About Wilam Hall

Wilam Hall’s objective is to provide an intellectually and socially invigorating residential community, especially to under-represented students, and to enable all residents to benefit from the personal and academic support of the college.

History

Wilam Hall stands on the traditional unceded lands of the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation. The building itself has an interesting history with many stories to tell. Read more.

Name change from Medley to Wilam Hall
Sir John Medley was a significant figure in Australia in the middle decades of the 20th century, holding positions including Vice-Chancellor of the University of Melbourne from 1938-51 and other senior roles at Victorian and national cultural institutions.

Sir John Medley was also a member of the Eugenics Society of Victoria at a time when some academics within the University endorsed and promoted eugenicist policies which targeted marginalised groups, including Indigenous peoples and people with disability.

In 2024, the University endorsed the new name Wilam meaning home in the Woi Wurrung Language. This decision was informed by more than a decade of student effort and advocacy to reconsider the name of the College as many students, particularly Indigenous students, had been deeply affected by the name of the College given Sir John Medley's membership of the Eugenics Society of Victoria. This new name was gifted to the College by the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation.

The new name, Wilam Hall, reflects the College’s ethos of community, inclusivity, diversity, and connection to unceded Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung lands.

Academic program

Wilam Hall provides a broad and holistic academic program for all universities and degree areas. From Study Hall sessions, academic workshops, subject-specific academic support to academic consults and intercollegiate tutorials, the program offers a student-centred and personal approach to ensuring academic success.

Wellbeing program

The wellbeing program at Wilam recognises that the young people who make Wilam a home are more than just students. All staff members at Wilam have a pastoral care role, including Residential Tutors who provide immediate support to all students, including out-of-hours support.  Students also have access to the University's medical and counselling services.

Community and culture

All residents at Wilam Hall have the opportunity to be a part of a vibrant community life. With various events throughout the year including welcome week, celebration dinners, The Wilam Ball, sport, intercollegiate events, practical skill building classes, etc. You are guaranteed to find something that you enjoy and have a great time!

Sustainability

Wilam Hall was renovated to maximise the efficient use of power and water. Some of the sustainability initiatives currently in place include: solar panels, rainwater recycling, food waste reduction, Healthy, locally produced food, composting facilities, edible roof garden, Non-toxic and biodegradable cleaning products, etc.

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