Learning should not stop as we get older. U3A provides social and intellectual stimulation for people not in full-time paid employment. Programs are enjoyable as well as educational. U3A gives you the opportunity to learn something you have always intended to learn but have not had time to pursue.

While operated independently by volunteers, U3A Merri-bek is one of more than 100 Victorian U3As supported by U3A Network Victoria, which provides organisational and planning support as well as facilitating broader relationships between Member U3As and affiliates, peer organisations and Government.

Membership is open to retired and semi-retired people over 50 years of age.  No qualifications are required to join and enrol in courses.

U3As are run entirely by volunteers.  U3A offers the opportunity not only to learn, but also to become a program facilitator. You may be interested in sharing your knowledge and skills in an area you have a lifetime of experience in, or a new interest you are exploring and learning about and would like to share.

We offer a range of programs over four terms each year. To view our programs  click Programs.

Programs are held in a variety of venues throughout Merri-bek. To see details, click Venues.

U3A Merri-bek is a not-for-profit incorporated association administered by a volunteer Committee of Management. We always welcome assistance in many areas. To contribute some of your time or knowledge, click Volunteers.

An earlier U3A Merri-bek started in 1999, but ceased operation in 2008. It was formally wound up in 2012.

In 2014 U3A Network Victoria identified Moreland (now Merri-bek) as the only metropolitan municipality without an active U3A. After a number of public meetings, a steering committee was formed in late February 2015, and U3A Merri-bek was on its way again.  We received our incorporation number on 31 March 2015 and the first programs commenced in April 2015, expanding ever since then.

In April 2015 U3A Merri-bek began with 30 members and now has over 200 members. As membership expands, so does the range of programs we can offer. With your help by becoming a member and sharing your skills and knowledge, we will continue to grow.

Following receipt of a start-up grant from U3A Network Victoria, the main source of funding is from membership fees and any successful submissions for grants from Merri-bek Council and other sources.