Elly Mackay
12 April 2021: Canberra’s world-leading cultural and historical institutions will become even more accessible to those studying in the nation’s capital, thanks to the University of Canberra’s Cultural Pass, which offers substantial discounts for students.
Students who purchase the UC Cultural Pass for $15 will have exclusive events, exhibitions, and access to Canberra’s museums and galleries at their fingertips.
Membership is available to all Faculty of Arts and Design (FAD) students, and any student enrolled in a FAD unit at the University.
Director of the University’s Centre for Creative and Cultural Research (CCCR) Professor Tracy Ireland says the pass will allow students studying in diverse fields to better experience one of Australia’s most culturally rich cities.
“Being in Canberra, we have access to some of the best cultural institutions in the country,” Professor Ireland said.
“We want to ensure that our students are given the opportunity to experience those places, while they are living and studying here.”
The pass – worth over $350 – was launched in 2020, thanks to partnerships with the National Gallery of Australia (NGA), National Portrait Gallery (NPG), Australian War Memorial, National Library of Australia (NLA), National Museum of Australia (NMA), and the Museum of Australian Democracy (MoAD) at Old Parliament House, which will continue throughout 2021.
Highlights include anytime entry to MoAD, access to study facilities at the National Museum, and invitations to exclusively free events at the National Portrait Gallery.
“We’re very lucky to be surrounded by these highly significant national collections, and even luckier that they have agreed to open their doors to UC students,” Professor Ireland said.
“Students will also be able to use the available facilities at the institutions, including study areas, to enrich their education at the University.”
In a launch event held at the National Portrait Gallery today, Director of Access and Learning Karen Vickery said she was pleased to be involved in the initiative.
“Young people are the future of arts organisations, and they’re also a key part of our audience,” Ms Vickery said.
“I want students to walk away feeling inspired. The NPG is all about high achievers – and gives a sense of humble beginnings and where a simple idea can lead.”
Ms Vickery also promoted the wonderful arts and culture available to Canberrans locally.
“Here in Canberra, all the institutions are in close geographic proximity to each other so you can really do a culture trail from one institution to the other and see how all the collections speak to each other,” she said.
“For students who hold the Cultural Pass, the ability to explore Canberra beyond the campus is hugely important for a sense of social inclusion and a feeling of belonging.”
The pass will allow students studying in related areas to broaden their horizons and utilise the educational tools available in Canberra.
With many of the included attractions located within a short drive from the University’s Bruce campus, the Cultural Pass renders Canberra’s arts and culture scene more accessible than ever.
To purchase the pass, go to the UC Cultural Pass page.
