COVID-19 updates
COVID-19 updates
We understand many in the Monash community will be concerned about COVID-19 (novel coronavirus). We're committed to adapting our teaching and learning, campus experiences and operations to ensure the health and safety of our community. We will keep the Monash community informed as the situation continues to evolve.
You must not come to campus if you're unwell. Get tested for COVID-19 if you have any of the following symptoms, however mild – fever, chills or sweats, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose, loss of sense of taste or smell – and stay home until you’ve received a negative result. For information about testing, visit the Department of Health and Human Services website.
Last updated 16 Apr 2021 10:27am
If you have recently visited a COVID-19 hotspot or public exposure site, you must follow the Department of Health's requirements for testing and isolating, as outlined (i.e. tiers 1-3, a rating system for the level of exposure). To see where to get tested in Victoria, visit www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/where-get-tested-covid-19.
Supporting the return of all-staff to onsite work
- In line with health advice from our Chief Medical Officer, the University will commence the return of staff that fall under the Victorian Government’s high-risk health categories to onsite work, effective 23 April 2021:
- Staff aged 70 years and over;
- Staff aged 65 and over with chronic medical conditions; and
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over the age of 50.
- We look forward to welcoming these staff back to onsite work and taking another step forward in the safe reactivation of the University’s campuses and locations.
- Please note that the definition of ‘high risk’ is with respect to complications associated with having the COVID-19 virus and does not indicate the individual is at a higher risk of contracting the virus.
- As the current level of COVID-19 cases across Australia is low, as well as the risk of exposure regardless of age or health conditions, those at higher risk of becoming ill from COVID-19 can safely return to work – with appropriate precautions in place.
- Monash’s COVID Safe Plan is inclusive in its approach, ensuring all staff can attend our campuses and workplaces safely.
- Staff in the above-mentioned categories will return to working at University locations on a substantive basis, or under an approved flexible arrangement as agreed with local supervisors.
- The return does not need to be gradual, however a gradual return can be arranged through supervisors.
- Working from home arrangements for staff with poorly controlled chronic medical conditions or who are immunocompromised will continue to be considered on a case-by-case basis through their supervisors and HR.
- The University continues to safely reactivate its campuses and locations under COVIDSafe Settings. Please ensure you familiarise yourselves with our eight-pillar COVID Safe Plan, which has been developed in line with the government’s health directions and advice.
An update on QR codes
As part of our COVID Safe plan, Monash will continue to display QR codes around campus, capturing data for the Victorian Government to use for contact tracing purposes should it be required. Monash is currently transitioning to using Service Victoria's QR code throughout campus.
Last updated 16 Apr 2021 10:27am
- The Monash Chief Medical Officer is in constant communication with Australian medical authorities for the latest health and travel advice.
- We continue to monitor the situation, including the advice of the World Health Organisation (WHO), US Center for Disease Control and the Australian government’s Health Department, including states and territories.
- Students directly affected by COVID-19 can contact us at +61 3 9902 6010 or via our enquiry form.
- Monash also provides free confidential counselling support for any Monash student. If you need support at any time, please call 1300 788 336.
- If you have tested positive to COVID-19 you must follow the recommendations of your medical professional and the Australian Health Department, including the required self-isolation period.
- If you are a Monash staff member, you must also immediately notify your supervisor, and your supervisor will advise Access HR via email at hr@monash.edu or phone on +61 03 9902 0400.
- If you are a Monash student, we ask that you notify Monash Connect on 9902 6011 for further support.
- You must be cleared by a Public Health Officer and determined to be no longer infectious before you can leave your home isolation and re-enter the Monash or wider Australian community.
- For updates on Monash College's response to COVID-19, please visit the Monash College website.
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Reactivating Monash
Information about safely returning to our Australian campuses
We’ll soon be welcoming more students and staff back to our campuses, in line with advice from the Victorian Government and health authorities. It will take the combined efforts of our entire Monash community to ensure our campuses are reactivated safely – we are all in this together.
Fact sheet
Campus operations under COVIDSafe settings
View fact sheet
Work arrangements
Effective 6.00pm Friday 26 March, COVIDSafe settings will be further relaxed across Victoria following a sustained period of reduced exposure risk and low community transmission of COVID-19 – see here for the full list of changes.
From this time, 100 per cent of our workforce will be able to return to onsite work in a COVIDSafe way – with a density limit of one person per two square metres. The current 75 per cent return to work cap will be removed.
The University’s working from home (WFH) procedure continues to be available for eligible professional staff who wish to apply to WFH for part of the working week.
Professional staff who wish to continue to partially WFH must submit an online application, if not yet completed. You must submit a WFH form otherwise it will be assumed you are working onsite for the entirety of your working week. Approved requests made in 2021 will be valid until 31 December 2021 – the University will review these arrangements for 2022 based on the experience and impact of the policy during 2021. More information on how to apply and eligibility can be found in this Insider article.
Supporting the return of staff in high-risk health categories to onsite work
In line with health advice from our Chief Medical Officer, the University will commence the return of staff that fall under the Victorian Government’s high-risk health categories to onsite work, effective 23 April 2021:
- Staff aged 70 years and over;
- Staff aged 65 and over with chronic medical conditions; and
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over the age of 50.
Please note that the definition of ‘high risk’ is with respect to complications associated with having the COVID-19 virus and does not indicate the individual is at a higher risk of contracting the virus.
As the current level of COVID-19 cases across Australia is low, as well as the risk of exposure regardless of age or health conditions, those at higher risk of becoming ill from COVID-19 can safely return to work – with appropriate precautions in place.
Monash’s COVID Safe Plan is inclusive in its approach, ensuring all staff can attend our campuses and workplaces safely.
Staff in the above-mentioned categories will return to working at University locations on a substantive basis, or under an approved flexible arrangement as agreed with local supervisors.
The return does not need to be gradual, however a gradual return can be arranged through supervisors.
Working from home arrangements for staff with poorly controlled chronic medical conditions or who are immunocompromised will continue to be considered on a case-by-case basis through their supervisors and HR.
Campus facilities, retailers and study spaces
Building access
Only some of our buildings and facilities are currently open. Our campus maps will be updated as building access changes, and we encourage you to check access to specific buildings before arriving on campus.
To access an open building:
- All staff and students will need to swipe their Monash ID card on the door reader. Once you’re inside a Monash building, if you see a QR code displayed on a poster, scan it using your mobile phone and follow the prompts.
- Contractors, tenant staff, other essential non-Monash staff completing essential work, and members of the public accessing essential services on campus (e.g. post office, Monash Merchant) will be asked to scan a QR code provided at building entrances.
This helps us ensure we have accurate records and remain compliant with government directives. A range of information is required by the Department of Health and Human Services for contact tracing purposes.
Some buildings will continue to be accessible only by restricted Monash staff using an authorised Monash ID card. Additional details on building access for staff can be found here.
Closed buildings will not be available for any staff or student access. Working and studying from these buildings is not permitted.
Parking
From Monday 22 February, parking will be charged on a pay-as-you-use basis. More information can be found on the transport and parking webpage.
