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COVID-19 information

 

Last updated 27 July 2021


Dear student,

I hope the first week of Semester 2 is going well! The state government has confirmed South Australia’s lockdown will lift at midnight tonight. This means Flinders’ South Australian campuses can reopen tomorrow.

Information about the latest level of restrictions in South Australia can be found here. SA Health strongly recommends the wearing of masks at universities in shared spaces and areas where we may be in contact with one another (unless there is a specific reason preventing you doing so, such as certain disabilities, and mental health conditions.)

Whilst lessons are being delivered online, there are still some essential activities such as clinical skills and labs sessions that can only be conducted in person. In addition to wearing a mask, please maintain physical distancing of 1.5m from others, and one person for every two square metres indoors during essential activities held on campus.

If you’re on campus for other reasons, such as to visit the library, please endeavour to keep your distance from others, and remember to bring your mask with you when coming to campus.

If you have any questions about the delivery of your topic please check your FLO topic site or contact your topic coordinator. General questions about COVID-19 can be directed the coronavirus@flinders.edu.au .

We’re looking forward to the transition back to workshops, tutorials and normal campus activities as spacing allows and thank you for your adaptability and understanding. If you need additional support help is available – visit the Student support services directory to access what you need, including enrolment, counselling and academic support services. If you require emergency financial assistance please contact FUSA Student Assist, Flinders is also working on a fresh round of financial support for those in need.

I look forward to seeing you back on campus, and meantime stay safe.

Best regards

Deborah
Professor Deborah West
Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Students)

 

20 July 2021

Flinders University is closely monitoring the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and we are aligning our actions with advice from the South Australian Government. This page will be updated to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of our community.

Latest information about COVID-19 restrictions can be found on the SA Health website.

On Tuesday 20 July 2021, the South Australian Government announced a 7-day lockdown for the state in response to the detection of the COVID-19 Delta variant in Adelaide.

Points to note:

  • Flinders University will be physically closed from 6pm Tuesday 20 July, with only essential activities continuing after this time.
  • All classes will be moved into an online format until further notice. Any that cannot be moved online will be rescheduled. Semester two will begin under these restriction:
    • Check FLO as Topic Coordinators will update you on how your classes are being managed.
  • All deferred and supplementary exams will be moved online. Any that are not able to be moved online will be rescheduled.
    • Examination
  • Examination Services will contact all students sitting exams via email.
  • Orientation activities will move online, any that can’t be transitioned will regretfully be cancelled.
  • Flinders University Sport & Fitness and Oasis will be closed until further notice.
  • The lockdown means the on-campus health service is closed  
  • For medical emergencies please call 000. 
  • Flinders Medical Centre provide 24/7 emergency medical care through the Emergency Department. 
  • The Marion Domain Medical Centre is open daily and can be contacted on 8375 7000.
  • If you require a home visit after hours please call National Home Doctor Service on 137 425.

 The telephone counselling service remains available.

  • People are advised to wear masks and are strongly urged to strictly use QR codes when they leave their homes for essential reasons.
  • Anyone eligible to be vaccinated is strongly urged to do so.
  • Please follow thorough hand hygiene, and if feeling unwell get COVID tested and stay at home.

Work Placement information for students

Please check FLO for latest updates in relation to Work Integrated Learning.

Flinders University highly recommends students undertaking placements in health, residential aged, or disability care settings receive a COVID-19 vaccine. 

With the continuing presence of COVID-19 within the Australian community, the government and health care providers are constantly reviewing their vaccination requirements and this is relevant for both staff and students. 

On the 28 June 2021 the National Cabinet mandated that everyone working residential aged care, including students, must receive at least the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine by mid-September 2021. 

Some health placement host organisations have responded by mandating all students entering their facility must be fully vaccinated with immediate notice. Others are reviewing their vaccination requirements and we anticipate more such decisions in the coming weeks and months.

Students undertaking placements in health, aged or disability care facilities are currently eligible to receive a Pfizer vaccine, no matter their age.

We strongly urge students in health, aged and disability disciplines to get vaccinated as early as possible as we can’t guarantee you will be able to start, or complete, your placement if requirements change and you’re not vaccinated. 

To book an appointment please visit the COVID-19 Vaccination website https://covid-vaccine.healthdirect.gov.au/eligibility and secure the earliest suitable vaccination time. Ensure you take your University letter stating you meet the eligibility requirements.

