ABOUT THE SRC ELECTIONS
AUT students drive change on campus. By standing for the Student Representative Council or casting your vote, you help shape the student experience and ensure student voices are heard at every level of AUT.
This is your hub for all things AUTSA Elections — including key dates, how to get involved, and answers to frequently asked questions.
HOW IT WORKS
What is the SRC and what do they do?
The Student Representative Council (SRC) is a group of AUT students, elected by their peers, who represent the student voice on campus. SRC members sit on university committees, advocate for change, and ensure the student perspective is heard—whether it’s about academic policies, campus facilities, or student services. They’re here to make sure AUT works for you. If you have concerns about something at AUT or an issue affecting students across New Zealand—like rising transport costs—your SRC is the team to talk to. For more information about the SRC, the structure of the SRC, sub-committees, and role descriptions, visit: autsa.org.nz/representation
What does being on the SRC involve?
Prospective SRC members should expect to commit up to 10 hours to duties per week during the academic year. What you do during those ten hours ranges across roles and will vary from week to week. You can expect to spend some time answering emails or messages from students, attending meetings, writing reports, and attending AUTSA events.
Why should I run for a role?
Running in student elections is a fantastic way to drive change and represent your fellow students at AUT. If you have an issue you want to address, why not be the one to make it happen? Participating in student elections also offers valuable insights into the inner workings of the university. You'll connect with like-minded and interesting peers, and receive support from a leadership team that includes a President, two Vice Presidents, and AUTSA operational staff. Additionally, you'll develop important skills such as leadership, teamwork, advocacy, time management, communicating effectively, and demonstrating empathy just to name a few. Running for a position is not only a way to make a difference, but also a great opportunity for personal and professional growth.
Do I get paid for the role?
Being on the SRC is considered a voluntary role, but SRC members receive an honoraria twice a year (at the end of each semester The exception to this is the President which is considered a salaried full time role of 40 hours per week for a two-year term. Vice President Academic, and Vice President Community positions are considered a salaried part time role of 20 hours per week for a two-year term. For more information about the roles, click the link at the bottom of the page.
How do I nominate myself or someone else for a position on the SRC?
Nominating is simple! On Monday, 15 June, you’ll receive an email from AUTSA with a link to the nomination form. In the form, you’ll specify the SRC position you’re standing for and provide endorsements from two other AUT students by entering their names, emails, and student IDs. If you know someone who would make an excellent SRC representative, encourage them to fill out the form—or nominate them yourself by completing the form on their behalf. Nominations close on Friday 24th July, so be sure to get yours in on time! Once you’ve submitted your nomination and we have received all the necessary information to complete your nomination/confirm your candidacy, you will get an email from our Returning Officer, confirming your candidacy. You will then receive a candidate briefing booklet which outlines the rules of campaigning and offers some tips. The link to the nomination form can also be found at the top of this page.
How do I vote?
You’ll receive an email from AUTSA on Monday, 3 August, with a link to view candidate profiles and vote securely. Voting forms will be sent to your AUT email address, and you can cast your vote between 3 - 17 August. Please note: Due to the large number of emails being sent, delivery times may vary. If you notice that other students have received their voting email before you, don’t worry, yours is on its way. If you haven’t received your voting form email by 5 August, please contact us at elections@autsa.org.nz
When am I able to start campaigning?
Campaigning starts on Monday, 27 July and can continue until Monday, 17 August. Candidates cannot campaign outside these dates. Election rules will be supplied to all candidates.
How do I prepare for my campaign?
1. Identify Your Priorities: Reflect on what’s important to you as a student. Consider what aspects of AUT you’d like to maintain and what areas you’d like to improve. 2. Focus on Key Issues: Narrow down to about three main issues you want to address during your term as a representative. Think about how you can articulate these in a clear and compelling way. 3. Create a Campaign Theme: Develop key words or a phrase that sums up your campaign. This should be something that distinguishes you from the competition and highlights what makes you unique. 4. Design Campaign Materials: Start planning your campaign materials, such as posters and videos. Make sure they are visually appealing and effectively communicate your message. 5. Timing of Your Campaign: Remember, you cannot release any information about your campaign to the student body until Monday 11th August. Plan your campaign activities accordingly to ensure compliance with this rule. Campaigning must end by Sunday 24th August. By focusing on these steps, you'll be well-prepared to run a successful and impactful campaign.
Who do I contact if I need more information?
Please email elections@autsa.org.nz
FULL LIST OF POSITIONS
Academic Subcommittee
Design and Creative Technologies Faculty Representative
Culture and Society Faculty Representative
Health and Environmental Sciences Faculty Representative
Business, Economics and Law Faculty Representative
Community Subcommittee
Diversity Affairs Representative
Māori Affairs Representative
Mature Students Representative
Pasifika Affairs Representative
International Affairs Representative
Disability Affairs Representative
Rainbow Affairs Representative
Postgraduate Affairs Representative
Wellbeing Affairs Representative
Campus Subcommittee
City Campus Representative
South Campus Representative
North Campus Representative
Accommodation Representative
Is training provided?
Yes. It will cover skills such as effective communication, meeting etiquette, event planning and general AUTSA awareness. The expectation is that all SRC attend this training.