U3A Hawthorn, established in 1984, is a nonprofit, community, self-help organization which provides a range of adult education courses, recreational activities and excursions for retired and semi-retired people.
U3A Hawthorn was established for people in their third age who are over the age of 55 and are retired or are semi-retired. Our Mission is to provide opportunities for seniors to learn, teach, share and to give mutual support to each other in a friendly and warm environment, regardless of ethnicity, religion, ability or disability.
Our courses cover a wide range of interest areas, from academic to physical and artistic activities. Our members enjoy both the intellectual engagement and the social aspect of our courses.
U3A Hawthorn is open to anyone who is retired or no longer working full time. No qualifications are required to join. Our courses are non-competitive, without marks or exams. We focus on enabling members to expand their knowledge in existing areas, and to explore new fields and activities.
Download the “About U3A” flier here
In 2025, U3A Hawthorn celebrated 40 years since classes began and, at the 2025 AGM, launched a history of those 40 years, Season of Harvest: U3A Hawthorn 1984 – 2024, written by historian John Carmichael.
The book is available for download here as a PDF or a hardcopy can be ordered at the Office priced at $22. Members can also order a printed copy by enrolling in 25AABOOK in the Membership System.
Administration
An elected committee of members is responsible for managing the daily operations and the future planning of the organization. There is also a Program Planning Committee responsible for sourcing tutors and convenors.
Costs
The annual subscription cost is very low as all teaching and administration is provided by members on a voluntary basis. U3A Hawthorn supports itself financially through membership subscriptions, and is very grateful for the receipt of support from the State Government of Victoria and the City of Boroondara.
There are no subject fees. Class members usually cover the cost of photocopying and other class materials.
Relationship with other U3As
Each U3A is autonomous. However, some have formed regional “alliances” to discuss matters of mutual interest. Hawthorn is part of the Eastern Metropolitan Region and meets with others from the region several times a year.
Am I covered by Insurance?
We have insurance for Public Liability and, for Tutors and Officebearers, insurance against injury due to accident occurring while engaged in voluntary work and/or authorised activities on our behalf.
Individual members are not covered but may make a claim under our Public Liability insurance where they believe a negligent act or omission by U3A Hawthorn, or its volunteers, has led to loss, injury or damage during our organisation’s authorised activities.
U3A Hawthorn Inc
ABN: 41 360 939 238
Incorporated Association Registration Number: A0010798X