1. The March 2026 Marketplace Schedule
The Marketplace moves across campuses throughout Week 4 (March 23–26, 2026). Each location offers “Meal Kits”—all the ingredients needed to cook a healthy vegetarian meal at home for free.
| Date (March 2026) | Campus | Location | Time |
| Mon 23 March | Carlton | VE Smoko (O’Grady Place) | 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM |
| Mon 23 March | Bundoora East | Bldg 254 Courtyard | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM |
| Tue 24 March | Brunswick | Bldg 514 Courtyard | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM |
| Wed 25 March | Bundoora West | Bldg 204 Courtyard | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM |
| Thu 26 March | City | Alumni Courtyard | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM |
2. What’s Inside the 2026 Grocery Packs?
In 2026, the Marketplace has shifted from “random snacks” to curated nutrition. Students choose from three major recipes, receiving a bag containing:
- Fresh Produce: Seasonal vegetables sourced via the Just Food Collective.
- Dry Staples: Pasta, rice, lentils, or canned legumes.
- Aromatics: Fresh herbs, garlic, or ginger to ensure the meals aren’t just filling, but flavorful.
- The Recipe Card: A step-by-step guide designed for students with limited kitchen equipment (often “one-pot” friendly).
3. The “Compass Cupboard” vs. The Marketplace
While the Marketplace is a massive monthly event, RMIT provides year-round security through the Compass Cupboard:
- The Cupboard: A permanent “pantry” located at the Compass Drop-In Centres (City Bldg 12, Bundoora West, and Brunswick). Students can access emergency staples like long-life milk, cereal, and canned tuna anytime during 10 AM – 4 PM (Mon-Thu).
- Welfare on Wheels: In late March 2026, keep an eye out for the purple trolley in the City and Carlton Libraries (Tuesdays from 4 PM). It provides free “Brain Food” snacks during the first major assessment crunch.
4. Insider Tips for the March 2026 Event
- The “Week 4” Census Date Trap: March 31 is the 2026 Census Date. The Marketplace is intentionally scheduled the week before, as this is often when student stress (and financial strain) peaks.
- Bring a Sturdy Bag: In 2026, RMIT is “Single-Use Plastic Free.” While some kits are boxed, you’ll need a backpack or a reusable tote to carry the fresh veggie components.
- The City Campus Strategy: The Thursday City event is the largest, but also the fastest to run out. If you are a City student, arriving by 11:45 AM at Alumni Courtyard is essential—lines usually stretch to Russell Street by 12:10 PM.
Note: Kindly check if the campus locations offer Meal kits in other months also, similar to March
