Support for students affected by the bushfires

13 January 2020

The ANU Acton, Mt Stromlo and Siding Springs campuses have reopened, and we are working to return to normal as much as possible. We are not expecting any delay to commencement of the academic year. 

These past weeks have been testing for all of us, here at ANU and in the ACT, and for many people and communities across the nation. It has also been a reminder of our ability to band together in times of need.  

Our priority is always the safety and wellbeing of our people. We've also put in place special arrangements for both staff and students who are in need of assistance and result of the fires. 

We have made additional funding available to students who have been directly affected by the bushfires this summer. We'll provide up to $2,000 to help affected students with upfront expenses, including accommodation, laptops, study materials, personal essentials and travel to and from home.  

If you are affected and live on campus or have applied to live on campus, we may also be able to help you with an early move-in.  

For advice on the additional support, please call 135 268 or email student@anu.edu.au with the subject "Bushfire Support Bursary".    

While the ANU campuses are open, the University is actively monitoring conditions. If conditions do change and we need to close the campus again, we will let you know immediately via email, the ANUOK app, SMS, our website and social media.  

We are all feeling the physical and mental health effects of the fires, smoke and heat. It is important we all care for one another and each other and draw together as a supportive community. Please don't be afraid to seek support.  

If you are a current student and would like to speak with a counsellor, you can contact ANU Counselling on 61 2 6178 0455 or email Counselling.Centre@anu.edu.au.  

Specific appointments have been made available for students each afternoon for the coming weeks specially related to student wellbeing during this time.   

Further information about ANU Counselling is here

Additionally, the ANU Crisis Support Line is available between 5pm - 9am on weekdays and 24 hours on weekends and public holidays.  Call 1300 050 327 or text SMS: 0488 884 170.

Please be sure to check the ANU homepage for up-to-date advice on health and wellbeing. 

We understand that last week was disruptive, so thank all of you for your patience, understanding and goodwill.