International House, the University of Melbourne

Tonight we hosted a cultural night that was a little different from our usual Semester 2 celebrations. This evening was dedicated to Indigenous Australia, creating space to acknowledge and pay respect to the world’s oldest continuing cultures, while deepening our students’ awareness of First Nations histories, experiences and perspectives.

We were privileged to welcome Elder Uncle Bill, who addressed our community and shared his reflections with our students. Several of our First Nations students also generously shared their own stories and those of their families, bringing a deeply personal dimension to the evening.

It was not simply a night of cultural celebration, but one of reflection, listening and learning. In a community as internationally diverse as International House, it is particularly important that our students from Australia and around the world have opportunities to understand the histories, cultures and continuing stories of the First Peoples of the land on which we live and learn.

A meaningful evening of connection, retrospection and reflection.

It was a pleasure to welcome Manorani Guy, Founder and President of AusWISE, to International House as our recent High Table guest. Manorani spent the evening engaging with our students and speaking about AusWISE’s work supporting international students through wellbeing, health awareness, employability, life skills and community connection.

Her visit created a valuable opportunity for students to learn more about the support and initiatives available to them beyond the University, while also sharing their own experiences of studying and living in Australia. Thank you, Manorani, for joining our community and for your continued advocacy and work with international students across Australia.

📢Calling all International House alumni of 2010–2020!

Join us for a relaxed evening of reconnecting with fellow residents, sharing memories, and celebrating your time at IH.

Enjoy drinks, finger food, performances from current residents, and an optional guided tour to revisit familiar spaces and see what's changed.

Partners, friends and children are welcome (up to 3 guests per alum).

Register now: https://bookings.events.unimelb.edu.au/me8RYm?RefId=LinkedIn

We'd love to see you there!

Jazz night 🎶🪊

Winter Dinner 2026