Noting host organisations will need evidence of your vaccination status remember to lodge your vaccination certificates onto InPlace. Your college Work Integrated Learning Team can provide any support you may need.

International students

Flinders International Student Services team will continue to provide services to International Student either here onshore or offshore in your home country, via AskFlinders@flinders.edu.au , through the Jabber Guest App and by phone.

Appointment can still be booked with an international student advisor, and consultations can conducted by phone, MSTeams, Zoom or FLO Collaborate. 

For admissions related enquiries, email intladmissions@flinders.edu.au

COVID-19 Vaccination – information for students

We strongly encourage everyone to get vaccinated as soon as they have the opportunity to do so.

While the rollout of vaccines is positive, it is not a quick fix so it is still important to continue to practice good hygiene, practice physical distancing, and get tested and stay home when you’re unwell, particularly if you’re showing any symptoms of COVID-19.

Visit the SA Health website or the Department of Health website to find out more information on the vaccine and eligibility.

Higher Degree students

Additional information for Higher Degree students

 

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Latest updates

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FAQs

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Finding your way at Flinders

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Library updates

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International students

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HDR students

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Health and wellbeing

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Support services

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Non-graded pass conversion

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Student progress process

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External resources

Latest updates

Information sessions

The science behind coronavirus

Vice President and Executive Dean, Professor Jonathan Craig from the College of Medicine and Public Health hosted an all staff and all student forum on the epidemiology of the Coronavirus. View the recording.

COVID-19 updates

Information sessions were held to update staff and students, and answer questions. View the recordings. (Select a recording date in the top left of the window.)

Non-graded pass conversion

As announced on the 28th October 2020 the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Students), outlined several strategies to support our students with the assessment for this period. For students who have received any passing grade from a first-year level topic topic ONLY [ie a topic with a number 1xxx] conducted in the second half of 2020 may request to have it changed to a Non-Graded Pass (NGP).

To calculate any impact this change would make on your GPA, please refer to the GPA Calculator.

To request the conversion of a passing grade complete the Request for NGP Grade Conversion COVID-19 form.

Upon process completion you will receive a reply notification via Ask Flinders confirming the conversion.

Changes to our student progress process

At Flinders, we want to help you succeed. If you have difficulty progressing in some areas of your studies, we may reach out to you as part of our commitment to Supporting Student Progress and Success.

We understand university can be difficult, and there are all sorts of issues that can impact your study. Failing topics or having other academic challenges can be stressful and, in some situations, it can make completing your degree on time more difficult.

Due to the added challenges faced in semester 1 2020 due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have changed our process for ‘Supporting Student Progress and Success’ for semester 2 2020. We are also looking at how we may continue to make changes to this process in future.

In semester 1, if you meet one or more of the criteria below, we will reach out to you by email (and maybe SMS) to check you’re going ok and to provide you with a link to complete the ‘My Success Plan’ form. This form will prompt you to think through the difficulties you may be facing, and you can also choose for a staff member to contact you for further support, coaching and consultation.

You will receive an email with a link to the My Success Plan form if you have:

  • failed a topic more than once
  • failed 50% or more units of the total attempted units for the course
  • failed to meet professional accreditation requirements or standards, or, inherent requirements of the course as specified for the advertised course, or in the course rule.

Please note: If you have met these above criteria and received previous student progress sanctions, you may be asked to Show Cause so we can best support you in your studies.

You can also read more about Flinders’ wide range of academic, financial, career and wellbeing support services, through our Support and Services Directory.

Assessment adjustments

As announced on 28 October 2020, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Students) has outlined new strategies to further support Flinders students with the assessment for the second half of this year as a result of COVID-19. Adjustments have been made to assessments with the aim to not disadvantage and provide an equity framework for students.  

Failed topic

Supplementary assessment will be available where you have engaged meaningfully with all topic assessments, or you will have the opportunity to resubmit one key piece of assessment where appropriate. For graded topics, a maximum of 50% will be awarded (or P for Non-graded topics).

Please note that ‘meaningful engagement with topic assessment’ means that all assessments must have been submitted on time (including assessments submitted by a revised due date in the case of a granted extension) and with a tangible attempt to address the assessment requirements.

Topic grading/Non-graded pass conversion

Topics will be graded according to the usual grading system. After results are released, for graded first-year level topics ONLY, you have the option to request a non-graded pass (NGP) for the topic.

