Dear students,
I hope you have enjoyed some relaxation over the semester break and that you and your loved ones are safe and well.
As you will know, next week is Orientation Week and I'm sure many of you are eagerly anticipating getting stuck into university life. We are really excited to have many of you back on campus - we've missed the activity and life that students bring to campus.
I am sorry that some of you will not be able to join us in Canberra. I know you will be disappointed, though we have a full schedule of virtual O Week activities that I encourage you to check out. I also know this period will be extra challenging for a lot of you, and so I also encourage you to turn to the University's support services, if you need any help.
For those returning, please be mindful that campus will not be as you left it. We have been busy ensuring the cleaning, hygiene and social distancing requirements are in place to protect your health. But you have responsibilities too:
- Do not attend campus if you are feeling unwell.
- Do not travel interstate if you have any COVID-19 symptoms
- You must follow all social distancing and other health protocols at all times.
- You must follow instruction from University staff about social distancing in classrooms, labs, studios, residences and other areas around campus.
- Take all necessary precautions to protect yourself, your peers and our community from any spread of COVID-19.
If you are planning to return to a residential hall, please make contact with that hall immediately to let them know your travel plans. If you are unable to return, and have an occupancy agreement in place, please make contact with your hall and your agreement will be paused.
You will no doubt be watching the unfolding events in Victoria and Sydney closely, as are we. So while we're looking forward to having students back on campus, we are also planning for other scenarios, which could include further border closures or travel restrictions. I encourage you to consider your own plans in preparation for any changes to the current arrangements.
I will continue to keep you informed and updated if there are any changes to our campus restrictions. In the meantime, safe travels for those making the trip to Canberra and, for those remaining at home, enjoy the rest of your semester break.
Regards
Ian
