Deakin launches $5 student meals to help ease cost-of-living pressures

Deakin students facing rising cost-of-living pressures can grab nutritious, budget-friendly lunches on campus, with the University introducing $5 meals available at Geelong Waterfront, Waurn Ponds, Warrnambool and Burwood locations.

Available on Mondays and Thursdays throughout the trimester study period at Geelong and Burwood campuses, and on designated days at Warrnambool, the freshly prepared meals include both a meat and vegetarian option, with menus changing each week.

Deakin’s Caretaker Vice-Chancellor Matthew Clarke said the initiative was designed to give students more affordable, healthy food choices.

‘We know that tertiary education is an investment and we want to make sure every student has what they need to succeed, including support to make everyday costs a bit more manageable,’ Professor Clarke said.

‘Groceries are one of the most common cost-of-living stressors, with increased prices making it harder for students to eat well.

‘As part of our refreshed on-campus food offering, introducing the $5 meals on campus gives students a practical way to reduce pressure on their weekly budget while staying connected to campus life.’

A rotating menu of two choices including stir fries, pastas and curries is on offer from 12 noon until sold out on the selected days from locations at Waterfront Pantry, Geelong Waterfront; Union Green Kitchen, Waurn Ponds; Hopkins River Café, Warrnambool; and Lower Level Building H, Burwood.