Department of Health

Key messages

  • Victoria has 104 Universities of the Third Age (U3As).
  • For older Victorians, U3As are a chance for social connection and community involvement in a relaxed learning environment
  • Since 2006 the Victorian Government has provided funding to the U3A Network Victoria.
  • The Victorian Government provides funding to Life Activities Clubs Victoria to support older Victorians to enhance their lives and successfully navigate major transitions.

Universities of the Third Age

There are now 104 Universities of the Third Age (U3As) in Victoria. The University of the Third Age Network Victoria (U3A Network Victoria) is the peak body representing these U3As.

Since 2006 the Victorian Government has provided funding to the U3A Network Victoria, to support opportunities for older Victorians to be part of programs that promote positive ageing, active living and social engagement.

U3As provide opportunities for social connection and community involvement in a relaxed learning environment. They have also demonstrated their capacity to engage geographically and socially isolated older Victorians.

All U3As are managed by volunteers. Tutors are also members and volunteers. As of December 2014, Victorian U3As had a combined total of more than 31,000 members.

The U3A Network Victoria websiteExternal Link has a U3A finder.

Victorian Life Activities Clubs

Life Activities Clubs Victoria is a community based organisation that supports Victorians in the second half of life. It helps them to manage and enhance their lives and successfully navigate major transitions, including changing life roles and employment patterns.

Life Activity Clubs members work together to offer educational, social, physical and recreational opportunities and experiences. The Life Activities Clubs Victoria executive coordinates, promotes and advocates on behalf of members.

The Victorian Government provides funding support to promote Life Activities Clubs Victoria and to establish new clubs in metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria.

Reviewed 09 September 2015

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