NOTE: Work-integrated learning or placement topics are excluded from these special considerations due to the nature of the activity and assessment process. Any student experiencing difficulty during a work-integrated learning topic should discuss this with their coordinator.

FAQs

What is the novel coronavirus COVID-19?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). They are found worldwide in humans and animals.

A novel coronavirus (CoV) is a new strain of coronavirus that has not been previously identified in humans. This novel coronavirus is closely related to SARS (hence the virus has been described as SARS-CoV-2). The World Health Organization has formally named it COVID-19 (a shortened form of Coronavirus disease - 2019)

What are the symptoms of COVID-19 infection?

Symptoms include (but are not limited to):

  • fever,
  • cough,
  • fatigue,
  • shortness of breath,
  • rapid breathing,
  • sore throat, and
  • runny nose.

Occasionally only gastrointestinal symptoms are present (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea).

What should I do if I have some of the symptoms of COVID-19?

  • If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above and are concerned it could be related to COVID-19 please phone your doctor or the Flinders University Health, Counselling and Disability Service Centre on 8201 2118 (weekdays 8.45am to 5pm).  
  • SA Health advise that you should tell your doctor or health clinic when making your appointment that it is related to COVID-19 and you have recently (within 14 days) returned from overseas or have spent time with someone recently arrived or diagnosed with COVID-19. This will assist the doctor to manage your appointment appropriately. 

How do I notify the University that a student or staff member has a suspected or a confirmed case of COVID-19?

If a student or a staff member has reported that they have a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19 then you need to report this to the University via email coronavirus@flinders.edu.au. The information will then be followed up by the WHS Unit, who will liaise where required with the Department of Health. Further details of the notification process can be found in COVID-19 Notification procedures (PDF).

How can I protect myself against COVID-19?

Precautions advised by public health experts include:

  • Frequently cleaning hands with soap and warm water, or where unavailable an alcohol-based hand rub.
  • When coughing and sneezing, cover the mouth and nose with a flexed elbow or tissue – throw the tissue away immediately and wash your hands.
  • Avoid touching your face as much as possible.
  • If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention early and share your recent travel history with your health care provider when making your appointment.

We have also installed hand sanitiser dispensers at Bedford Park, Sturt and Tonsley campuses. See below.

Is there hand sanitiser on campus for me to use?

We have made hand sanitiser available at the locations listed below at Bedford Park, Sturt and Tonsley.

Building

Level

Room

Qty installed

North Ridge

 

 

 

Central Library

1

Student Kitchen

1

Central Library

1

Toilets

1

Central Library

1

Entrance

1

Central Library

2

Toilets

1

Central Library

3

Toilets

2

Connect

0

Kitchenette

1

Connect

0

Main Study Space

1

Connect

0

Toilets

2

Hub

0

Student Kitchen

1

Hub

0

Parent Room

1

Hub

0

Toilets

1

Hub/ Tavern

1

Toilets

1

Hub/ Fusa

1

Toilets

1

Hub/ Fusa

1

Printing Hub

1

Hub/ Fusa

1

Entrance

1

Hub/ Alere

2

Toilets

1

PSB

1

International Office Reception

1

Matthew Flinders Theatre

Foyer

Theatre Entrance Doors

2

Humanities

1

North Theatre 1 Entrance

1

Humanities

0

North Theatre 2 Entrance

1

Humanities

1

Breezeway Toilets

1

Humanities

1

130 - Comp Lab

1

Humanities

2

College Front

1

Social Sciences North/ Art Museum

0

Toilets

1

Social Sciences North

0

North Theatre 3

1

Social Sciences South

2

College Front

1

Law & Commerce

0

North Theatres 4

1

Law & Commerce

0

North Theatres 5

1

Health Sciences Lecture Theatre Complex

1

1.01 x 3 Entrances

3

Health Sciences Lecture Theatre Complex

3

Student Kitchen

1

Education

1

1.01 Lecture Theatre

2

Education

2

Lobby Space

1

Education

3

Entrance/ Study Space

1

Education

4

College Front

1

Sports Centre

1

Entrance

1

Sports Centre

2

Cardio Room Entrance

1

Sports Centre

3

Entrance (Registry Side)

1

South Ridge

 

 

 

