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
Board Game Night
Wednesday 8 October | 5:30pm – 7pm
Ever stared at a wall of board games in a store, wondering which ones are actually fun? Well, wonder no more! Join the Buddies for Board Games Night, where you can try out a wild mix of games - like Exploding Kittens, The Mole, Tapple, Monopoly, and more – without spending a cent! Meet new friends, unleash your competitive (or cooperative) side, and enjoy snack-powered fun!
Meet: 10 Hadenfeld Avenue, Level 1, Indoor Cafe
Rice Paper Making
Friday 17 October | 5:30pm – 6:30pm
Looking to make new friends and something delicious? Join the Buddies for a chill and tasty event of Rice Paper roll-making! Whether you're flying solo or bringing your besties, come hang out, meet new people, and build your own custom rice paper rolls using our range of free ingredients! We'll provide everything – all you need to bring is your appetite and good vibes!
Meet: 10 Hadenfeld Avenue, Level 1, Indoor Cafe
Paint, Sip* and Crafts Evening
Friday 24 October | 4pm – 6pm
Unleash your inner artist and creativity with the Buddies at our Paint, Sip* and Craft evening! We'll provide a variety of craft supplies, but you're also welcome to bring your own projects – whether that's knitting, scrapbooking, embroidery, or anything else that's been sitting in your room waiting for some love! Use this event as your excuse to finally finish that thing you started or start something new! No pressure, no skills required – just good times and colourful chaos!
Meet: 10 Hadenfeld Avenue, Level 1, Indoor Cafe
Halloween Movie Night
Friday 31 October | 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Join the Buddies this Halloween for a free screening of The Conjuring (2013) – the film that kicked off one of the most chilling franchises in horror history! Whether you're a horror fanatic or just joining for the spooky vibes, this is your chance to scream, laugh, and clutch your friends in terror!
Meet: 1 Central Courtyard, Function Room B218
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 6 – 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 8 – Thursday 18 September
- My Big Fat Greek Wedding: Week 8 – Friday 19 September
Meet: 1 Central Courtyard, Function Room B218
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
