Attending campus: current rules and next steps
Last weekend brought further welcome easing of COVID-19 restrictions across Victoria, with more activities permitted, more venues open and more people allowed to gather together. Congratulations to all students for persevering with your study journey under challenging circumstances – you did it!
We want to explain what the next few months will look like for our University community. Please remember that government and health and safety guidelines are constantly evolving, so make sure you bookmark our COVID-19 FAQs for all the latest information.
Who can currently come to campus
Access to campus remains restricted and learning in our current study periods is still online, including end-of-trimester/semester exams and final assessments.
If you’ve been attending any campus for permitted activities – practical, laboratory and fieldwork/off-campus experiences – you should continue as planned. You must also have completed the COVIDSafe module and follow Deakin’s Plan to Scan requirements when on campus.
Latest mask rules
Face masks rules have changed but they remain mandatory in some settings (unless you have a lawful reason not to wear one) and you must continue to carry a face mask with you at all times. They’re no longer mandatory when you’re outdoors – such as walking around campus – if you can stay 1.5 metres away from people.
You must wear a face mask outdoors if you’re unable to stay further than 1.5 metres away from people you don’t live with, such as at public transport stations, outdoor markets, walkways and thoroughfares.
Face masks remain mandatory when indoors – for example, using common areas like open-plan study spaces, Student Central and the Library.
We understand these rules may be confusing at times, so check out our handy diagram if you’re unsure (just click to enlarge).
Looking ahead: COVID-Normal at Deakin in 2021
While most classes and seminars will remain online in 2021, there will be opportunities for on-campus learning activities at all our campuses, particularly for hands-on, skills-based learning experiences.
Practicals, labs, studios and experiential learning will be on-campus wherever possible, with COVIDSafe measures in place. We’re currently working with our teaching teams to create new on-campus opportunities for learning and collaboration with your peers where possible.
Placements and work experience, including work integrated learning and internships, will be provided as required to meet professional registration requirements and unit learning outcomes.
We’ll provide more information about online and on-campus activities in your unit sites and Trimester 1 timetable (available February) or Semester 1 timetable (available January).
We’re looking forward to the gradual and safe reactivation of campus spaces under COVID-Normal. Subject to all guidelines, we’ll increase activities on our vibrant campuses next year, encouraging use of the libraries, study spaces, sporting facilities, support services and food hubs in a COVIDSafe way.
So in 2021, you can look forward to experiencing campus life, meeting new classmates and learning in our world-class facilities – both online and at our physical campuses.
We look forward to seeing you in 2021!
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