The Graduate Union
The first Chairman was Colonel John Monash. Colonel Monash distinguished himself as the first Australian General in command of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZACs).
In 1919, a young barrister, Robert Menzies led a deputation to the State Government to request urgently needed building funds for the Graduates Association. Sir Robert Menzies later became Australia’s longest serving Prime Minister.
In 1926 a generous bequest was received from retailer and philanthropist, Sidney Myer. The first building was purchased in Gladstone Terrace in 1957, and in 2002 planning commenced for the construction of a new Graduate House, which was opened officially by the Governor of Victoria on November 10th 2005.
An early aim of the Graduate Union was to present regular lectures by distinguished visitors, a tradition which continues today. Past speakers have included Noel Coward, Keith Murdoch, Sir Macfarlane Burnett and Arthur Calwell.
Today the Graduate Union is not only a meeting place for its members, it now offers premier accommodation to overseas post graduates studying at the University of Melbourne and other tertiary institutions. In addition, the ground floor of the new building boasts numerous private function spaces, including private dining areas and conference rooms fully equipped with the latest digital data projection and audio facilities.