Activities and events

Connect with new friends, build global networks and most importantly—have fun!

Each trimester the Griffith Mates host activities, networking events and day trips throughout Queensland for Griffith University's diverse student population. Our activities and events are hosted across our Gold Coast and Brisbane campuses for both domestic and international students. We celebrate the rich, diverse culture at Griffith University through interactive games, activities and experiences that allow students to make new friendships and create lasting memories.

Trimester 1, 2026

The Griffith Mates are delighted to invite all currently enrolled Griffith University, Griffith College and GELI students (domestic and international) to explore and register for our range of exciting events and activities on offer in Trimester 1.

International Student Buddy

The Buddy Program is designed to help ease the transition to uni life and provide a safe and comfortable environment for new international students to ask questions about Griffith, life in Australia, as well as practise English. It’s also a great way to make friends!

O-Week

Program launch: Buddy Meet and Match Event

Weeks 1–3

Buddy group activities (held at a variety of on-campus and off-campus locations)

Week 4

Final buddy group activity and end of program celebration

Find out more and register

Group of students meeting Aussie reptiles including lizards, snakes, and crocodiles

Aussie Afternoon

Join Griffith Mates and make new friends before you start your first week at university. Meet native Australian animals (reptiles), snack on Aussie treats, and put your English language skills to the test with an Aussie Trivia Challenge and games. It’s a great way to make friends, have fun, and dive into the local culture!

O-Week

Friday 27 February
1pm to 3pm
Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast

Registrations open 13 February

Brisbane - register here

Gold Coast - register here

Study Abroad Coffee Catch Up

Study Abroad and Exchange students are invited to mix and mingle with Griffith Mates for a casual coffee chat. This is a great chance to meet your peers in short term programs and create a strong friendship network during your Griffith journey. A free hot beverage is included for registered attendees - This event is open to Study Abroad & Exchange students only.

Week 1

Monday 2 March
1:30pm to 2:30pm
Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast

Registrations open 16 February

Walk and Talk with Mates

Join the Mates for an on-campus nature walk and talk experience with Dr Wade Hadwen or Professor Catherine Pickering, Griffith's very own environmental experts, as they share their knowledge of the unique and fascinating flora and fauna we have on our naturally beautiful campuses.

Week 1

Wednesday 4 March
10am to 11am
Brisbane South (Nathan) departs from N68 Eco Centre
Gold Coast departs from Library Lawn and Shard

Global Connections Networking Night

Join us for the Global Connections Networking Night, an exciting opportunity to connect with students from around the world, share experiences, and build lasting friendships!

Week 1

Thursday 5 March
6pm to 8pm
Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast

Registrations open 16 February

Professional Development Workshop

Are you looking for ways to enhance and strengthen your employability skills? Join Griffith Mates at a free professional development workshop, presented by Griffith's Career Development Consultant team. This session will focus on the power of networking and communication skills for the workplace.

Week 2

Monday 9 March
10:30am to 11:30am
Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast

English Conversation and Games

Come along to English Conversation Circle and Games — a friendly, low-pressure space to practice your English, grow your confidence, and have fun while meeting new friends.

Week 2

Thursday 12 March
10:30am to 12pm
Brisbane South (Nathan) and Gold Coast