Study spaces
We've published a list of study spaces available on our Clayton, Caulfield and Peninsula campuses.
Food and beverage retailers
Under COVIDSafe settings, density limits in food and beverage retailers have shifted to one person per two square metres indoors and outdoors (with no cap). Venues can have up to 25 people before the two square metre rule needs to be applied.
Floor signage will indicate where you need to wait for your order while following physical distancing requirements, and hand sanitiser will be available at all retail counters.
Other retailers
Some of our campus retailers are open, including the Monash Merchant, Monash Campus Centre Pharmacy and post office. When visiting open campus retailers, make sure you follow physical distancing requirements by using floor stickers when you need to wait, and sanitise or wash your hands frequently.
Where applicable, avoid 'walk-ins' and make an appointment to avoid longer waits.
Monash Sport
Monash Sport no longer has a patron cap for indoor physical recreation and community sport, however, a density quotient of one person per four square metres applies for each space.
- Capacity limits to group fitness classes still apply.
- Fitness Centres have a density quotient of one person per four square metres.
- Up to a maximum of 100 patrons for outdoor physical recreation and community sport applies, with a density quotient of one person per two square metres.
Campus grounds
Social circles to aid physical distancing have been installed in grassy areas of Clayton campus, at Northern Plaza Lawn and Campus Park - western end, and in two locations at MRS. They are three metres wide (diameter) and spaced two metres apart and designed for individuals or groups of two people to sit inside. You must follow all government health and safety advice while using the circles, including maintaining 1.5m distance.
Libraries
All six libraries are open. For details, see the Library opening hours page.
Bring your Monash ID. Visitors without a Monash ID will need to register their visit using the QR code system for contact tracing upon building entry.
The libraries will operate as follows:
- Self-serve access for on-site collection
- A density requirement of one person per two square metres applies (with no cap).
- When physical distancing of 1.5 metres cannot be maintained, it's strongly recommended you continue to wear a face mask. You must carry one at all times.
- Increased cleaning of all communal library spaces, and maximised building fresh air intake.
For your loan due dates, check your library account in Search, or the Library tile in My.Monash.
Twenty-four hour returns are available at at all libraries. During opening hours, you can return items at any of our libraries using the returns chute inside.
You can also post items to any Monash University library in Victoria. Check the address of the library.
For further details, see the Library website: monash.edu/library/we-will-support-you
Travel
The University recommends all domestic travel is avoided unless it is absolutely essential for the performance of your work. International travel is not permitted. Monash is continually monitoring advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and will not compromise on the safety and wellbeing of staff.
Where essential domestic travel is required, the following applies:
- As at 1 June 2020, staff may travel domestically where Government guidelines allow;
- Approval for travel must be strictly in accordance with the University’s Travel Procedures;
- For travel to restricted domestic areas, staff must obtain the relevant State exemption or permit prior to booking;
- For more information on State requirements, please visit: Coronavirus COVID-19 Advice for Travellers.
After careful consideration, we've made the difficult decision to postpone Outside Studies Program (OSP) activities, initially until 1 July, 2021, except in special circumstances with approval by the dean of your faculty. Read this article for more information.
Health and wellbeing
The single most important thing we can do to minimise the spread of COVID-19 is take personal responsibility for the health and wellbeing of ourselves and others; this means you should not attend our campuses for any reason, if you are feeling unwell, and/or displaying symptoms associated with COVID-19 – even if they are mild.
A reminder that if you do attend campus displaying symptoms you may be asked to leave and get tested for COVID-19, and not return to campus until you have your test results, and are no longer feeling unwell/displaying symptoms.
We have implemented a number of initiatives to support our community to maintain physical distancing and personal hygiene, including:
- Implementing physical distancing signage such as posters and floor markings to ensure people can stay 1.5 metres apart
- Providing hand sanitisers in all buildings
- Increased cleaning in all of our buildings
Please note that body temperature checking is not used as a condition of entry to our on-campus buildings. SafeWork Australia advise that temperature testing may be of little benefit. This is because people with COVID-19 may not have an elevated temperature at the time of testing for a number of reasons including being presymptomatic or taking medication that reduces temperature. It is also possible that the person may have a temperature for another reason unrelated to COVID-19. The World Health Organisation advises that temperature checking alone is an ineffective way to stop the spread of COVID-19.
All staff have been enrolled in a mandatory OHS health module in myDevelopment. Students are also required to complete a compulsory health training unit. Please complete this module online before returning to campus.
Delivery mode for semester one, 2021
Monash University will provide on-campus learning for students in semester one in line with current State Government restrictions. As a result, it’s expected that all students based in Australia will be in Victoria and prepared to attend on-campus activities from the commencement of semester one.
If you’re currently based in Australia, there may be online options available to you, however these options cannot be guaranteed in all circumstances. Preference will be given to those students who are unable to physically attend campus due to travel and/or state border restrictions, or Federal Government COVID-19 health advice. If you require fully online options for the entire teaching period, apply for special consideration and we’ll be in touch prior to the commencement of semester one. If you apply for special consideration and your application is approved, you will remain online for the duration of the teaching period.
If you’re currently based overseas, you will be supported with online study options so you can progress in your course. You’ll be able to catch-up on any placements or laboratories that are essential to your accreditation requirements and learning outcomes once you return to campus. Some courses with accrediting bodies will have requirements for practical milestones - please contact your course coordinator for more information.
As part of the successful, phased reactivation of our campuses and our COVID Safe Plan, our November intake, summer A and B, and intensive unit students have been attending classes on campus along with staff who support these activities. We look forward to welcoming our semester one 2021 students to campus.
Events, activities and venues
- The following venues are open for University-approved public events: Robert Blackwood Hall, Alexander Theatre, David Li Sound Gallery and the Monash University Museum of Art (MUMA), with Alexander Theatre and David Li Sound Gallery also open for recording and streaming activities. The George Jenkins Theatre and The Count's are available for bookings.
- Monash’s Religious Centre is open for indoor religious gatherings and ceremonies, subject to requirements including a COVIDSafe plan and density limits. Please contact the Chaplaincy directly for services.
Essential research services
All research activities can resume and are no longer confined to essential research aligning to our four principles (as below)
- Principle 1: the storage and management of existing samples and data research, infrastructure that are temperature and environmentally sensitive;
- Principle 2: management and care of critical living resources, and the equipment and materials they depend upon;
- Principle 3: research addressing the impact of COVID-19 and research in support of the hospital and broader health system;
- Principle 4: long-term experiments or studies that otherwise would be prohibitive to restart.
Examples of research that aligns with these principles are: research to support clinical trials in serious diseases such as cancer, leukemia and lymphoma; drug discovery and development activities such as the development of inhaled oxytocin; university platforms to facilitate these activities such as MARP, the Centre for Drug Candidate Optimisation (CDCO) and the Monash Genome Modification Platform; collaborative research programs that support partners (and jobs) in health-related industries.
Additionally, any COVID-19 related research and provision of parts or supplies for equipment needed to treat patients with COVID-19; or help them to recover - like the printing of parts for ventilator machines.
