Representation of graduates in the governance of the University of Melbourne commenced through a University Senate in 1867. A Standing Committee of Convocation replaced the Senate in 1923. In 1975 the Committee changed its name to the Committee of Graduates, only to re-adopt the name Committee of Convocation in 1986.
The University of Melbourne Act 2009 does not include provisions for either Convocation or its committee. As of January 2011, all University legislation related to Convocation and the Committee of Convocation has been repealed. A new Statute 3.1 and Regulation 3.1.R1 have been made to establish an Alumni Council. The Committee of Convocation is a recognised Alumni Body under the new statute.