The purpose of the college is to offer a friendly and supportive environment to students, especially those from outside the metropolitan area. The College is conducted by the Dominican Friars on behalf of the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne and provides suitable facilities and opportunities for collegiate life. It assists Freshers in the transition from secondary to tertiary education and enables its members to develop socially, culturally, and professionally in an academic atmosphere. Tutorials are offered in all major subjects weekly in semester. The Cardinal Knox Scholarships are awarded annually to recognise academic achievement.
Residents live in two wings, which are constructed around garden courtyards.
Each of the 220 single study bedrooms is carpeted and centrally heated, has a telephone and hot and cold water, and is cleaned weekdays. The College serves breakfast and dinner daily, usually cafeteria style but with Formal dinner on Wednesdays. On weekdays a cafeteria lunch is also provided. Through regular Faculty Nights the College provides opportunities for residents to meet university staff at dinner in the College. Each year members of College organise an extensive social, sporting and cultural programme .