Changes to semester
View fact sheet
Academic progress processes
- We adjusted how we ran academic progress during the first review period of 2020. For the second review period of 2020, we’ll be returning to the process outlined in the Student Academic Progress Policy.
- Although your fail grades may not be recorded on your academic transcript or count towards your GPA/CGPA and WAM (see grading and results update), we’ll assess your academic progress using your original grades. This allows us to continue to identify students who are struggling with their academic progress sooner and provide tailored support to get them back on track.
- Find out more about student academic progress.
Graduations
January 2021
- Applications for an in absentia graduation for domestic and international students closed on 31 October 2020.
- There’ll be a virtual celebration after January graduation, which is scheduled for 27-29 April 2021. Details of the virtual graduation were emailed to applicants on 11 March 2021.
- There’ll be an opportunity to attend an in-person celebration during 2021 (subject to any future restrictions), and these will be open to those that choose to participate in the virtual celebration. Details of the celebration events in Australia have been emailed to eligible students and will take place throughout March and April. Details of a celebration event in Malaysia will be confirmed at a later stage.
- You can now request for your hardcopy award certificate via WES.
April 2021
- There’ll be a virtual celebration for all April graduates. Those who graduate in April will receive details about their virtual graduation in mid-July.
- There’ll be an opportunity to attend a future in-person celebration (subject to any future restrictions), and these will be open to those that choose to participate in the virtual celebration. We expect it will be into 2021 when information on in-person celebration opportunities will be available.
- Applications closed 14 March. Late applications will not be accepted.
May 2021
- Applications closed on 14 March.
- There’ll be a virtual celebration for graduates who choose to graduate in absentia in May (date to be confirmed). Those who graduate in absentia in May will receive details about their virtual graduation in mid-July.
- The 2021 attendance fee is $150 - this has been updated to reflect the following changes:
- There’ll be no refreshments provided after the ceremony.
- Due to COVID-19 restrictions, each graduate will have one guest ticket for the hall and two guest tickets for the live viewing site.
More information and contact details
- Visit Graduating at Monash.
- Visit the virtual graduations campaign site.
- Contact Monash Connect for all graduation enquiries. Live chat is also available during business hours.
Fees
- The fee amount and payment due date/s are listed on your individual fees statement.
- Eligible commencing international students who discontinue their studies in semester one 2021 at Monash University due to reasons relating to COVID-19, may be eligible for a full refund if discontinuation occurs prior to census date. Students must apply for a refund and provide supporting documentation as requested. Students are required to apply for a refund within two days of withdrawing.
- If concerned about paying your fees, please contact Monash Connect.
International campuses
MALAYSIA
- Monash University Malaysia's main campus is closed until further notice due to the Movement Control Order (MCO) introduced by the Malaysian Government. Only a limited number of pre-approved research staff and students can access our main Campus and the Johor Bahru Campus for critical research functions.
- Please visit this website for updates.
PRATO
- Monash University's Prato Centre is temporarily closed to the public. Remote working arrangements have been made for staff, as appropriate.
- The University has cancelled mobility programs for Summer (including Summer B) and semester one and two 2021. Updates when they occur will be available on the Monash Abroad Portal.
- We will continue to review the situation in line with Italian and Australian Government advice.
SUZHOU
- Our campus at Suzhou, China, in partnership with Southeast University, is open as normal.
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY BOMBAY
- Our campus in Mumbai, India, in partnership with the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, is temporarily closed. Remote work and study arrangements have been made for staff and students.
Placements/WIL, internships and secondary schools outreach programs
Placements and school outreach programs
- Your Faculty Placement Office will be in contact if your placement is affected.
- Individual organisations may have different strategies for dealing with COVID-19. Please follow all health and safety protocols provided by your placement provider, and continue to maintain good hygiene in line with health advice from the University.
- For school placements, each school will have their own set of measures in place to deal with COVID-19, framed on the advice of the Victorian Department of Education and Training (where applicable) and Federal and State health authorities, including the Department of Health and Human Services.
- Monash will ensure compliance to these measures when sending our students and staff on placements. For those schools visiting a Monash campus, schools must be able to provide assurance that no visiting staff or students have returned from a country or region that is at high or moderate risk of COVID-19, or been in close contact with a confirmed case.
Faculty of Education:
- We understand that recent announcements regarding COVID-19 and the impact on schools may be a cause of concern for you. We're working closely with the Victorian Government, partner placement providers and the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) to navigate our way through this unprecedented and challenging time.
- Effective Tuesday, 24 March, placements for students within the Faculty of Education have been postponed. We ask that students please thank their mentors and negotiate the completion of their remaining placement days once schools reopen.
Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences:
- Information about clinical placements can be found here.
- Should I be on placement/will my placement continue?
- COVID-19 advice is changing rapidly. Your placement provider will advise whether it is appropriate for you to be on placement, and there may be certain instances where you will be required to leave.
- With the changing developments, we understand you may have concerns about being on clinical placement. Currently, the Department of Health and Human Services are supporting ongoing placements until further notice, with limited exceptions, such as in COVID emergency departments.
- If you’re feeling unwell, please excuse yourself from your clinical placement. You’ll need to:
- Follow health advice
- Complete the special consideration form online.
- Contact your placement provider and let them know.
- Will my unit/site coordinator be in touch if my placement is affected?
- Yes - the Faculty will be in touch with you if they know of your placement being affected.
- However, advice can change rapidly. You should follow the instructions of your placement provider. If your placement provider notifies you that your placement is affected, please notify your unit and/or site coordinator.
- What happens if my placement is cancelled?
- Where possible, we will make alternative placement arrangements for you. Your clinical or site coordinator will be in touch with more information about alternative arrangements. You will not be expected to source your own placement.
- You won't fail as a result of cancelled placement due to COVID, but it may impact your course progression. Your unit coordinator can provide further advice about what flexible arrangements can be made available in your course.
- I am due to graduate this year. Will I have enough placement and learning?
- Monash recognises that many students may experience disruptions to placements and other learning as a result of COVID-19, and this is true of students in all health and medical faculties across Australia. As such, your course leads are in close contact with accrediting bodies and employers to develop flexible solutions to ensure you are able to get into the workforce.
- Our Faculty leaders are working with government, peak bodies and other institutions to develop solutions. It is our intention, in these unique circumstances, to be as flexible as possible regarding attendance hurdles in the context of COVID-19. Further information will be made available as matters progress.
- Can I opt out of my placement?
- Where your placement potentially puts you in contact with confirmed COVID-19 patients, you can choose to opt-out, however we cannot guarantee the effect this will have on your course progression.
- Our programs have varying levels of flexibility due to varied accreditation requirements. As such, it's important to stay in contact with your Unit and Course Coordinators who will let you know which aspects of your studies are mandatory.
- Visit the clinical placements information page for more information.
- Should I opt in to work in a health service/be part of the "surge workforce"?
- During this time, your skills may be in demand by our health services. It is your choice to be part of the health service surge workforce. If you choose to opt-in, as a Monash student, we will continue to support you and ensure you remain fully informed.
