Hello everyone,
I start this update with the news that, unfortunately, an ANU student who is interstate, has tested positive to COVID-19. Our thoughts are with our student and their family and friends. The student has requested privacy at this time.
The student is being cared for by health authorities, and is following their advice and directions. They haven't been to campus or the ACT. We've been in contact with the student and are providing additional support through the University's Community Wellbeing team.
There remain only six cases of COVID-19 in the ACT and none on our campus. There have been more than 2000 negative tests for the coronavirus.
If you, or someone you know thinks they may have come into contact with someone with COVID-19, or test positive for the virus, please contact CommunityWellbeing@anu.edu.au. This will allow us to support you; and also ensure the safety of our community.
This email covers:
- What you need to know
- Hygiene and social distancing
- Change in travel restrictions
- Update us on your circumstances - please complete the eform
The safety of our community is everyone's responsibility. Social distancing is not optional, it is compulsory for anyone visiting our campus.
One of the most important ways you can help prevent the spread of the virus is to practice good hygiene and social distancing. I've had several questions about what this looks like in the classroom, in your office or in our student accommodation. The overall principles remain the same: if you are sick, do not come to classes; wash your hands regularly with soap; practice cough or sneeze etiquette and wipe down shared spaces regularly. For social distancing this means, you need to stay at least 1.5 metres away from other people at all times, and do not engage in handshakes, hugs or other touching. You are required to keep face-to-face meetings to 15 minutes or less in small spaces; or under two hours in larger spaces. Where possible, consider holding meetings outside, or use teleconference platforms like Zoom.
You can read more about social distancing options for teaching, working in an office or living on campus here.
The Australian Government has announced updated travel restrictions for entry into Australia effective from 9pm tonight. This means only Australian citizens, permanent residents and immediate family members will be able to enter and will be required to self-isolate for 14 days.
We have recalled all our staff and students on University travel and the Community Wellbeing team is supporting them to return to Australia.
- Returning exchange students should contact global.programs@anu.edu.au or +61 2 6125 7857.
- HDR students and staff should contact the Community Wellbeing team at CommunityWellbeing@anu.edu.au or phoning +61 2 6125 3346 (option 1) during business hours, or ANU Security after hours with their travel movements.
- Students, who are not Australian citizens or permanent residents who are currently transiting to Australia should contact CommunityWellbeing@anu.edu.au.
We strongly recommend you reconsider any upcoming domestic travel so you don't inadvertently bring COVID-19 back to the ACT. It is up to us as a community to work together to reduce the risk of COVID-19 on campus and in the Canberra community.
More information on travel restrictions and University travel here.
UPDATE US ON YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES
To assist us to support you, we've built an eForm that will help us understand your circumstances - where you are, your intentions and your movements. Please complete the eForm as soon as possible and update it whenever your circumstances change, for example if you are in self-isolation or unwell.
It's important for every student to do this so we can give you the best possible assistance. You can complete or update your eForm here.
Finally, I hope everyone will enjoy the weekend and look forward to working with you next week in our teaching pause where we prepare for the coming weeks and months.
Brian
