Basser College
The oldest of the Kensington Colleges, Basser has a strong sense of tradition and history.
Named after Sir Adolf Basser, a Polish entrepreneur and philanthropist, the college was originally built to accommodate rural students, enabling them access to the same education as local and metropolitan students.
- Overview
- Student support
- Testimonials
- Meet the team
Overview
Basser College provides a close-knit community feel, appealing to students who value a balance between academic focus and social activities. The last few years have seen Basser distinguish itself with a strong emphasis on the arts, fostering a creative and culturally rich environment for its residents.Â
Highlights of the year come in many different areas across communities, charities, and sporting, social, and cultural events. Some key events include the annual fundraisers, the college ball and play, inter-college band competitions, regular sporting competitions in almost every sport imaginable, and of course, the annual Parents' Weekend.
Student support
You’ll be supported by an on-site team comprising of the Dean, Deputy Dean and a team of Resident Fellows (or RFs). Every floor has an RF, and their job is to provide academic guidance and pastoral support and ensure each resident is looked after.
Academically, we run peer-led study groups to support students adjust to the academic requirements of university study – in addition, we also run shared study sessions along with wellbeing programs co-ordinated by our Wellbeing Officer, helping to make the transition from high school to university a smooth one.
Testimonials
I didn’t really know what to expect at all. Some things that stick out for me are the convenience of living on campus, and feeling like I have more time because travel time is cut away.
Living on campus has far exceeded my expectations. You can contribute to and become a part of an energetic, passionate and supportive community. I’ve met amazing people who encourage me to be the best version of myself.
Gillian Turner | Dean of Basser College   Â
Hi I am Gillian. I was born in Canberra but grew up in Sydney. I am a lifelong UNSW alumna, having studied and worked here for over 12 years, a history geek and camping enthusiast.Â
As a postgraduate Honours student, I was lucky enough to be part of the Baxter team as a resident fellow and then Deputy. After leaving there to pursue a PhD and raise two lovely little children, I couldn't keep away and have returned to Basser as Dean. Working in an environment that fosters a thriving and caring community is a dream and I am excited to be able to continue to support and contribute to student and staff development in the flourishing culture of Basser.Â
To me, Basser is a home. It is a place where people are more than peers, they are friends and that instils a level of respect and duty to each other. Basserians are passionate about working together to pursue their own and shared goals and the community culture that only grows stronger supports them in this.Â
My favourite event at Basser would have to be the Harbour cruise. It comes at the end of a long week of meeting new life-long friends and is a great way to celebrate the beginning of a fantastic new year.Â
Jamie Lau | Deputy Dean of Basser College
I’m a 4th year medical student from Macau, China but grew up in Perth, WA. I took a couple years off Med School to play tennis in America and came back to UNSW just over two years ago. This is my third year working at Basser college and I’ve been loving every minute of it! I’m a big fan of the beach, travelling, playing sport and exploring the outdoors.
As Deputy Dean, Jamie is responsible for assisting Dean Gillian in the daily management of the college, as well as fulfilling the role of Resident Fellow in terms of providing academic and pastoral support to a group of students.
Resident and Student Fellows
A Student Fellow (SF) is assigned every year in Basser College. They’re a volunteer senior student whose role is to create and run a range of proactive wellbeing initiatives for the entire college. The SF works closely with the Resident Fellows, Deputy Dean and Dean, ensuring the wellbeing of all residents is top of mind
Resident Fellows (RFs) are staff members of UNSW and typically in their final years of study or already holding a degree. RFs live with the students on their floors and provide daily academic and pastoral support. RFs aren’t teachers, but they’re a little like a supportive older sibling with loads of experience to pass on and a willingness to help guide the residents.
House Committee
The House Committee is composed of student leaders elected annually by residents in various portfolios aimed at offering residents opportunities to be involved in extra-curricular activities. The House Committee includes an executive group of a president, secretary and treasurer and administers a budget each year across areas such as cultural, sport, social, charities and communications.
Features
average room size 10 to 12 square metres
fully furnished
private & shared bathrooms
all meals provided (including formal dinners)Â
wi-fi, electricity, gas and water included
cleaning of rooms fortnightly
24-hour campus security
social and group study rooms on each floor
large common room adjacent to landscaped gardens
rooftop terraces with outdoor barbecue facilities
cashless operated laundry facilities
sporting, social and cultural programs
opportunities for student leadership and volunteering.
Gallery
Living area
Bedroom with ensuite
Bedroom without ensuite
Bathroom
Room types & fees
Room type |
Meals |
Bathroom |
Cleaning |
Single |
Catered |
Shared |
Yes |
Single |
Catered |
Yes |
Yes |
- The contract period is 44 weeks. Due to high occupancy, single-term contracts are currently unavailable. Please contact the office for more details.
- Weekly rates are for 2025 and are expected to change yearly. Rates shown are for full-year contracts only.
The contract period is from 8 February to 12 December 2025.
The contract period for returning residents is from 15th February to 12th December 2025.
