Western Sydney University extends a warm welcome to students at Welcome Week 2025

Western Sydney University is excited to welcome thousands of students to its campuses as part of Welcome Week 2025.

Taking place from 24–28 February, with key activities at the Parramatta South campus on 25 and 26 February, Welcome Week offers new and returning students a chance to settle into university life before classes commence on 3 March.

The action-packed week will feature a range of activities including orientation sessions, guided library tours, wellbeing and mental health resources, peer mentorship opportunities, workshops for skills development, and networking and social events. As part of the festivities, the University’s business incubator, Launch Pad, will host an Innovation Playground activation, featuring a VR Flight Simulator and interactive experiences in collaboration with OMRON.

Students can also look forward to fun activities like Western-themed mini golf, free OMG Donus and Gong Cha Bubble Tea, Western merch giveaways, and over 100 stalls to explore.

In addition to activities at the Parramatta South campus, a range of fun and informative events will take place across the University's other campuses in Western Sydney.

Professor Alphia Possamai-Inesedy, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Student Success, warmly welcomed students to campus ahead of the semester, and wished them a successful year to come.

She emphasised that orientation is a valuable opportunity for students to find out more about their program, the services and support available to assist them, and to meet teachers and fellow students.

Recognising the challenges many students have faced over the last few years, she encouraged both new and continuing students to take full advantage of the support offered by the University to help them achieve their goals.

“Western Sydney University is thrilled to welcome thousands of students back to campus as part of our vibrant community. Students are joining a diverse and ambitious cohort, with two-thirds of our students the first in their family to go to university,” said Professor Possamai-Inesedy.

To further support student success, the University offers a range of food initiatives, including free breakfasts and community dinners, and will reopen Western Pantry at the Kingswood campus for the semester.

“Since it began, Western Pantry initiatives across our campus network have had more than 3,400 visits, giving over 800 students access to fresh produce, pantry staples and hygiene products at no cost. We are proud that the pantry will be available to support students again this year, and that we will be able to expand access through pops-up and other initiatives aimed at tackling food insecurity.”

“Western Pantry, and the free breakfasts and community dinners, not only provide essential nourishment but they also foster opportunities for students to connect, make friends and be part of our community.”

The University also offers an extensive scholarship program, with $20 million in scholarships offered every year to support students financially throughout their studies.

In addition to academic and financial support, the University offers a wide range of services, including mental health and wellbeing resources, alongside the Student Services Hub, which is staffed by students and serves as a first point of contact for any student questions.

For those looking to meet new people and engage with their peers in a fun setting, the University is also home to a range of lively clubs and societies, ranging from sports to arts and popular culture, there is something for everyone.

Professor Possamai-Inesedy concluded with a message for students encouraging them to make the most of their university experience at Western this year.

“I know many of you are juggling various demands in your lives. I encourage you to take the time to be part of university life. Engaging in campus activities significantly increases your likelihood of success, both at university and beyond,” she said.

For more information about Welcome Weeks, please visit (opens in a new window).

ENDS

21 January 2025

Ali Sardyga, Senior Media Officer