South Lecture Theatres

1

South Lecture Theatre 1

1

South Lecture Theatres

1

South Lecture Theatre 2

1

Physical Sciences

1

1305 College Front

1

Physical Sciences

1

1003 Toilets

1

Physical Sciences

0

014 IDS Entrance

1

Physical Sciences

0

Room 002

1

Physical Sciences

3

3101

1

Information Sciences & Technology

1

South Theatre 3

1

Science Innovation Learning Centre

1

Entrance Doors

2
Biological Sciences 1 near Palaeo  
Biological Sciences 2 near room 205  
Biological Sciences 2 near room 225-226  
Biological Sciences 3
 near room 303
  

Sturt

 

 

 

Sturt South

1

S101 FISC

1

Sturt South

1

S109 IELI Study Space

1

Sturt South

3

S305 Labs

1

Sturt South

2

S202 Lecture Theatre

1

Sturt South

2

S210 Lecture Theatre

1

Sturt South

4

S403B

1

Sturt West

1

Fusa Student Space

1

Sturt West

1

Pantry Toilets

1

Sturt West

1

Pantry Kitchen/ Bins

1

Sturt West

2

ASMS Crossover Entrance

1

Sturt West

4

406 Physio Teaching Space

2

Sturt North

1

College Front

1

Sturt North

2

220a Toilets

1

Sturt North

3

N335 Lecture Theatre

1

Sturt North

3

Student Kitchen

1

Sturt Library

3

Sturt Library

3

Tonsley

 

 

 

Theatre 1

1

Theatre 1 Entrances x 2

2

Theatre 2

1

Tele Theatre Entrance

1

Flinders Living

 

 

 

Communitiy Centre

G

Entrance

1

University Hall

2

Landing

1

University Hall

1

Dining Room

1

University Hall

0

Ball Room

1

FMC

 

 

 

Medical School

5

College Front

1

Are there quarantine requirements regarding students and staff returning from high risk areas?

Australia’s borders are now closed. Only Australian citizens, residents and immediate family members can travel to Australia.

If you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you and your immediate family members can return to Australia.

Changes from 11.59pm Saturday 28 March

From 11:59pm on Saturday 28 March 2020, all travellers arriving in Australia via air or seaports must undergo 14 days of isolation in the city of their arrival.

At overseas airports, Australian Border Force liaison officers will work with airlines to identify travellers who should not board flights.

The Australian Government will provide accommodation for the quarantine period.

If your final destination is in a different state or territory, you must still complete your quarantine in the state or territory you arrived in, before returning home.

States and territories will enforce these requirements with support from the Australian Government. This includes the Australian Defence Force and the Australian Border Force, if needed.

View more information.

What does self-isolation mean if I do not live alone?

The South Australian Centre for Disease Control (SACDC) advises that self-isolation does not affect any other person you live with unless they also meet the criteria above. The advice is that your family or housemates do not need to self-isolate.

The SACDC advises those in self-isolation should not attend public places and not allow visitors to their home or residence. They should wear a surgical mask when using common areas in the house and should practice good hygiene.

If the isolated person needs to go out of their home they are advised to wear a surgical mask. 

What happens if I am being tested for COVID-19 infection?

You will need to follow the advice of your doctor and where required the SA Health Department. If you are advised by your doctor or SA Health not to attend University for a period of time, please contact your College or supervisor.

Test results will usually be available within approximately 24 hours.

Where can I get accurate information about the global situation?

The World Health Organization is monitoring and managing this virus outbreak with global health authorities. Information can be accessed from the Department of Health  or the World Health Organization.

What should I do if I notice a staff member or student not complying with Health Department advice regarding quarantine?

  • If you are the supervisor of the staff member you should seek advice from People and Culture.
  • If you are not the supervisor of the staff member then you should bring your concerns to the supervisor of the staff member.
  • Staff may talk to a student or colleague in regards to their welfare, and to ensure they are aware of the current advice, however there are many conditions that cause cold or flu-like symptoms.

Should pregnant staff or students take any other precautions?

Currently we believe there is currently no evidence that pregnant women are more at risk, as long as they are otherwise healthy. If any pregnant staff or students have concerns, we can arrange specialist advice.

Pregnant women, like others, should engage in usual preventive actions to avoid infection, like avoiding people who are sick with infectious illnesses, avoid touching of the face, mouth, nose and eyes with unclean hands and practicing good hand hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes and wiping down surfaces.

What are the current limits on indoor and outdoor gatherings?

