“Brotherhood.” That single Latin word “Fraternitas” encapsulates the spirit of International House. Opened in 1957 International House was the first of its kind in Australia. It stands as a testament to multiculturalism and global connection right here in Melbourne.
International House provides accommodation to undergraduate and graduate students. They attend the University of Melbourne and nearby tertiary institutions. Over 350 students live here in a co-educational environment.
After World War II, the Australian government started the Colombo Plan. It invited students from South and Southeast Asia to study in Australia. Many of these students came to the University of Melbourne. Groups within the university wanted to help these students feel welcome. They also wanted to assist them in forming friendships with Australian students. International House was inspired by International Houses worldwide. These already operated in Europe and the United States.
Fundraising efforts began in the early 1950s. The student community, various community groups, and women’s groups supported it widely. The Rotary Club of Melbourne was also involved in establishing International House. The original site was purchased in September 1953 for £13500. Unlike other residential colleges, International House was separate from the university campus. This gave residents the chance to spend more time “at home”.
In 1972, International House took a progressive step. It became the first residential college at the University of Melbourne to admit women. This was part of its original vision. Initially, the International House Council feared that including women might question the college’s moral tone. Eventually, the council agreed to admit women.
Take a closer look at the coat of arms. A blue and yellow shield displays three migratory birds. They symbolize the distance students travel to live at International House. Nike, the Greek goddess of victory, watches over the birds. She offers an olive branch of peace. The motto “Fraternitas” sits underneath the shield.
International House consists of several buildings. The Ian Clunies Ross Wing opened in 1962. It was named after Sir Ian Clunies Ross. He was the first chair of the International House Council. The Samuel Wadham Wing was named after Sir Samuel Wadham. He was the second chair of the International House Council. The Scheps Wing is a sixteen-sided, six-story residence. It was opened in 1972. This coincided with the admission of women. The Hilda Stevenson Building was acquired in 1966. It allowed for expansion of the Dimmick Dining Hall. Greycourt was originally built as a school. International House acquired it in 1975. The Bob Fels Apartments were acquired in 1996. They were renamed after Robert Fels. He was a former Warden of International House. The Founders Building opened in 2005. It houses student apartments and the Angus Mitchell Library.
The George Hicks Building opened in 2015. It provides accommodation for graduate students. It incorporates the former Ida Scheps Wing.
International House fosters a diverse community. Nearly sixty percent of the students are international. They come from over 50 countries. Students participate in various sporting activities. These include cricket, soccer, hockey, and swimming.
International House also runs the Thai Rural and Educational Development Program. Students work to improve living conditions in remote villages in Thailand.
International House stands as a beacon of international cooperation and understanding. Its history reflects a commitment to diversity. It also shows a dedication to fostering a global community.