- Please consider your own circumstances, such as your health and study commitments, before making a decision.
- We’re currently working with our health services and government on these arrangements, as well as making sure you have the resources and support needed to do so safely. If you do choose to opt-in, we will provide guidelines and checklists to support you. Check back here soon for more information.
- Will my unit/site coordinator be in touch if my placement is affected?
Internships
- Students who are currently enrolled in an internship unit as part of your studies, please direct any queries to your faculty internship/work integrated learning coordinator.
Personalised study journeys for students based offshore
- Monash is committed to ensuring students, currently based overseas, are able to start their studies in 2021.
- We’ve developed personalised study journeys for students who can’t make it to Australia, so they can complete their course and graduate.
- Eligible students have been individually contacted to review their personal study plan, which has been developed for them by a faculty course advisor.
- If you are required to undertake practical assessments to progress your studies, arrangements will be made for you to do so once you're able to return to campus - please contact your faculty for further details. If you're in your final semester, your faculty will make alternative arrangements to ensure you can complete your studies and will contact you directly.
Course progression contingent upon clinical placements and practicum
- All the above applies except for some health, medical and pharmacy courses in which face-to-face practicum and/or clinical placements must be completed for progression, accreditation and graduation. Please contact your course advisor.
Technology to support remote learning while you are overseas
- We’ve created an online guide with step-by-step instructions to help students access and login into these platforms and tools remotely.
- The guide includes instructions for lots of important and common tasks, including how to:
- Connect to Monash’s new, secure, VPN option.
- Access Moodle or specialised software for your course.
- Connect to the library and learning resources.
- Watch a video for class.
- Join a video or audio meeting with your lecturer or tutor.
- We’ve made the guide available as a webpage and a PDF document, so students can download it and save it to their device to access whenever and wherever you need to.
- For any technical difficulties during your studies, students contact eSolutions.
Support while you study remotely
- Monash is capable and experienced when it comes to flexible teaching. Students enrolled in these units will have an excellent educational experience, in parallel with those participating in on-campus programs.
- The flexible units will utilise a range of teaching strategies to support students to be active and engaged with their learning.
- Coursework materials are available on Moodle unit sites.
- When studying online, your academic may advise you of synchronous learning via zoom. Check Moodle for details of when and how to access.
- Academics and course advisors will be in regular contact with our students as they study.
- If students are having difficulty with their studies, for any reason, they can reach out to us to provide the best advice on what they need to do to succeed in their studies.
Exams and assessments
- We’ve made some changes to our assessment and exam processes in response to COVID-19, to support our students while also maintaining academic integrity.
Assessment format:
- In-semester tests and end-of-semester exams may use an eAssessment platform to conduct remote eExams (using your own device in your own home).
- You can learn more about what to expect and device specifications on our eExams webpage.
- Check the format of your exams in your assessment timetable by checking the reference field next to your unit code. Click on the venue description for more details. Unless you are notified otherwise, all exams are based on Australian Eastern Daylight Savings Time (AEDT).
- Monash will not conduct invigilated exams unless the faculty or an external accrediting body has determined it is necessary to ensure academic integrity, but will use alternative and comparably rigorous assessments.
- Online invigilated exams will be supervised by Monash staff, not an external provider. If your timetable shows you have a department run exam, it means your faculty or teaching department is coordinating this assessment. Check your unit's Moodle page or contact your Chief Examiner for more information.
Academic Safety Net working group outcomes:
- To support you in achieving the best possible academic outcome during the disruption caused by COVID-19, with the close involvement of elected student representatives, we’ve made temporary changes to grading and results for eligible teaching periods.
- The recommendations that were voted on and approved by Academic Board are:
- Supplementary assessment: If students achieve a mark of 40-49, they can choose to complete supplementary assessment in all the units that meet these criteria. The previous cap of two units for supplementary assessments is relaxed.
- Existing threshold hurdles: Any existing threshold hurdles will be applied at 40, not the current mark of 45, including exams.
- Withdrawing from units with no fail grade: After results are released, students can choose to exclude the results of all passed units studied in eligible teaching periods from the calculation of their Grade Point Average and Weighted Average Mark. This is based on the principle that the disadvantage experienced by the student is experienced in all units, not just select units. Students who opt to exclude their results will have each unit which they passed recorded as SFR (Satisfied Faculty Requirements) on the transcript.
COVID-19 arrangements for students enrolled in MSA teach-out courses, offered in cooperation with Monash University, will be communicated directly by IIE MSA, the campus owner and operator.
Graduate Research Students
View fact sheet
Information for new applicants
If you’re applying for admission and/or scholarship
- Monash welcomes applications from prospective students. To access the most up-to-date information on admissions and scholarship application closing dates, please visit our how to apply webpage.
- This website will guide you through the admission steps and also includes anticipated timeframes for considering your application.
Information for commencing students
Getting started with your enrolment
- If you need information on how to enrol, visit our Monash Graduate Research Office How to Enrol page for details.
- This page outlines what need to complete to finalise your enrolment by the expiry date stated in your offer letter.
Getting started with your research: induction and orientation
- Because of the current COVID-19 situation, we’ve continued our induction processes online wherever practical, normally conducting these via Zoom.
- Different faculties and enrolling academic units undertake induction differently; your academic unit and/or faculty will contact you with further details, and you can also contact them directly if you have any questions. (Refer to our faculty contacts page).
- In the meantime, we’d encourage you to complete your Monash Doctoral Program – Compulsory Module assigned to you and available in myDevelopment.
- Make sure you speak to your supervisory team about getting started, and the focus of your research project during this period.
If your commencement has been impacted by COVID
- We understand the COVID-19 global health crisis has impacted the ability of many students to travel to Australia and commence their studies due to border closures.
- The reopening of Australia’s borders to international visitors, including international students, is the responsibility of the Federal Government. Monash University continues to engage with peak bodies and State and Federal Governments in exploring ways to enable international students to return to Australia to commence and/or continue their studies on campus.
- Refer to the Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date information on current Australian Government restrictions on entry to Australia.
- If you have a current offer of admission (with or without a scholarship offer) and you’re not able to commence your enrolment due to COVID-19, we recommend you review the options available to you and discuss these with your supervisor and faculty to determine the most appropriate action:
- Application for travel exemption: Refer to the Department of Home Affairs for further information and instructions on how to apply : https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au/travel-restrictions
Please discuss this option with your supervisor and Academic Unit as they will need to provide you with a supporting letter.
- Apply for offshore/remote enrolment: This option is available to students who have been granted their student visa. Please discuss the suitability of this option with your supervisor first, as your research may not be able to commence remotely, and then your faculty. If you have been awarded a Monash University stipend (living allowance) scholarship, this will not commence until (and only if) you relocate to Victoria, with the duration of scholarship support reduced by the period of prior remote enrolment. Tuition scholarship will however commence.
- Apply for deferral: Submit a request to defer/change your commencement date, which if approved, will mean we’ll send you a new offer letter. Given the current boarder closures, we recommend you discuss an appropriate commencement date with your supervisor.