View the State Government information.

I am experiencing stress or anxiety regarding the virus. Can I talk to someone?

Flinders University offers services for students and staff seeking support

Remember, if you have symptoms please phone your doctor or the University’s health service in the first instance.

If you have seen a doctor and have been advised to undertake self-isolation, counselling support can be accessed by phone.

How are we addressing the impact of these changes and social isolation on mental health among staff and students?

While our campus facilities are still available for students, such as our computer laboratories and study spaces – we understand the significant changes on campus may leave staff and students feeling isolated or alone.

We have a range of support services for students online, including our Online Hub and the Flinders Support Network and we invite students to reach out if they would like to discuss any concerns or speak generally about how they're feeling.

Flinders staff are invited to visit our health and wellbeing page which contains information on our Employee Assistance Program and tips for looking after their mental health during this time.

Will attendance policies regarding compulsory attendance at various classes be changed to allow for challenges in accessing doctors for medical certificates?

Flinders staff are reviewing all practical classes, assessments (including exams) and work-integrated learning activities which cannot be done online to ensure these can be conducted in line with recommendations from health authorities relating to social distancing or other requirements, if these cannot be conducted online. More information will be made available as soon as possible.

Should I still enrol in my courses if my arrival will be delayed?

If you have not already, please enrol online and call our International Student Services on +61 8 8201 2717 or email coronavirus@flinders.edu.au so we can assist you.

Our Colleges and International Student Services are providing advice to affected students about specific arrangements for them, including online study.

View further information for international students.

The Office of Graduate Research recognises that each HDR student has a different story, research project, discipline, motivation and methodologies. Therefore, there isn’t a single strategy that can be deployed for all students. Flinders University has enabled a digital doctorate to provide all the candidature architecture you need.

How can I connect with my supervisor and other key people for my HDR?

You can hold digital meetings with your supervisors or follow the recommendations from health authorities relating to social distancing. Some options for digital meetings include:

  • Microsoft Teams is part of the University’s Office 365 package. So, there is no special permission required to access it. There are 2 ways of accessing Teams, one way is through your web browser but we encourage you to download the app via the IDS Support portal icon on your desktop. For more information go to the student computing website.
  • WebEx Meetings is an online meeting space that allows you to meet with other people, without having to leave your home or office. You can meet anywhere, anytime, from any device.
  • Skype is another easy option you could use. Go to the Skype website for more information.

How can I connect with Office of Graduate Research (OGR) staff for my HDR?

The OGR remains open and eager to assist any students in this difficult time. However, in light of the current circumstances, appointments and meetings are to be held online or over the phone wherever possible. Individual appointments with OGR staff members can be booked by contacting Team members. Contact details available here.

Where can I find information about candidature management?

Please refer to the HDR students website for all your candidature needs.

How do I contact my College HDR coordinator if I have any HDR related queries?

Find your College HDR coordinator.

How can I connect with College research librarians for my HDR?

You can book an online appointment with a Research Librarian to discuss your research or how to access resources. The library has a remarkable series of databases for you.

View more information about the Flinders University Library’s response to COVID-19.

How can I get help with Inspire?

The Inspire website has a quick reference guide for all the functionality currently available: degree management; milestones; examination; skills development; and career planning and goals.

If you require technical support for issues relating to Inspire please submit a Service One request and an IDS Service Desk representative will be in touch to resolve your request. Please add **Inspire assistance** in the first box on the form.

I’ve just started my HDR candidature, what should I be working on?

Early in the candidature, you can create research design and research questions. These often lead into a literature review or systematic review, depending on your methodologies and epistemologies and ontologies. Your supervisor can offer you the best advice to ensure a successful candidature. This is the time of minimal disruption for you.

I’m at mid-candidature, what should I be working on?

This is a good time for writing thesis chapters, working on literature reviews, ethics applications, undertaking reference checks or research plans for the next phase of your work. Your supervisor can offer you the best advice to ensure a successful candidature.

Take some time to review the research plan that has been already put in place for the remainder of the year, map progress so far and document what is still planned for this period. Prepare an updated summary of your research and plan how you may spend your time if the location of your research is changed. You should work with your supervisor to identify components of your project that could be performed at home or an alternative location if there are prolonged candidature disruptions.

I’m in my final year of candidature, what should I be working on?

