Staying Safe on Campus

We are keen to welcome more people back on our campuses. It’s important though, that we work together to ensure our campuses are safe places to learn, work and visit. There are simple steps we all need to follow to be COVID-Safe, as outlined below.

Latest NSW restrictions (updated 7 July 2021)

  • NSW Government restrictions are currently in place until 11.59pm on Friday 16 July 2021. The University remains open during restrictions, but any classes that were scheduled to be delivered face to face (e.g., tutorials, workshops, practicals) have been moved to online or are postponed. All staff and students should work/study from home, unless you are unable to and it is essential to be on campus.

Inform the University if you are tested or isolating

Don’t forget, it is important to notify the University if you have been advised to self-isolate or have been tested for COVID-19. Please contact the Coronavirus Support Hotline on the details provided below, or by emailing whs@westernsydney.edu.au.

Before you attend campus

  • Please check the latest NSW Government advice regarding restrictions and mask-wearing requirements
  • Do not come to campus if you are unwell, have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 within the past 14 days, or have been directed by NSW Health or a medical practitioner to isolate.
  • All staff must have completed the mandatory training module ‘Reducing the Transmission of COVID-19 at Work’, available through MyCareer Online, as well as a refresher module every 12 weeks.

Returning to campus

  • All staff and students are required to scan a QR code when arriving on campus. You can use any QR code posted around buildings and classrooms and you only need to check in once per campus per day.  This is so that the University can provide accurate information to NSW Health in the event of a positive case.
  • Visitors attending the University must continue to register with Campus Safety and Security upon arrival, check in using the QR code provided and provide their mobile number to aid with any contact tracing needed.
  • Most smartphone cameras can scan QR codes, but you may need to download a QR code reader app via Google Play or the App Store. Staff and students who are not able to scan QR codes can check in online, using the relevant campus link.

Physical distancing

  • When on campus you must follow the physical distancing rules and stay at least 1.5m away from other people. You must also observe any instruction given via signage and floor markings.
  • Students and staff should avoid queuing and gathering at entry and exits to teaching areas.

Wearing masks

  • Until 11.59pm on Friday 16 July 2021 NSW Government restrictions mean it is mandatory for all staff, students and visitors to wear a face mask when indoors, including in offices, classrooms and food outlets on campus, as well as on University shuttle buses. Otherwise, the advice is outlined below.
  • Be prepared - You may be required to wear a mask anytime, any campus, unless you are otherwise exempt. The NSW Government has advised that COVID-19 spreads more easily indoors and in settings where you can’t physically distance, so it is important you carry a face mask with you at all times. Face masks are strongly recommended as outlined below and also as advised by the NSW Government. As restrictions and mandated mask-wearing guidelines can change, so please keep up to date with Government recommendations.
  • At all other times, it is strongly recommended

    • Where 1.5m physical distancing cannot be maintained – this includes indoor settings such as shuttle buses, eateries, classrooms and on-campus events.

    • The previously mandated circumstances for wearing a mask on campus continue to apply, for example as a condition of entry in clinics on campus; in medical, clinical practice and other classes; and for first aid responders on campus.

Please refer to the government information on face masks for details on types of masks available, how to wear and remove your mask correctly and other related resources.

Practising good hygiene

  • Wash your hands as soon as you arrive on campus and regularly throughout the day. Wash your hands before and after eating, going to the toilet, or after touching anything in communal areas, for example handles, rails and buttons.
  • Clean your work space before and after use
  • Exercise good sneeze/cough hygiene. Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing with a tissue or a flexed elbow. Discard the tissue straight into a bin, and wash your hands.
  • Avoid using shared kitchenettes and items such as cups, glasses and cutlery. Bring your own crockery, utensils and stationery from home, and take them home. Avoid sharing your food, drinks and stationery with others.
  • Avoid physical greetings such as hand-shaking, hugs and kisses.

More information