UCA History
The History of University Colleges Australia
Residential colleges have a long and rich history; many being established in the mid-1900s, mostly through the generous donations of private individuals. Initially, the Head of Colleges met irregularly, until the Association was formalised through a Constitution in 1965. The Association was first known, as AHAUCHI or Association of Heads of Australian University Colleges and Halls Incorporated, until it rebranded as, University Colleges Australia Incorporated or UCA in November 2010.
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In the mid-1980s political reforms merged Universities with Colleges of Advanced Education. These Colleges of Advanced Education, like Universities, had residences and their own Association. The College of Advanced Education Association merged into this Association during the 1989 Conference, significantly expanding membership.
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Presidents hold the position for two years. The first recorded President was Ms Doreen Langley, Head of Women’s College, University of Sydney in 1971. Ms Langley made a great contribution to the expansion of the Women’s College and the advancement of collegiate life. Each President makes a significant contribution in time and support of members and brings something unique to the role.
Past UCA Presidents
You can view the full list of UCA Past Presidents here.
Mr Wayne Erickson
St Andrew's College within The University of Sydney
2021 - 2022
Honorary Life Member
Dr Ian Walker
Toad Hall, Australian National University
2014 - 2016
Honorary Life Member
Mrs Barbara Green AM
St Hilda's College, University of Melbourne
2018 - 2021
2010 - 2012
Honorary Life Member
Adjunct Prof. Iyla Davies
The Women's College, University of Queensland
2012 - 2014
Ms Fiona Crowe
Ms Rose Alwyn
St Mark's College, The University of Adelaide
2016 - 2018
St Catherine's College, University of Western Australia
2009 - 2010
UCA Conferences and Gatherings
Since 1965, UCA has hosted its annual conference at various locations across Australia. The UCA Conference is designed to provide UCA members with an opportunity to... Previous conference locations are displayed on the below map.
Before UCA
Prior to incorporation a select group of Heads of Colleges met irregularly hosted by the following Universities:
1948 – University of Melbourne
1957 – University of Queensland
1959 – University of Sydney
1962 – University of Tasmania at Hobart
1964 – University of Western Australia
After the UCA was formed, members met on a regular basis. National Executive Meetings were held every two years and a smaller local conferences were held yearly. These conferences provided a valuable opportunities for members to network, communicate face-to-face, and further develop their careers.