English language update for graduate research students commencing 2021
Monash University Academic Board has approved a COVID-19 temporary variation of the time limit on English language test validity for graduate research applicants.
Test validity has increased from two years to three years for all faculties (with the exception of Law due to its specific requirements), and this variation applies to graduate students commencing in 2021.
Managing your scholarship
- If you’re enrolled and located within Melbourne on a scholarship administered by Monash, you’ll continue to receive payments as scheduled on a fortnightly basis.
- Any variations to your scholarship (such as applications for paid leave) are also being processed as normal.
- If you’re on a scholarship funded by an external body, sponsor, faculty or academic unit, we recommend you seek advice from that funding body or your academic unit or faculty about the conditions of your scholarship.
- If you have general questions about the conditions of your scholarship and what options may be available to you, we’ve set up a new resource page to help and guide you.
Planning your research during the current COVID-19 situation
- We understand that 2020 has been challenging for everyone, especially for students trying to progress their research while juggling other responsibilities and commitments including families, schooling and caregiving.
- Planning your research and being able to maintain momentum has been hard for many students. Below are some practical strategies to assist you:
- If you're enrolled through Monash Australia, we encourage you to refer to the Latest information section of the COVID-19 fact sheet. If you're enrolled through Monash Malaysia, please visit the Monash Malaysia site for updates on COVID-19.
- Continue to maintain contact with your supervisors, conducting your regular meetings either online via platforms such as Zoom or Skype, or face-to-face (in accordance with Monash’s COVID Safe Plan). If you are enrolled through Monash Australia and wish to have face-to-face contact with your supervisor/s, please seek advice first from your faculty on any faculty-specific requirements in relation to on-campus attendance. When on-campus, you must adhere to the health and safety strategies in Monash’s COVID Safe Plan.
- If you haven’t done so already, it’s important you contact your supervisors and put in place a work plan to manage your enrolment over the next six months, and review any existing plans.
- In developing a new work plan (or re-evaluating an existing one), consider reflecting on your current situation to determine if you need to make any changes to your research given current ongoing restrictions, agreeing on an alternative course of action where your research activities are (or continue to be) delayed.
- Consider all the variables that comprise key elements of your research and determine if they are able to progress during this time (i.e. ethics applications, industry placements, accessing libraries and archives, undertaking fieldwork, etc.).
- If it’s not practical for you to continue your research at this time and you want more information on what options are available to you, refer to the section below on Converting to part-time enrolment and Applying for Leave. You can also go to our new resource page to help you understand your candidature and scholarships.
Progress milestones
PhD and Research Masters Milestone Review Panels (MRPs) are continuing. Milestones may be conducted face-to-face or via Zoom video conferencing. Monash has detailed information and support for using Zoom here.
If you are enrolled through Monash Australia and wish to have face-to-face contact with your supervisor/s, please seek advice first from your faculty on any faculty-specific requirements in relation to on-campus attendance. When on-campus, you must adhere to the health and safety strategies in Monash’s COVID Safe Plan.
It’s important that you talk to your supervisors in the lead up to all scheduled milestones, and especially important in the context of COVID-19. A checklist for graduate research students undertaking Milestone reviews during the COVID-19 situation is now available on the website. This form is used by Milestone Review Panel Chairs to help speak to students and their supervisory teams about research progress in the context of COVID-19. Below are some questions included on the checklist for you and your supervisory team to consider when planning for your milestone under the current circumstances:
- Has your research project been impacted by COVID-19? (for example, is there any experimental work that you are required to do, such as data collection, interviews, fieldwork, travel, conference participation, which has been delayed)? If so, have you had a discussion with your supervisors about what this impact means for your research project (for example, does the project need to be re-scoped)?
- If your project has had to be re-scoped, have you agreed on an action plan to achieve this?
- Does your research project rely on access to external resources (archives, laboratories, industry partners or funding)? If so, have you been able to continue to access these resources?
- Have you experienced any delays with other activities that form part of your research project (ethics applications; liaising with industry partners/other research collaborators)?
- Do you have any requirements for ongoing access to computers; specialist software and/or equipment and/or sites (labs; tissue or seed banks; archives; libraries; repositories; field sites); and human resources (other students; lab technicians etc.)?
- Is your research timeline feasible under the current COVID-19 situation?
If your milestone can’t proceed and needs to be rescheduled, rest assured you can apply for an extension to a milestone. The COVID-19 situation is an acceptable reason for seeking an extension.
Monash Doctoral Program (MDP)
- Professional development: TheMonash Graduate Research Office, faculties and other units (e.g. Library) continue to deliver professional development training via webinar. This is in addition to the large volume (over 300 hours) of existing online training within myDevelopment under the topic of Graduate Research. A dedicated google site lists online and webinar activities offered by the Monash Graduate Research Office. We’ll provide updates on upcoming workshops and online content via our regular Graduate Research student newsletter.
- Coursework units: If you are required to complete coursework as part of the Monash Doctoral Program, your faculty graduate research office can assist you with your enrolment queries.
Extending your thesis submission date
- In recognition of these challenges, we’ve put in place a series of measures to support students during this time.
- If you need to apply for an extension to your thesis submission date due to COVID-19, it’s important that you provide details about how COVID-19 has impacted your research as part of your application. That way, we can process your application more quickly. COVID-19 also meets our definition of compassionate and compelling circumstances for international students on Australian student visas.
- Specific details on how we are supporting you are outlined below, and you can also visit our new understanding your candidature and scholarships website to learn more about your thesis extension options.
- If you’re an international student on an Australian student visa, and you’re not sure how an extension may impact on your student visa, please visit Monash’s student visa page for information. Please note that if you apply for an extension of enrolment and do not hold a tuition fee paying scholarship you will be charged tuition fees.
Supporting our doctoral students
- If you are a current Monash Australia student and you were enrolled on or prior to 8 April 2020, we’ve automatically applied an extension to your thesis submission date, meaning your thesis submission date has been adjusted to 3.5 years equivalent full time, pro-rated for part-time students.
- If you want to view your adjusted thesis submission date, visit your Research Enrolment Summary.
- If you need to apply to extend your thesis submission date beyond 3.5 years equivalent full-time due to COVID-19, you can apply for a further extension to your thesis submission date up to 4 years equivalent full-time, pro-rated for part-time students.
- As a temporary measure, we are also being more flexible in considering extensions to your thesis submission date beyond the maximum four years equivalent full-time. Extensions of this type are only considered under exceptional circumstances up to a maximum of 4.5 years equivalent full-time. We consider COVID-19 an example of an exceptional circumstance where it’s impacted your research.
Supporting our research master’s students
- If you’re a current research master’s student, you can apply for a thesis extension.
- As a temporary measure, we are also being more flexible in considering extensions to your submission date beyond the maximum two years equivalent full-time. Extensions of this type are only considered under exceptional circumstances up to a maximum of 2.5 years equivalent full-time. We consider COVID-19 an example of an exceptional circumstance where it’s impacted your research.