This is a good time for reviewing thesis chapters, proof-reading, undertaking reference checks and finalising your thesis for examination. Your supervisor can offer you the best advice to ensure a successful candidature.

At Flinders, the submission of thesis for examination is online via Inspire. For more information refer to the HDR students examination and completion website.

How can I achieve my Milestone presentation?

All milestones remain available to complete online in Inspire. Please organise your Milestone Presentation via Teams or Zoom and confirm the date and time with your supervisory panel and ensure that an assessor (if required) is able to attend, in person or online (please check College Milestone guidelines for further information).

The OGR can help guide you through this process – contact the HDR Progression Team at hdr.progression@flinders.edu.au.

What do I do if I am worried that I will not be able to meet my milestones due to interruption as a consequence of being directly involved in the COVID-19 response?

Discuss your situation with your supervisor and email the HDR Progression Team, hdr.progression@flinders.edu.au in the Office of Graduate Research to discuss the impact. The University recognises that each student’s case is unique and will be managed on an individual basis.

My supervisor has asked me to take an intermission as experiments can’t be commenced. My concerns are around how this affects me if the situation continues, and how I can go on to do research after that.

The University’s approach is that research will continue as much as possible to maintain output, following appropriate guidelines (social distancing). The situation will need to be reviewed as it progresses.

A plan should be developed with your supervisor for the following 2-3 months assuming the situation remains as it is now. Also make sure you have your existing plan of what you had intended to do for the remainder of the year.

Concerns around intermissions and effects on scholarships are to be discussed with your supervisor, or the College HDR coordinator and the Office of Graduate Research. Individual appointments with OGR staff members can be booked by contacting team members here.

 How do I deal with increased caring responsibilities?

HDR students needing to assist children at home or elderly parents may need to consider an intermission or part-time option. Concerns around intermissions and effects on scholarships are to be discussed with your supervisor, or the College HDR coordinator or the Office of Graduate Research. Individual appointments with OGR staff members can be booked by contacting team members here.

What if my research needs to be undertaken overseas or with vulnerable people during this time?

We recognize it is important that the university support you to undertake research overseas or with vulnerable populations in Australia, and encourage you to adjust timelines for the research or their research design, to ensure both their own health and safety and also that of their research collaborators. Discuss this with your supervisors, and if Ethics is in place, report any changes. Find contact details.

What is the resourcing around ethics committees (SACHREC/SBREC/IBC/AWC) regarding timelines for approvals / modifications, for example, possibility of restructuring clinical trials due to modifications, or modifying data collection due to travel restrictions?

At this stage ethics committees are running to schedule and some are scheduling extraordinary meetings. Refer to research integrity, ethics and compliance for more information.

Fieldwork – how it can be transitioned during this time?

The Dean of Graduate Research has had discussions with many students about putting the problem into the work. Interviews can be done at a distance, but still face-to-face via technology.

The Deans of Research in the Colleges of Nursing and Health Sciences and Business, Government and Law have provided the information below to assist you with your data collection activities:

Consider whether your data collection activity can take place without in person contact.

You may wish to consider moving to online activities or phone calls. If so, it would be prudent to seek ethics approval for a modification to your protocol (consider privacy issues, data storage issues, implications for any costs incurred by participants).

Prepare the research space (be it on campus, or elsewhere)

  1. Ensure you can provide social distancing of at least 1.5 meters for the entire data collection activity (including travel to and from the data collection activity).
  2. Ensure hand sanitisers are available and used by all parties (including researcher, participant, carers, onlookers) frequently (i.e., at the very least they should be used before and after data collection activities).
  3. Ensure any equipment used is able to be fully sanitised after use by each researcher and each participant.

For more information about changes to fieldwork refer to this article.

What if my supervisors have been seconded to attend to urgent COVID-19 related matters?

We recommend you arrange regular meetings with your principal supervisor and if that is not possible then your associate supervisor(s). If you are finding it difficult to access supervision at the moment due to COVID-19 related matters, then please contact the College HDR Coordinator and a temporary alternative supervisor/advisor can be arranged. You can also discuss this concern with the Office of Graduate Research. Individual appointments with OGR staff members can be booked here.

How can international HDR students currently overseas get support?

In your host country we recommend that you stay connected with your supervisor and research group via regular online meetings and other available mediums of communications.

In the College of Medicine and Public Health, international students currently overseas can connect with the CMPH HDR community via the planned regular Teams HDR forums. We are setting up an HDR community.

