Sydney University Postgraduate Representative Association (SUPRA)

The Sydney University Postgraduate Representative Association (SUPRA) was formed on 7 April 1970 by a group of science postgraduates who felt that many of the needs and interests of postgraduate students were outside the scope of activities of the existing representative organisations, the Students Representative Council (SRC) and the Sydney Association of University Teachers (SAUT). It was approved as an official University Club by Senate in 1974 after years of debate.

The aim of the Association was "to represent the interests of the postgraduate students of Sydney University". The objectives of SUPRA have not changed since then; the 1987 Constitution reads:
Objects:
(1) The objects of the Association shall be to promote interests and maintain the traditions of the University and in particular of its postgraduate students.
(2) The Association shall represent the postgraduate students of the University and make appropriate representations on their behalf.

Initially the membership fee for SUPRA was voluntary with only those students who were financial members of the Association eligible for election as council members and departmental representatives. A new constitution unanimously accepted at the Extraordinary General Meeting of 3 October 1974 and approved by the University of Sydney Senate on 2 December 1974 contained some important changes:
1. Compulsory membership of all postgraduate students
2. The Senate to have the right to approve or reject future changes to the Constitution
3. Provision for a second general meeting each year.

These 'additional resolutions' of the Senate relating to SUPRA first appeared in the University of Sydney Calendar of 1980. With greater funding SUPRA had been able to expand services to its members.

The Council, which is the governing body of the Association, is elected annually from all members at the Annual General Meeting. The Executive, responsible for the day-to-day direction and operation of the Association, is drawn from members of the Council. SUPRA has gained representation on a number of committees within the University and has direct representation on University governing bodies, such as the Senate and the Academic Board.

Associations formed within SUPRA include:
- Postgraduate Women's Association 1983
- Overseas Students' Association 1985
- Part-time Postgraduate Association 1985