Graduate Research Completion Award (GRCA)
- We’ve introduced a supplementary Graduate Research Completion Award to support graduate research students in their final year, who have been significantly impacted during COVID-19 and are close to submitting their thesis for examination.
- Monash Australia doctoral and masters by research students who are close to submitting, may be eligible to apply for this award which provides funding at the RTP/MGS stipend rate of up to 12 weeks equivalent full time (doctoral students) and six weeks equivalent full time (masters by research students). If you would like further information on this award, including eligibility, selection criteria and the application process, we encourage you to visit our page dedicated to this scheme.
Converting to part-time enrolment
- Given current circumstances, we understand that students may need to consider converting to part-time enrolment for a specific period of time.
- If you’re considering this as an option, we encourage you to speak to your supervisory team first to determine if part-time enrolment is an option for you.
- If you are on a Monash scholarship (such as a MGS or RTP Stipend), please be aware there may be implications to your scholarship when converting to part-time (for example, under ATO requirements, part−time stipends are taxable). Students seeking taxation advice should refer to the Australian Taxation Office. Students on any other scholarship, including scholarships funded by other funding bodies, should first check with them to confirm part-time enrolment is permitted.
Applying for leave
- If you are not able to undertake your studies at this time due to COVID-19 disruptions or caring responsibilities, you can apply for a leave of absence.
- This leave is available to all graduate research students, including international students on an Australian student visa, as COVID-19 is considered grounds for leave under compassionate and compelling circumstances. In your application, just remember to provide details on how COVID-19 has impacted your research.
- For more information, the leave options are outlined in the Doctoral and Research Masters handbooks (Chapter 4) and you can also visit our new understanding your candidature and scholarships website to learn more about options that may be available to you.
- Other ways we are supporting you include:
- Expanding sick leave entitlements to cover leave for those with family caring responsibilities during COVID-19 restrictions.
- Permitting students to request unpaid leave beyond the 12 month maximum for an unpaid leave of absence due to COVID-19.
Study away/travel grants
Study away with or without a travel grant
- Australian citizens and Australian permanent residents are restricted by the Federal Government from travelling overseas from 25 March, 2020.
- This prohibition is aligned with the Government's decision to raise the DFAT smartraveller travel advice to level 4 - do not travel overseas.
- No applications for international travel will be approved until further notice.
- Domestic travel should be avoided but will be considered where the laboratory or fieldwork is absolutely essential and formally approved by the Dean. Please contact your faculty office prior to completing a Study Away/Travel Grant form. Review the information on student travel insurance and ensure you attach a completed Travel Plan with your application. Travel grants are available for approved domestic travel.
- If you need to request an extension to a research overseas period, please email your Faculty Office.
- Please refer to the Monash COVID-19 Fact Sheet for more information.
Internships and placements
- If you are undertaking an internship managed by APR Intern, these are continuing to operate. APR Intern is liaising closely with organisations where internships are currently in place or are pending commencement.
- If you are on an internship or placement, make sure you follow the directions of the organisation and University at this time.
Joint PhD programs
- If you are currently enrolled in a joint award program, it’s important that you follow the advice and/or direction of Monash and the partner university at this time, and remain informed of any restrictions that apply at the partner.
- Make sure you also maintain contact with your Monash main supervisor and seek their guidance if you have any questions.
- Where your mandatory residency requirement is impacted by current travel bans, it’s important that you discuss your research project requirements and timelines with your supervisors to accommodate potentially delayed or shortened residency at the partner.
- If you need advice specific to your situation, the Monash Graduate Research Office team can provide you with assistance.
GRIP programs
- If you are enrolled in a GRIP program, it’s important that you follow the directions of the partner organisation and the University at this time. Please maintain regular contact with your Monash supervisory team, and seek their advice if you have any questions or concerns.
Graduate research examinations
- Thesis examinations are continuing as normal and submission is available here.
- As always, we recommend that your supervisors contact potential examiners in the first instance and ascertain their ability to undertake the examination process at this time.
- If you are not ready to submit, you can apply for a thesis submission extension (refer to Extending your thesis submission date above).
Contacting the Monash Graduate Research Office and your faculty
- The Monash Graduate Research Office (MGRO) is currently operating virtually, however is available to assist you with any queries as usual from Monday to Friday during business hours.
- If you have any question relating to the administration of your enrolment, you can contact:
- The Monash Graduate Research Office (MGRO)
- E: mgro-candidature@monash.edu
- T: +61 3 9905 3009
- Your faculty (refer to the faculty contact lists)
- The Monash Graduate Research Office (MGRO)
Health advice and safety measures
View fact sheet
General health information
- All students and staff must follow the health advice of the Department of Health and Human Services and that of the Monash Chief Medical Officer.
- If you have recently visited a COVID-19 hotspot or public exposure site, you must follow the Department of Health's requirements for testing and isolating, as outlined (i.e. tiers 1-3, a rating system for the level of exposure). To see where to get tested in Victoria, visit www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/where-get-tested-covid-19.
- As of 12.01am Monday, 16 March, all people who arrive in Australia are required to self-isolate for 14 days. If you are experiencing symptoms, wear a surgical mask if you have one to help avoid potential spread of any illness, separate yourself from others, and call the Department of Health and Human Services dedicated COVID-19 hotline on 1800 675 398 (24 hours, 7 days a week). If you have severe symptoms, such as shortness of breath, call 000 and request an ambulance, and inform the paramedics where you have recently been.
- Further guidance on home isolation is found here.
- Monash University’s Health Service continues to take direction from the local medical authorities and will follow the established COVID-19 reporting framework.
- Follow basic hygiene rules to prevent further spread:
- Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze (with a flexed elbow or tissue, not your hand).
- Wash your hands often.
- Avoid touching your face and mouth after touching surfaces.
- Don't spend time with people who are sick.
- Don't go to work or attend campus if you feel sick.
- Staff and students must continue to check the advice as it is likely to be updated regularly as this situation develops.
Face masks
- Effective 6.00pm Friday 26 March, face masks will no longer be required in retail settings including the Campus Centre at Clayton campus, but you must continue to carry one at all times and wear it when visiting University Health Services, or when travelling in a Monash vehicle including intercampus buses.
- Where 1.5 metres physical distancing cannot be maintained, wearing a face mask is strongly recommended.
What to do if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19
- If you have any symptoms such as fever, chills or sweats, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose, and loss of sense of smell or taste, however mild, you should seek advice and get tested. To get further advice, call the 24-hour coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398, or your general practitioner. In certain circumstances, headache, muscle soreness, stuffy nose, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea may also be considered.
- It’s important that we continue to keep our University community safe, and we all play a role in ensuring we can continue to deliver excellence in education and research. It’s important that any staff or students who are presenting with any potential symptoms of COVID-19 – including mild symptoms like a scratchy throat or runny nose – get tested and refrain from coming to the University until their test results are known.
- If you are sick, stay home. If someone else is sick, please discuss with a staff member.
- For general information on COVID-19, you can also contact the Department of Health national hotline 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 1800 020 080.
