The Griffith University Postgraduate Student Association (GUPSA) exists to represent, support, and amplify the voices of postgraduate and research students across the Logan, Brisbane, and Digital campuses. As a postgraduate student at these campuses, you are automatically part of GUPSA.
We are here to help you not only succeed academically but also feel connected, supported and valued while you’re studying at Griffith Uni.
We deliver services that support wellbeing and success and create opportunities for connection through professional development, networking and social activities. We work to ensure postgraduate students have a strong voice today and into the future.
Cassidy Winter
LGBTIQ+ Officer
Cassidy Winter is a transgender, gender-nonconforming, lesbian and current PhD candidate in the School of Engineering and Built Environment researching the invertebrate ecology of rooftop gardens. She completed her undergrad degrees in Forensic Science and Wildlife Science at Griffith University, as well as her Honours project in Flying Fox population ecology.
Cassidy has been a member of the GUPSA board for many years, does STEM outreach to highschools around Queensland, and is an active student mentor.
Julia Robertson
Disability Officer
My name is Julia Robertson, and I am a PhD candidate and the Disability Officer for GUPSA. As a passionate advocate for disability inclusion, I am committed to ensuring that all postgraduate students with disability feel seen, supported, and empowered throughout their academic journey. I believe that meaningful access to university resources, peer networks, and inclusive policies is essential to our success, especially as many of us navigate systemic barriers while balancing research, health, and personal commitments. Through my work with the Disability Advocacy and Empowerment Society and Metro South Health, I strive to build bridges between students, staff, and leadership to create lasting change. I’m excited to collaborate with our community to amplify lived experience, foster belonging, and shape a more equitable future for all.
Together, we can lead with empathy, challenge the status quo, and build a university culture where everyone thrives.
Tracy Meehan
Online Officer
My name is Tracy Meehan, and I am an online PhD Candidate and the Online Officer for GUPSA. As an advocate for the online student community, I am passionate about ensuring that all students feel supported and connected, even when studying remotely. I believe that engaging with the resources and support services provided by Griffith University is essential to our academic success, especially as many of us face the challenges of isolation while balancing our studies and personal commitments.
I am excited to work with fellow students, faculty, and University management to foster a sense of belonging and enhance the online student experience. Together, we can make a positive impact and build a stronger, more connected community.
Natasha Nyikole
Womens Officer
When I’m not buried in assignments, you will find me working as a caseworker for marginalised women, helping them navigate the challenges of homelessness and domestic violence. My undergrad has ignited my passion for human rights and advocacy, and I’m excited to channel that energy into serving as the Griffith Women’s Officer. I am in my first year pursuing a Master of International Law, and I graduated in July with a degree in Business and Arts, majoring in Government and International Relations and Criminology. As a shy individual, I am stepping out of my comfort zone doing this. But I believe this role will help me advocate for women’s rights and foster community among young women identifying students. I hope to create initiatives that empower women, promote awareness of gender issues, and ensure that every voice is heard.
I believe in the importance of collaboration and hope to work alongside fellow students and community members to drive meaningful change. I enjoy my studies at Griffith, and hope to make further make it an inclusive and equitable environment for all women at Griffith. I am excited to join the team.
Kargen Rajaratnam
International Officer
I am Kargen Rajaratnam, the International Officer at GUPSA, representing and advocating for the interests of international students. As a Sri Lankan international student, I bring lived experience of navigating a new education system, culture, and support structures, which directly informs my approach to representation and advocacy.
I have professional experience in leadership and administration, working across diverse stakeholder groups and managing complex organisational responsibilities. This background shapes my focus on practical outcomes — improving access to support services, strengthening communication between students and decision-makers, and promoting inclusive policies that reflect the realities of international students.
As International Officer, I am committed to ensuring international students are not treated as an afterthought, but as an integral and respected part of the graduate community.
Sarah Bourke
Carers Officer
Audrey Pearson
Research Officer
My name is Audrey Pearson, and I am pleased to participate as GUPSA’s Research Officer. As a mature-aged PhD candidate engaging in a non-course work PhD (School of Applied Psychology), I recognise that postgraduate students have a diverse range of backgrounds and reasons for engaging in postgraduate study. I am interested in understanding the perspectives of other research-focussed postgraduate students, and conveying those points of view in the work that GUPSA undertakes.
Chariz Remli Dauigoy (Charlie)
Sustainability Officer
Your eco-conscious advocate championing for an inclusive, integrated and incredible post-graduate student experience.
Korede Oyemade
Coursework Officer
My name is Korede Oyemade, and I am a Juris Doctor candidate and the Coursework Officer for GUPSA.
Through this role, I aim to represent the interests of students, strengthen communication between them and the University, and advocate for initiatives improving academic support and student wellbeing.
Blanche Alexander
Indigenous Officer
If there’s something you’d like raised with the GUPSA Board, please email your question or concern to gupsa@griffith.edu.au and include your student number.
Follow @gupsa_griffith on Instagram to stay informed about updates, events, courses, support services, and everything happening.
Please email our advocacy team at advocacy@griffith.edu.au
