Connecting Seniors to Lifelong Learning
U3A is the largest provider of adult education programs for retirees in Queensland. All programs are provided by volunteers. There are now 34 U3A groups in Queensland including U3A Online, with an estimated 22,000 members. Classes are held in a whole range of different subjects; including: computing, languages, travel, the arts and a range of physical fitness activities suitable for more senior adults. We learn for the joy of learning there are no pressures of exams.
Learning in your later years has proven not only to benefit your physical health but your overall wellbeing. Contact your local U3A today to learn the benefits of lifelong learning and meeting new friends. This could be the best move you ever make!
Should you be interested in starting up a U3A in your area you can find out how by going to Starting a U3A page in our resources and downloading the Start Up Kit.
If you wish to share your experiences, expertise in management, as a tutor or as a presenter of a specialised subject, talk to your local U3A group who would welcome your contribution.
U3A NETWORK QUEENSLAND CONFERENCE
Redland Performing Arts Centre
Hosted by U3A Redlands District
2 - 3 June 2020
Registration now open

YOU RETIRE FROM WORK NOT LIFE!

Our Story
What is U3A?
Each U3A is a community organisation which promotes healthy ageing by sharing educational, creative, leisure activities provided by their own members. We ask for no qualifications for membership and we award no degrees or diplomas.
 U3A Network Queensland Inc.
U3A Network Queensland was established in 2009. It is a state wide voice for the U3A movement in Queensland. We became incorporated on 6 August 2009 (IA37380). View our constitution on the ABOUT page.
The Network represents 34 U3A groups throughout the state, including U3A Online.
 State Bodies and National
​At state level U3A groups have formed Networks which provide many benefits to their constituents. Networks have been established in Victoria in 1988, New South Wales 1995, South Australia 2006, Queensland 2009 and Western Australia in 2012.
U3A Australian Alliance fosters closer co-operation between U3As across Australia; coordinating where necessary a national standpoint on issues of mutual interest.

The Adventure Begins

History of U3A

The U3A movement had its beginnings in Toulouse, France in 1973. A successful summer school run by the University for retired people, led to the very first Université du Troisième Age. The concept quickly spread throughout France and other European countries and North America. The French model centres around universities, relying heavily on their facilities and tuition, although there are no exams and costs are kept to a minimum.

The first Australian U3A was established in Melbourne in 1984 and quickly caught on in other communities in Australia. In Queensland the first U3As to be formed were Sunshine Coast and Brisbane in 1986.

Australia follows the British model which had been established two years earlier in Cambridge. Rather than relying on traditional universities to provide courses and tutors, members themselves volunteer their skills, knowledge and life experiences to provide classes for other members.

U3As in Australia are autonomous, managed by the members themselves and the only restriction to the curriculum is the expertise available within the community.

Learn Laugh Live