- On campus, University Health Services (UHS) has modified its operations and now includes a Fast Track Clinic on the Clayton Campus only, for COVID-19 telehealth consultations and testing. If you need advice on COVID-19, please call the Triage nurse on 9905 3175. For after-hours advice, call the coronavirus hotline 24/7 on 1800 675 398.
- We have also developed infographics for staff and students to help you navigate the Department of Health and Human Services and Monash Chief Medical Officer’s recommended health advice.
What to do if you suspect you have been in close contact with a confirmed case
- If you suspect or are concerned you may have come into close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19, separate yourself from others and call the dedicated Victorian Department of Human Health and Services COVID-19 hotline on 1800 675 398 (24 hours, 7 days a week). Here you will receive detailed information on what you need to do next, including what to do if you need testing, if you are required to isolate yourself or if you can continue your usual activities.
- A suspected case is someone who has symptoms or signs of COVID-19 and who is being tested for infection but has not found out the results of the tests yet.
- Until the results are known, there is a risk that you could have the COVID-19 infection and could spread the virus to other people. While it may take a few days for the test results to be returned, you must not attend campus until you receive your test results, and have been informed it is safe for you to resume your usual activities. Refer to the DHHS suspected case factsheet.
- Staff who have been identified as a suspected case should immediately notify their supervisor who will advise Access HR on hr@monash.edu or via phone on 9902 0400.
- If you have been notified by the DHHS that you are a close contact of a confirmed case, separate yourself from others. DHHS will give you detailed information on the next steps, including what to do if you need to arrange to be tested.
- You must not come to campus, and must isolate in your home for 14 days until you are informed by public health authorities that it is safe to return to your usual activities. Refer to the DHHS close contact factsheet for more information.
- ‘Close contact’ is defined as having face-to-face contact for more than 15 minutes with someone who has a confirmed case of COVID-19, or alternatively sharing a closed space with them for more than two hours. Close contact can happen in many ways, but examples include:
- Living in the same household or household-like setting (for example a hostel).
- Direct contact with the body fluids or laboratory specimens of a confirmed case.
- Being in the same room for two hours or more.
- Face-to-face contact for more than 15 minutes in some other setting, such as in a car, in a lift or sitting next to them on public transport.
If you have been identified as a suspected case
If you have been notified by the DHHS that you are a close contact of a confirmed case
What to do if you are tested for COVID-19 and the test is negative
- If you have been tested for COVID-19, it may take a couple of days for the test results to be returned to you. During this time, you must isolate yourself in your home until your test results are received. If your test result is negative, you will no longer need to remain in isolation and can return to your normal activities once you are well again.
- For more information on self-isolating, see here. There is no need for others in the house to quarantine unless you are confirmed to have coronavirus.
- If you test negative, your doctor or the clinic you were tested at will advise you of your result.
- Refer to the Department of Health information for people with a suspected case fact sheet for more information.
What to do if you are tested for COVID-19 and the test is positive
- Your doctor or the clinic where you were tested will contact you by phone or SMS to advise you of your results, regardless if it is positive or negative.
- If you test positive, whether or not you have symptoms, you will need to immediately self-isolate – you should have already been isolating at home while waiting for these results. You will be contacted by a public health worker from the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for advice on next steps.
- If you have tested positive to COVID-19, you must follow the recommendations of your medical professional and the Australian Health Department, including the required self-isolation period.
- If you are a Monash staff member, you must also immediately notify your supervisor, and your supervisor will advise Access HR via email at hr@monash.edu or phone on +61 03 9902 0400.
- If you are a Monash student, we also ask that you notify Monash Connect on 9902 6011 for further support and follow-up.
- People who have had close contact, as identified by the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services, including family members and people you live with will be required to isolate themselves for 14 days from their last contact with you.
- If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as shortness of breath:
- Call 000 and request an ambulance.
- Inform the ambulance officers that you have a confirmed case of COVID-19.
- You must be cleared by a Public Health Officer and determined to be no longer infectious before you can leave your home isolation and re-enter the Monash or wider Australian community.
- Refer to the Department of Health information for people with a suspected case fact sheet for more information.
Campus safety measures
The health, safety and wellbeing of our community is our top priority, and we continue to be guided by the health advice of the Victorian Government, and the University’s Chief Medical Officer.
Below is a consolidated list of the strategies and actions we have in place to manage COVID-19. More information can be found in our COVID Safe Plan.
- No staff, student or member of our community can visit any of our campuses if they’re feeling unwell and/or displaying the mildest of symptoms associated with COVID-19. They MUST get tested immediately and stay home until they have received a negative test result, and are fully recovered.
- Strict physical distancing measures have been implemented across all of our campuses to ensure a distance of 1.5 metres between people can be maintained. This includes signage and floor markings, and a reduction in the maximum occupancy of closed spaces on-campus. Furniture has also been positioned to ensure a 1.5-metre distance between people can be maintained.
- Individual work activities are to be assessed by faculties/divisions, and designed to maintain physical distancing so far as practicable. For essential activities that require people to come within 1.5m of one another, a risk assessment must be undertaken and additional safety measures implemented including reducing the time of the activity, the size of groups and the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE). The University’s OHS team is available to assist with risk assessments.
- Health alert posters have been installed across our campuses and on digital screens in all central teaching facilities to reinforce basic hygiene rules (e.g. washing your hands regularly; cough and sneeze etiquette etc.) to prevent further spread of COVID-19
- Hand sanitiser stations have been installed across all buildings to allow staff and students to sanitise their hands before they enter and exit.
- In addition, all faculties and divisions are asked to provide hand sanitiser in their local offices/areas to allow staff and students to regularly sanitise their hands during the day.
- To protect the Monash community’s health and safety, all staff and students must:
- Swipe their Monash ID card on the door reader or scan the QR code every time they enter a building to assist the University to meet its reporting obligations to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) should there be a positive COVID-19 case on-campus.
- Increased cleaning in all of our buildings by staff wearing Hi-Vis pink jackets, following Monash's COVID-19 Cleaning Specifications Plan which meets the DHHS guidelines. This includes:
- Wiping down high-touch surfaces in all areas across campus at the start of each day, such as faculty/division and common areas.
- Continued cleaning of high-touch surfaces in the common areas throughout the day, which includes wiping down of light switches, doors handles, lift buttons, stair balustrades, flat table surfaces in the retail and public spaces.
- Additional cleaning of restroom facilities, including wiping down of the doors, sinks and hand dryers.
- To support the University’s increased cleaning regime:
- All facilities and divisions are asked to provide alcohol wipes in their offices and areas to allow staff and students to regularly wipe down their work station and equipment - particularly shared-use equipment and spaces.
- Laboratory areas are asked to provide appropriate cleaning materials to allow staff and students to clean their work areas and shared equipment and infrastructure.
- BPD provides all central teaching spaces with cleaning materials for the academics to clean the lectern, computer and audio-visual equipment. The cleaning materials are also provided to allow students to clean down the desks/tables, chairs and any shared equipment.
- All faculties are to provide cleaning materials in their teaching and collaboration spaces for academics and students to use.
