As I shared last week, our goal is to ensure our timetabled learning and teaching activities can occur as planned. Knowing the potential for COVID-19 to disrupt these plans, we prepared for various scenarios to ensure there would be continuity of learning and teaching at Murdoch University.

The State Government recently announced upgraded public health and social measures which will take effect from 12.01am Thursday, 3 March. Within these, measures of particular importance to the higher education sector include: 

• A two square metre rule and 150-person capacity limit indoors or outdoors for higher education facilities. 
• A two square metre rule and 500-person capacity limit for outdoor public venues and events, with mask wearing.  

We are currently assessing how these measures will impact Murdoch University. As we had anticipated these measures being introduced at some point, the vast majority of timetabled classes will take place as scheduled, although to adhere to the above capacity limits, some classes may be moved into different teaching spaces.

As such, I encourage you all to actively check myMurdoch Learning (LMS) for any updates from your unit coordinators and refer to your personal calendars in MyMurdoch for the most recent timetable for the classes you have enrolled in. 

The health and safety of everyone in our Murdoch University community is our number one priority. In maintaining learning and teaching continuity, we have been sure to follow direction of the WA Government to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in the Murdoch University community. 

You can do your part to minimise the spread of COVID-19 by wearing a mask, scanning into all building on campus using the SafeWA or ServiceWA app, practicing good hygiene and maintaining 1.5 metres of physical distance between yourself and others as you move around campus. 

As always, if you are feeling unwell or have been told you are a close contact do not come to campus – stay home and get tested.  

Should you test positive for COVID-19, it is important you let your unit coordinator know as soon as possible and complete the COVID-19 Case Report Form. Your unit coordinator will work with you to develop an alternate plan to ensure you are able to complete your studies if you are unwell. 

Kylie Readman

Deputy Vice Chancellor Education and Equity