31 January 2020:
With bushfires currently impacting large areas across Australia, our thoughts are with the affected communities, the professional fire fighters, first responders, dedicated volunteers and their families. Of course, the immense loss of native fauna and flora is distressing. Read more on how you can help, or how to access support for staff and students.
Support services
Students
UC recognises that some students in our community are facing hardship as a result of the bushfires. In order to ensure that those affected can easily access information and support regarding their offers and courses, UC has established a dedicated Bushfire Support line and email address for students who may not be able to access computers, accept offers, discuss fee payment options, need to defer until semester 2 or have any concerns.
Students impacted by the bushfires can contact 1300 301 727 or bushfire.support@canberra.edu.au and a dedicated team will be available to manage their specific situation.
Students can also access the Medical and Counselling Centre. The Centre can be reached via phone on (02) 6201 2351. For Bruce-based students, the Medical and Counselling Centre can be found in Building 1, Level B.
For after-hours support or during weekends and public holidays, all students can contact the UC Crisis Line on 1300 271 790 or by texting 0488 884 227.
Staff
Staff members who have been impacted by the fires can contact our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) on 1300 687 327. This service is available to all staff and their immediate families. If you have any further questions or are impacted in your anticipated return to work please contact ucpeople@canberra.edu.au.
Staff members can also access the Medical and Counselling Centre in Building 1, Level B. Appointments can be made via (02) 6201 2351.
Alumni
Alumni who lost their transcripts and/or testamurs in the bushfires can receive a new one free of charge. Once alumni are able, they should contact UC via bushfire.support@canberra.edu.au and include:
- Full name (at time of graduation)
- Contact number
- Student number (if known)
- Preferred method of receiving the document (pick-up or registered post)
- A signed copy of the statutory declaration (this is a legal requirement)
There is no time limit for alumni to receive their replacement.
Health advice
With the decline of air quality in the Canberra region, ACT Health has provided advice for residents which is available here.
How to support communities
At a time when people in our community and surrounding regions are impacted by the Australian bushfires, the desire to help and provide support is shining through.
Donating money—if you have the capacity—is now the most direct and useful way to help.
If you would like to donate to the cause, some suggestions of organisations working to provide relief and assistance to those affected by the fires include:
- Red Cross’ Disaster Relief and Recovery
- WIRES wildlife rescue
- NSW Rural Fire Service
- Victorian Country Fire Authority
- South Australian Country Fire Service
- The Salvation Army
- St Vincent de Paul Society Bushfire Appeal
You can also support UC students who are experiencing unexpected financial hardship through our Student Empowerment Fund – click here to donate.
During these times, it is important for the UC community to come together and look after one another. Support is always available.
Regular updates to the UC and broader community will continue.
