Buddy Program
Are you new to Macquarie University or Sydney? Come along to our Buddy Program events to meet new people, expand your network and have fun exploring Sydney while immersing yourself in the student life.
The Buddy Program is a peer support network providing support to students, both domestic and international, to assist their transition into Macquarie University. It aims to deliver ongoing social support through peer relationships and social activities on and off campus to students and help make your transition into your new life at Macquarie University easier.
The buddy program organises many social events and activities throughout the semester including:
- Campus tours
- Social activities on campus
- Local tours in and around Sydney (such as Taronga Zoo, bushwalking, night markets to name a few)
Who are buddies?
Buddies are current and experienced Macquarie students who volunteer to support other students through the Buddy Program.
Aims of the Buddy Program
- encourage a sense of belonging and community within Macquarie University for new and continuing students (both Domestic and International students)
- welcome new international students to Australia, Sydney, and Macquarie University
- deliver ongoing social support to new students through peer relationships, and
- share information about the various university services and supports available to students.
Upcoming Buddy events
All current students at Macquarie can sign up for Buddy activities and events.
Follow our social media to be the first to know about new events:
- Student events page
- Or sign up to get notified
Treasure Hunt!
Tuesday 26 August | 3:30pm – 6:30pm
Adventure. Connection. Prizes.
Think you know Macquarie? Think again. Join the MQ Buddies Treasure Hunt for an afternoon of unexpected clues, campus secrets, and surprise prizes—all wrapped in good vibes and great company.
Games, snacks, and many giveaway. It's part social, part adventure, and all fun!
Meet: 10 Hadenfeld Avenue
International Film Festival with the Buddies
Multiple dates | Doors open at 5pm
Travel the world without leaving campus! Join the Buddies for a curated lineup of internationally inspired films – from whimsical animation and iconic comedies to sport legends and road trip adventures.
Delicious free food and snacks will be provided – so come for the stories, stay for the snacks and chance to meet new people.
Featured films:
- Howls Moving Castle: Week 8 – Thursday 4 September
- Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara: Week 6 – Friday 5 September
- The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert: Week 7 – Thursday 11 September
- Pelé: Birth of a Legend: Week 6 – Thursday 18 September
- My Big Fat Greek Wedding: Week 8 – Friday 19 September
Meet: 1 Central Courtyard, Function Room B218
Featherdale Wildlife Trip with the Buddies
Saturday 13 September | 9am – 3:30pm
Discover Australia's wildlife up close by joining the Buddies to Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, home to over 2,000 Aussie animals, including kangaroos, koalas, wombats, echidnas, and more! This is your chance to experience the best of Aussie wildlife in one place and for a fraction of the usual cost!
What's included (all for just $25):
- entry ticket
- return coach bus from campus
- a cup of roo food so you can hand-feed wallabies and kangaroos.
Meet: Waranara Library at Macquarie University
English Conversation Club – improve your English speaking skills
Starts Week 1, Session 2 2025
Come along to the English Conversation Club run by the Buddies at MQ! We provide a casual, fun and supportive environment to practice your English. Show up and meet like-minded peers and improve your English in no time!
Dates: Every Tuesday, 12pm – 1pm (excluding mid-session break)
Location: 10 Hadenfeld Avenue, Level 1, Indoor Cafe