You can join the newly formed international HDR students club. Read this article for more information. If you are interested in joining the club, or share your ideas around supporting the club please contact vito.hernandez@flinders.edu.au.

Can a candidature extension be granted due to COVID-19?

The University is monitoring the situation closely. Each student’s case will be individually assessed in line with national legislation. These are governed by the Higher Degrees by Research Policy Sections 4.5 and 4.6, and HDR Admission and Enrolment Procedures Section 6. For more information refer to the degree management website.

As per the email advice from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) on 12 May 2020, for students who had current enrolment as at 1 March 2020, the overtime fee will be waived between 4 years and 4 years and 6 months when the student provides concrete demonstration of how their research has been “adversely impacted by coronavirus restrictions.” Documented evidence must be provided. HDR students can contact the Office of Graduate Research about how to make an application by sending an email to gradresearch@flinders.edu.au.   

Can a scholarship extension be granted due to COVID-19?

The University is monitoring the situation closely. Scholarship and candidature extensions are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Six-month scholarship extensions are available – and granted – on the basis of disruptions to a research schedule. For more information refer to the higher degree by research scholarship information website. Or contact Student Finance on rhdscholarships@flinders.edu.au.

As per the email advice from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) on 12 May 2020, current holders of an AGRTPS (domestic and international) stipend may be eligible for an additional 3-month COVID-19 extension.

For students who had current enrolment as at 1 March 2020 who do not complete within three years and six months, an additional extension of 3 months can be given, moving the extension of the RTP stipend to 3 years and nine months. The reason for this extension must be a concrete demonstration of how their research was “adversely impacted by coronavirus restrictions.” Documented evidence must be provided. The normal timelines, deadlines and processes for extension requests of candidature and RTP stipends remain in place. Please contact rhdscholarships@flinders.edu.au if you have any questions.

Please note it does not apply to current holders of FURS / CSERA / FIPRS / AJ & IM Naylon and privately-funded scholarships as these are not supported by the RTP funding.

Can I get an extension for my thesis corrections?

If the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting on your ability to finalise examiners recommendations to your thesis, please email hdr.exams@flinders.edu.au  We will be able to review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

Will my thesis examination and completion be delayed?

Please continue to submit your thesis for examination as normal through Inspire.

The HDR exams team are working towards getting your thesis examination completed within the normal timeframes. If there is a significant delay we will email you individually to discuss this. You can continue to email hdr.exams@flinders.edu.au for any enquiries.

Can I still undertake HDR student professional development activities?

Yes, the Research and Employability Skills Training (REST) FLO site has topics on every aspect of candidature and numerous online options available within the topics.

All scheduled workshops will be going ahead, in an online format. As of next week, all of our workshops will be made available either through Collaborate, Microsoft Teams or WebEx, and everyone is welcome to attend. Please keep registering for workshops in Inspire as usual, and you will be provided with the Collaborate, Microsoft Teams or WebEx details before the session.

What steps is the University taking for HDR students currently undertaking an international experience as a part of their studies?

The Office of Graduate Research is working with Flinders International to ensure we are aware of the ever-changing requirements to support international HDR students and domestic students studying overseas. The University is taking steps to ensure all Flinders students undertaking an international experience as a part of their studies are safe. Please ensure you check your University email address as updates will be communicated as they become available.

I'm an HDR student and will be unable to arrive on time. What should I do?

Please call our International Student Services on +61 8 8201 2717 or email coronavirus@flinders.edu.au so we can assist you.

Where can I get support?

We understand the current uncertainty may cause some concerns and if you’re experiencing extreme distress, hardship or complexities throughout this time, please contact us so we can determine the best support possible.

The Yunggorendi Student Engagement team are available to speak to you about your academic needs, social needs or if you would like to have a chat during this difficult period.

Please call 1800 641 811 or email yunggorendi@flinders.edu.au

Other services are available to you as follows.

Indigenous Student Support Officer

Contact an Indigenous Student Support Officer for advice on course enrolment support, progress advice and advocacy, cadetships, scholarships, grants, referrals to other services and pastoral care.

  • Colleges – Business, Government and Law; Nursing and Health Sciences; Medicine  and Public Health
    Foundation Studies
    Alisha Uswatte
    Phone: 08 8201 5540
    Alisha.uswatte@flinders.edu.au
  • Colleges – Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences; Education, Psychology and Social Work; Science and Engineering
    Asami Huynh
    Phone: 08 8201 2668
    Asami.huynh@flinders.edu.au

Yunggorendi Tutorial Program

Contact us for free additional tutoring for any of your topics.

