester, congratulations. Whether you’re coming to the end of your higher education journey or pursuing further study, I wish you all the best in your next endeavours and warmly welcome you to our 450,000+ community of University of Sydney alumni. As an alum, you’ll enjoy access to exclusive benefits and offers, including dedicated careers support to help you transition to the workforce and access to our growing alumni networks.

For those returning in Semester 2, I hope you’re able to take some time to unwind and reset. Look after yourselves over the break, and I look forward to seeing you on campus when semester returns on Monday 3 August.  

Best,   

Joanne   

Professor Joanne Wright   

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students) 


To-do this week

Pat yourself on the back 👏

This is the last week of exams – you're almost there! Whether you’re wrapping up your studies or in your first semester, take a moment to recognise how far you’ve come. If you are finishing up your studies, we look forward to helping you celebrate your graduation.

 

Find out how to access your Semester 1 results 👀

Your Semester 1 results will be emailed to you on Wednesday 8 July. After 24 hours, your results will be available in Sydney Student. Find out more about what your results mean with our guide to grades. As always, support is available.

 

Know how to access and review your Semester 2 timetable 🗓️

From today, Monday 15 June, you'll be able to see an overview of scheduled units in Sydney Timetable for Semester 2 to help you plan your unit selections. From 9 am Sunday 26 June, you can enter preferences for the semester based on the units of study you've successfully enrolled in. Learn more about your class timetables. 

 

Check your units for next semester ✅

Before next semester sneaks up on you, take a few minutes to check your unit of study selections in Sydney Student. It’s also worth double-checking your course handbook and unit outlines to confirm things like prerequisites, credit points and what each unit actually involves.

 

Thinking about your future? We’re here to help you reach your career aspirations 📈

Whether you're wrapping up your degree or returning next semester, you can access careers support for up to two years after you complete your studies, just one of the many benefits of being a University of Sydney alum.


Top stories

Sydney skyline

Looking for something to do over the break without breaking the bank? 🐳

You told us you want to see more cheap/free things to do, outdoor spots to explore, and ideas for easy trips around Sydney, so we’ve put together a list that actually ticks those boxes.

Whether you want to get outside, go somewhere new or just leave your room for a bit, here are some free ways to make the most of your break.

 
Student in study space

Is that tutoring job actually contract cheating? 🤔

Looking for part‑time work? Some “tutoring” or “assignment help” roles may actually involve contract cheating. It’s worth knowing the red flags, from unusually high pay to requests to keep work confidential or share personal details. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and check before you apply.

 

Nominate your teacher of the year 🏆

Had a lecturer or tutor who really made a difference this semester? SUPRA’s Teacher of the Year Awards recognise outstanding teaching across postgraduate coursework programs. If someone stands out, this is your chance to give them the recognition they deserve. Nominations are open now and close 10 am Friday 31 July.

 

How do you plan to spend your break?

Time with friends and family 😄
Travel overseas ✈️
Complete an intensive winter course 📚
Catch up on sleep 😴
Something else? Let us know! 🗣️

Notices

Have your say on SSAF

Complete our survey on how the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) should be spent. The survey should only take 5-10 minutes to complete, and will help inform how SSAF can be best used to support you and your student experience.


Planning a Euro summer or beyond? Sip safe while you travel 🍹

Before you jet off, remember: a safe trip is the best trip. Whether it’s a cheeky spritz in Italy or a piña colada on the beaches of Bali, it’s important to know your limits and the risks.

Not sure where to start? Smartraveller has pulled together a handy guide on how to party safely while travelling, including information around drink spiking and methanol poisoning.

From watching your drink being poured to saying no to drinks from strangers, it’s worth checking out Smartraveller’s advice before checking in for your flight.


Al‑Hijri (Islamic New Year) ☪️

Al‑Hijri marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year and the first day of Muharram, one of the most significant months in the Islamic calendar.

In 2026, it is expected to begin on 15 or 16 June, with the exact date dependent on moon sighting. The new year is a time for reflection, renewal and looking ahead to the year to come.

We recognise Al‑Hijri and wish all students observing a meaningful start to the new year.


What's happening at Sydney

NAIDOC Community Lunch performance

NAIDOC Week events on campus 🍞

NAIDOC Week is coming up, with this year’s theme 50 Years of Deadly marking five decades of celebrating First Nations culture, strength and leadership. It’s a time to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to the future.

Across campus, a range of events will bring this theme to life, from the NAIDOC Week Flag Raising Ceremony to a 50 Years of Deadly NAIDOC Week Panel and Community Lunch, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. You can also explore cultural learning through events like 30,000 years of baking bread or connect with others at the University Library’s NAIDOC morning tea.

 
Student reading book

Explore rare medical collections at the Library 📚

Curious about the stories behind rare books and historical collections? Join the Library on Wednesday 24 June for The Hodgkinsons’ Gifts, a special talk exploring a unique collection of medical works and surgical texts donated to the University. Hear from the Hodgkinsons as they share the collection that helped shape our understanding of anatomy and surgery.

 
Sydney Opera House

Access cheap tickets for shows at the Opera House 🎭

Keen for a night out on the harbour? Thanks to our partnership with the Sydney Opera House, you can access discounted tickets to two upcoming shows: Balloon Dog,  bringing Aotearoa New Zealand’s Indian Ink Theatre Company to the Playhouse, and LOUDER, combining the power of a live orchestra with high‑energy circus performance.

 
Students at desk chatting while studying

Get involved in the Humanitarian Innovation Hackathon 🌏

Want to tackle real‑world challenges and build something that makes a difference? The Humanitarian Innovation Hackathon 2026, taking place Friday 17 to Sunday 19 July,  is open to all undergraduate students. Registrations are free and close Thursday 9 July, so now’s the time to get a team together and get creative to solve global issues.

 

The Wentworth Medal Essay Competition opens next week – your chance to win $20,000

The Wentworth Medal, one of our most significant literary awards, opens next Monday 22 June. This is your opportunity to prove your writing prowess and win a $20,000 prize, so take note of these key dates and get writing! 

Key dates:

  • Competition opening and essay topic reveal: Monday 22 June.
  • Submission deadline: Sunday 9 August, 11:59 pm. 

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Student website | Canvas | Student Portal | Sydney Student | Key dates | Student life, wellbeing and support | Scams support

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