Sadly over the holiday period, and as we commence 2020, Australia has witnessed horrendous devastation as a result of numerous bushfires burning across Australia. The Curtin community stands with our fellow Australians touched by these events and as a University, we’re here to help all affected to rebuild and recover.
Our thoughts, and deepest sympathy, are with all those who have lost family and friends in the fires. We are deeply saddened by the loss of wildlife, stock, places of cultural significance, property and the damage to the environment as a whole.
We are inspired by the brave work of the firefighters, emergency services and community members valiantly working to assist all those affected by the unfolding of these catastrophic events. We also have a number of our University community volunteering in various capacities and I commend them for their work.
Curtin University is committed to supporting the Australian communities affected by the bushfires, and our students and staff who have been impacted.
If you are affected by the bushfires in any way, there are practical ways Curtin can support you and this assistance is available for as long as you need it.
Access to Curtin’s Counselling Services
If you need support in processing the emotional impact of the bushfires, or you are supporting family or friends who have been impacted, we encourage you to access counselling support through Curtin’s Psychological and Counselling Service. The service is available to all Curtin students regardless of your location and is free of charge. Please visit Curtin’s Psychological and Counselling Services website or call 08 9266 7850.
Academic and assessment support
Academic support and special consideration for assessment is available if you have been impacted by the bushfires. If you don’t have access to laptops, resource materials, phones or email as a result of emergency evacuation, or these have been lost in the fires, please contact Curtin Connect as soon as you are able and we will work with you to find a solution.
Support to re-enrol
For students who have been unable to re-enrol due to the bushfires please contact Curtin Connect as in these special circumstances we will extend deadlines for re-enrolment.
Access to financial support
Curtin have pledged to provide bursaries and financial resources to assist you if your ability to undertake study has been impacted by the bushfires. If you are unable to pay your fees by the due date as a result of the fires and subsequent impact upon your community, you can apply for a payment extension or instalment plan. Please contact Curtin Connect to discuss your options on 1300 222 888.
More information on additional resources and support is available. If you have any questions or need advice, our Curtin Connect team is here to help you.
- Phone Curtin Connect on 1300 222 888 (Monday to Friday, 8.30 am – 4.30 pm AWST)
- Submit an enquiry online.
The devastation caused by these fires is deeply distressing for all Australians. I encourage you to take care of yourself and those around you at this difficult time, and to reach out if you need support.
Professor Jill Downie (PhD)
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic
Curtin University
Education Commissioner Australian National Commission for UNESCO
