About Us
The Monash Japanese Club (MJC) aims to foster cultural exchange and enrich our members' understanding of Japanese traditions, language, and lifestyle.
Since our establishment, we have been a vibrant hub for those passionate about Japanese culture, organizing events, workshops, and community engagement activities. Take a look at the history of MJC below!
📚 The Japanese Studies Centre Opens
1981
The Japanese Studies Centre was officially established by academics from four universities in Melbourne: La Trobe University, Monash University, the University of Melbourne, and Swinburne Institute of Technology. The center focuses on teaching and researching Japan-related topics.
1981🎉 Club Founded
1996
The Monash Japanese Club was officially established in 1996 to promote cultural exchange and understanding between Japanese and non-Japanese students. Since then, the club has served as a platform for activities like language exchanges, cultural workshops, and social events celebrating both traditional and modern Japanese culture.
1996💻 MJC Website Launched
2006
Ryuichi, the IT Director in 2006, launched the first Monash Japanese Club website. It became a vital platform for sharing club news, events, and resources, greatly improving communication and member engagement.
2006🌐 Events Move Online
2020
All events transitioned online due to the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining the club's activities and fostering community despite physical distancing.
2020🎊 In-person Events Return!
2022
After the challenges of operating solely online, in-person events returned in 2022. The MJC community reunited with renewed enthusiasm, leading to record participation and a surge in memberships through activities like cultural festivals, workshops, and social gatherings.
2022🏆 Membership Milestone
2024
The Monash Japanese Club reached 500 active members for the first time, strengthening its role as a close-knit community for everyone interested in Japanese language and culture.
2024🔧 New Committee, New Website
2025
The Monash Japanese Club launches a new website in 2025 built by IT Director Matthew Yau, providing up-to-date information and bridging the gap between the executive committee and the MJC community.
2025