Michelle Ah Matt
Phone: 08 8201 3199
yunggorendi@flinders.edu.au

To apply for additional tutoring, please complete this form.

Academic Study Skills Advisor

Contact us for general academic skill development and advice.

Katie Maher katie.maher@flinders.edu.au
Melanie Clark melanie.clark@flinders.edu.au

Is the Yunggorendi Mande building still open?

Unfortunately, the Yunggorendi Mande building is now closed for face-to-face services, as well as the Tjilbruke Student Lounge, and 24/7 access will be suspended for students until further notice. Staff are now working remotely and the support services through Yunggorendi Student Engagement are still being offered.

Am I covered by travel insurance if I have to cancel my flights or book flights out of a high-risk country?

The University’s travel insurers have advised that COVID-19 is now considered a ‘known event’ for all countries, which means claims for costs relating to COVID-19 are unlikely to be covered by the University’s travel insurance.

Australia’s borders are now closed. Only Australian citizens, residents and immediate family members can travel to Australia. There is also a ban on all overseas travel, with few exceptions.

For staff and students’ personal travel, the University’s travel insurance does not apply. Check with your travel insurance provider and contact your travel agent or airline for refunds, rebooking fees, etc.

What if a student is unable to return from abroad?

There are currently unprecedented numbers of Australians trying to make their way home. Most countries still have arrangements in place to allow Australians to leave. But in many cases, the window of opportunity to do so is closing.  If you want to come back to Australia, and commercial flights are available, take them as soon as possible.  

Please contact your course coordinator and email coronavirus@flinders.edu.au if you’re unable to return from overseas.

 

Do I need to pay the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) in semester 2, 2020?

Yes. The Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) funds a wide range of student services and amenities that are not related to teaching activities. This includes funding the Flinders University Student Association (FUSA). This covers support programs such as O’Week activities, advocacy and welfare services, financial counselling, emergency financial assistance such as FUSA emergency grants, student loans, bursaries, food packages, petrol and bus vouchers, and support for clubs and societies. The SSAF also provides funds to cover Health Counselling and Disability Services (medical and counselling services on campus), Flinders Sport and Fitness, Careers and Employability Services, the Student Learning Support Service, the Office of Graduate Research, the Flinders Legal Centre and International Student Services.

Flinders University does not charge a SSAF for students enrolled in topics which are formally classified as online mode of attendance. This is to recognise that the majority of students who traditionally undertook these topics were not in close proximity to a campus and were not able to access many of the face-to-face services.

While the University remained open during the first half year, some of the SSAF funded services were limited. As a direct result of this, and in order to assist our students with some tangible fee relief, the SSAF was waived for the first half year. While lectures will continue to be delivered online during the second half of the year, many other teaching components have returned to, and are available on, campus. The amount of online versus on campus delivery will vary from topic to topic, however the full range of student services are now available. Student Services and Amenities Fees have been charged in the second half year consistent with the University’s Charging of Incidental Fees Policy. Eligible students can choose to defer all or part of their SSAF by completing an SA-HELP form.

You can read more about the support available in our Support and Services Directory.

No, the vaccination is not compulsory, although vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and the ones you love from COVID-19.

Currently there are no plans for this.

Currently there is no Government Directive mandating COVID vaccines for workplaces and therefore placements.  This of course may change and people need to check the Department of Health website for regular updates.

Access to any vaccine approved for use in Australia has been prioritised, ensuring those at greatest risk are vaccinated first. Specific vaccines will be administered based on availability and clinical guidance on appropriate vaccines for people. More information on the vaccines available can be found here.

It may seem vaccines were developed quickly, but researchers around the world have been working hard to develop vaccines from the start of the pandemic. They were able to speed up development thanks to the collaboration between them, scientists, manufacturers and distributors. Read more here.

You should talk with your Doctor or Health Professional or advice on your specific condition.

If you are not eligible for Medicare, you can still receive a vaccine without charge. Please attend a GP-led Respiratory Clinic or state vaccination clinic. The COVID-19 vaccine is free for everyone in Australia. You will not be charged for the vaccination or the appointment.

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Last Updated: 27 Jul 2021