UNE has a strong tradition in supporting distance education students. Recognition of the importance of establishing learning communities that extend beyond the university campus to within the students' community has resulted in the introduction of new concepts in student support that aim to create tangible links between the university and past and present students in their local communities. Graduates of UNE have been recruited to two new and innovative programs that increase the level of social and academic support available to DE students. The tUNEin@distance peer support program links students with graduates trained in peer mentoring. The attUNE study skills program is offered in regional Access Centres and is facilitated by local UNE graduates who are qualified and experienced in education. These two innovations to student support are establishing communities of practice in rural NSW and facilitate DE students' integration into the university.

First Year Advisors@UNE: • Academics - engage in teaching & scholarly activities, - have discipline backgrounds and qualifications in education, - are located within Faculties/Schools; • Consult, develop, initiate and implement strategies with students, faculty and professional staff to facilitate the transition to tertiary learning; • Community of practice.