An annual fundraising campaign across USC’s regions will help support more university students and assist researchers in making a positive impact on the world in areas from mental health to conservation.

USC’s fifth annual G-Day, to be celebrated online on Wednesday 26 May, encourages people across the community to donate in the area of their choice including student support, mental health and conservation.

Pro Vice-Chancellor (Engagement) Professor Joanne Scott said G-Day supporters over the past four years had changed the lives of 150 students through bursaries that assisted with study-related expenses.

“Many students in difficult financial circumstances are trying so hard to balance paid work with their studies, and these bursaries give them the support they need to not give up,” she said.

“This year, G-Day is also raising much-needed funds to transform lives through mental health research and services at USC’s Thompson Institute and protecting our iconic animals through the Detection Dogs for Conservation and Koala Vaccine programs.”

USC Development Office Director Russell Ousley said generous organisations and individuals had already pledged to match community donations.

“For example, donations to Student Support will be matched dollar for dollar up to $50,000 thanks to the Scott Williams Foundation, and the Sandy Michell Legacy Fund will provide $75,000 in support of the Koala Vaccine Program,” he said.

“People can also become fundraising champions by activating their own personalised G-Day pages. All donations $2 and above are tax deductible and we invite everyone to show their support by giving to an area that matters to them.”

To get involved, go to USC G-Day.