Renewed focus and optimism

A message from the Chief Operating Officer Dr Stephen Weller.

As many of us return to work following leave over the Christmas and New Year period, I would like to offer everyone a warm welcome back and wish you well for the year ahead.

As we are all aware, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to present many challenges, which we will face together as a university community. However, the new year also brings with it the opportunity for optimism and renewed focus.

Working arrangements

A reminder that we are all due to return to campus on 27 January, in line with any approved flexible working arrangements. We will continue to review this approach in line with public health measures.

An updated approach to flexible working is also planned for 2022 and Chief People Officer Anna Phillips will provide further information on Monday 24 January.

Please note, in Victoria, staff, students, and visitors are required to be fully vaccinated to attend campus. Staff are required to provide a vaccination declaration via the Service Central online form (staff) and students via InPlace (students).

ACU continues to strongly encourage staff, students, and the campus community to be fully vaccinated, including getting your booster when you are eligible.

Please also familiarise yourself with ACU’s approach to COVID-safe campuses before returning to campus.

Help is available

I know that the ongoing challenges of the pandemic may continue to cause disruption and anxiety for many of us.

While we look forward to reactivating our campuses this year, I appreciate this may be a challenging transition, particularly for those who have been working from home for significant periods of time.

If you need support during this time, please know that help is available. You can speak to your supervisor, contact HR, reach out to our confidential Employee Assistance Program, or get in touch with Campus Ministry. I know the ACU community will continue to support each other this year.