Further to communication we sent out last week, we now have clearer information about the State Government’s arrangements for students enrolled at Curtin University who are interstate domestic, in-country overseas or overseas.
On 29 January 2022, the State Government released COVID Transition (Border Requirements) Amendment Directions (No 1), which amend the Directions that were released on 26 January 2022. Returning Students Directions (No 3) were also released which replace the Returning Students Directions (No 2) which were published on 25 January 2022.
These amendments to the Directions change the position for students who enter Western Australia (WA) via another State or Territory of Australia to attend university:
- Overseas students who arrive in Australia after 12:01am on 5 February 2022 will not be ‘approved travellers’ and therefore will not be allowed to enter WA.
- Overseas students who arrive in Australia before 12:01am on 5 February 2022 and domestic students will be able to enter WA from now without any minimum period spent interstate (they and their immediate family members who are captured by the approval are required to self-quarantine for 14 days when they enter WA in addition to meeting other entry requirements).
- Students who had their ordinary place of residence in WA in the last 2 years and are returning to permanently reside in WA can still enter after 5 February 2022 (subject to the same additional requirements for entering WA, including the requirement to self-quarantine for 14 days).
There have been no changes to the position of students attempting to enter WA directly from overseas, who (amongst other restrictions) will still be subject to the international arrival cap and would need to quarantine for 14 days, with at least 7 days in hotel quarantine.
Our overseas students are important members of Curtin University and make a significant contribution to both our vibrant student experience and our local community. I can assure you that, despite this set back, I will continue to do everything I can to lobby the State Government to welcome you back/to WA with the care and consideration you deserve, as soon as possible.
We are exploring all options available that will allow students to commence or continue their studies for Semester 1, some of which may include beginning your course online, where available, or starting your course via one of our global or Australian partners before transitioning safely to WA.
I can also reassure you that any scholarships you were eligible for as part of your offer or study at Curtin will remain in place and we will continue to explore further ways to support you in your studies.
Finally, I can assure you that the team here at Curtin are working very hard to keep you informed of all changes to the State Government’s border arrangements, so that you will be able to commence or recommence your studies in a safe and secure way. I understand that the recent changes have been confusing and unsettling to you and to your families.
If you have any questions about your own circumstance, we are here to help, please contact Curtin Connect.
Warm regards,
Professor Harlene Hayne
Vice-Chancellor
