Why become a fair trade university?
The University of Melbourne comprises about 58,000 students and staff – as populous as the fifth largest Victorian city. The consumer choices we make on campus matter. By using fair trade options, we help reduce poverty and make a real difference to the lives of farmers and to communities in the developing world. Every choice matters – and we, as a community of 58,000 consumers, could make a world of difference.
Image courtesy of Fairtrade Australia & New Zealand
What does becoming a fair trade university mean for me?
A fair trade university supports and promotes fair trade products on campus.
At Melbourne, students and staff will enjoy greater choice through fair trade options – for coffee, tea, chocolate, and other products – for those who prefer to buy or consume fair trade products.
As part of our fair trade commitment, the University will:
- Stock fair trade tea and coffee in at least 50% of kitchenettes across campus
- Serve fair trade tea and coffee in Council and Senior Executive meetings
- Let you know which cafes on campus offer fair trade tea and coffee (see our map)
- Encourage other cafes and outlets to offer fair trade options, and
- Over time, look at fair trade alternatives for products such as clothing and sports equipment
For farmers, workers and their families in the developing world, our fair trade choices will translate into fairer prices, decent working conditions, better terms of trade, more income and greater control over life. Choosing fair trade also helps promote greater investment in quality and local environmental sustainability. test