Audrey Clementine
Running for: General Representative
Hi! I’m Audrey, a first-year Arts student studying English and living at B&G college. During term time I can usually be found at Badger (pretending to study), Lab (pretending to study), or at Chifley basement actually studying. (Against my will!)
I’m running for Gen Rep because I believe that campus should be more than just functional; it should be comfortable and creative, a place people can congregate socially and have a good time! That’s why my policy focuses on cooling down Uni Ave with better shade, keeping creative spaces (like the Art & Design library!) open for longer and offering something sweet during the summer exam period heat; a free ice cream truck for students! I want to make ANU a place that supports and sustains us beyond the lecture hall; sun-safe, study-safe and sanity-safe. Vote me for a cooler campus! (Literally.)
Increasing Shade Infrastructure on Uni Ave
Uni avenue is one of the busiest pedestrian thoroughfares on campus, but at least half of it is completely exposed to the elements. In Summer, the sun absolutely bakes down and there’s no shelter or shade in the long stretch between Kambri and the city. The current absence of adequate shade infrastructure poses not only a comfort issue, but an accessibility concern and, frankly, a sunburn risk (I know my pasty comrades get it!)
As summer approaches, I am looking to improve the shade along Uni Ave; this will make it more functional, inclusive and inviting for all students year-round. Whether through increased tree planting, architectural shade structures or sustainable design, my goal is to create a cooler, safer walking environment on Uni Avenue.
Actionable Points:
- Launch a student feedback survey to gather insights on high-need areas and ensure community input informs planning.
- Collaborate with Facilities & Services to conduct a comprehensive sun-mapping and usage audit of University Avenue.
- Identify priority areas for shade based on pedestrian traffic and exposure.
- Work with the environment officer to explore environmental shade options such as shade trees, canopies, or shade sails using sustainable, climate-resilient materials.
Extending Opening Hours at Art&Design Library
Students at ANU often work beyond standard hours, particularly in the leadup to assessments and exam periods. While we have some great general libraries, specialised libraries are often crucial to students who need research and resources in their specific fields. The ANU Law library is open for 24 hours, so why shouldn’t Art & Design students get the same opportunity? The Art & Design library currently has significantly shorter operating hours than many other libraries on campus, creating a barrier to equitable study access. Extending the opening hours of the A&D Library, at least during peak assessment periods, would support students’ academic success, reduce stress, and recognise the unique needs of students working on creative and practical projects that require in-library resources.
Actionable Points:
- Consult with Art & Design Library staff and ANU Library administration to explore the feasibility of extended hours during assessment weeks.
- Collect student testimonials and data to demonstrate the need for extended access.
- Propose a trial period with extended hours during exam season and evaluate demand and usage.
- Engage with CASS to secure potential staffing or funding support.
Free On-Campus Ice-Cream Truck During Summer Exam Period
The Sem-2 exam period is a high-stress, high-pressure time for students, and taking place at the end of the year it coincides with some of the hottest weeks in the school year. Providing a free or discounted ice cream truck in Kambri during exam and stuvac periods is a simple, cost-effective wellbeing initiative that can offer students a space for relief, joy and social connection! Small acts of care can have a significant impact on mental health and community morale, especially during these stressful periods, and can make exams just a little bit less rough for everyone.
Actionable Points:
- Partner with local vendors to organise a subsidised or free ice cream truck on campus during key dates in the end-of-year exam calendar.
- Secure funding through ANUSA, ANU Wellbeing programs, or sponsorship opportunities.
- Ensure offerings are inclusive, with dairy-free, vegan, and allergy-conscious options available.
- Promote the initiative across student networks and collect feedback to assess its impact and longevity.