- To support the University’s increased cleaning regime:
- All staff, students and visitors must carry a face mask at all times. When physical distancing of 1.5 metres cannot be maintained, it’s strongly recommended to continue to wear a face mask both indoors and outdoors.
- The central ventilation systems have been changed to maximise the fresh air intake of the system and increase the number of air changes in a building.
- Daytime air purging of the buildings has been programmed to provide a full fresh air change in the buildings three times during the day. Air filter systems are regularly changed.
- Staff and students are encouraged to undertake activities outside, where possible. Meetings, discussion groups etc. which do not require technology should ideally be undertaken outside if the weather permits.
- The University has a detailed management plan in place for a positive or suspected case of COVID-19 within the community, and has established a Crisis Management Team (CMT) who meet regularly to manage the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on the University and its community.
High-risk health categories
In line with health advice from our Chief Medical Officer, the University will commence the return of staff that fall under the Victorian Government’s high-risk health categories to onsite work, effective 23 April 2021:
- Staff aged 70 years and over;
- Staff aged 65 and over with chronic medical conditions; and
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over the age of 50.
Staff in the above-mentioned categories will return to working at University locations on a substantive basis, or under an approved flexible arrangement as agreed with local supervisors.
The return does not need to be gradual, however a gradual return can be arranged through supervisors.
Working from home arrangements for staff with poorly controlled chronic medical conditions or who are immunocompromised will continue to be considered on a case-by-case basis through their supervisors and HR.
Travel advice
View fact sheet
Key travel restrictions
- Australian citizens and Australian permanent residents are restricted by the Federal Government from travelling overseas from 25 March, 2020.
- This prohibition is aligned with the Government's decision to raise the DFAT smartraveller travel advice to level 4 - do not travel overseas.
- All requests for international travel exemptions made by Australians and other nationalities, for travel in or out of Australia, are managed by the Australian Border Force. Exemption requests may be made on the basis of:
- Essential or necessary travel
- Travel in the national interest
- Travel on compassionate and/or humanitarian grounds.
- All requests for international travel exemptions made by Australians and other nationalities, for travel in or out of Australia, are managed by the Australian Border Force. Exemption requests may be made on the basis of:
- International travel restrictions are imposed on all people arriving in Australia.
- If you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident and need Australian consular assistance, you can find more information on the smartraveller website.
University-related travel
Domestic travel
- As the impact and response to COVID-19 continues, including the imposition of state and territory government restrictions, travel may be subject to change at short notice across domestic borders.
- Accordingly, the University directs that domestic travel be avoided unless it is ‘absolutely essential for the performance of the traveller’s work’ and formally approved on that basis by the travellers Portfolio Head or Dean, prior to booking.
- The traveller must check and ensure compliance with all relevant and current state and territory travel restrictions.
- All travel must be strictly in accordance with the University’s procedures.
International travel
- Effective 25 March, 2020, staff are not permitted to book any university-related international travel. This is consistent with advice from the Australian Government's Department of Health and smartraveller.
- This advice has been issued for two key reasons:
- Potential higher risk of contracting COVID-19 overseas.
- Travel becoming more complex and unpredictable. Entry or movement restrictions are changing often and quickly.
- Monash is continually monitoring advice from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and will not compromise on the safety and wellbeing of staff.
- If you have any queries related to existing bookings or travel requests, including deferred travel, please contact the Monash Security Office at travelsecurity@monash.edu.
Travel insurance
There is different University travel insurance coverage dependent on whether you booked before, on or after Friday 6 March 2020 (AEST). In all instances, you will need to contact your travel agent, airline and accommodation provider to alter arrangements and seek a refund before submitting a claim.
Bookings made prior to 9am Friday 6 March 2020 and travelling within 60 days of this booking (students and staff)
- If you need to cancel or amend your travel for reasons permitted under the insurance policy, there is no change and losses will be reimbursed. This includes for COVID-19-related reasons. Insurance cover includes:
- Loss of deposits, cancellation costs, curtailment and disruption (including COVID-19 related disruptions).
- Medical costs and losses from cancellation, disruption or curtailment in the event of contracting COVID-19.
Bookings made after 9am Friday 6 March until 12pm Tuesday 17 March 2020 and travelling within 60 days of this booking (students and staff)
- If you need to change or cancel arrangements for any reason associated with COVID-19 before you travel, other than you have contracted the illness, (for example, an organiser cancels an event due to COVID-19 or flights are cancelled) losses incurred are not covered by the University travel insurance policy. This includes loss of deposits, cancellation costs, disruption costs and curtailment costs.
- If you need to cancel your travel prior to the scheduled travel date due to contracting COVID-19 or being required to be in self-isolation, losses of deposits, cancellation costs, disruption costs and curtailment costs are covered due to illness.
- Should you contract COVID-19 whilst travelling, you will be covered for medical expenses and associated curtailment costs under the University travel insurance policy.
- There are some instances where travel losses may be incurred that are not covered by the University’s travel insurance. The University will review requests via the hardship support process. Ensure you keep receipts and communications with travel suppliers.
Bookings made after 12pm Tuesday 17 March 2020
- If you purchased or made booking arrangements on or after 12 pm 17 March 2020, or embarked on travel commencing 12pm 17 March 2020, you will not be covered for any claim and/or loss arising due to COVID-19. This includes loss of deposits, cancellation costs, disruption and medical and/or evacuation.
Study Abroad
Students currently overseas (Australian campuses)
- According to the latest advice from the Australian Government, Australians are restricted from travelling overseas at this time.
- The University recommends that Monash students studying overseas return to their home country where practicable.
Students planning overseas study for Summer and Semester 1 and 2, 2021 (Australian and Malysian campuses)
- The University has cancelled mobility programs for Summer (including Summer B) and semester one and two, 2021 and is not approving new requests to study overseas prior to 31 October, 2021 at this time.
- This includes exchange and independent semester abroad programs, global study tours, global work integrated learning and HDR study away programs.
- If you have an active application for exchange, independent semester abroad or another overseas program, Monash Abroad will contact you to provide advice and possible alternative options.
- If you require an overseas study component to course or unit complete, please speak with your faculty as soon as possible about alternatives and options for meeting your course requirements.
- If you’re a HDR student planning to travel after 31 October, make sure you consult the Monash Graduate Research Office.
Students planning to study overseas in semester one, 2022
- While student exchange and independent semester abroad programs won’t be offered until semester two, 2022, we’re considering alternative programs with Monash’s international campuses, our partner, the University of Warwick in the United Kingdom, and locations where travel is expected to restart safely and in time for study overseas for semester one, 2022. Updates (when they occur) will be available on the Monash Abroad Portal.
Students planning to study overseas in 2022 (Australian and Malaysian Campuses)
- If you have or are planning to apply for semester two, 2022 exchange or an independent semester abroad, we don't recommend:
- Making travel/flight bookings which cannot be easily changed;
- Making non-refundable payments;
- Quitting your part-time job;
- Cancelling any current leases or other accommodation; or
- Paying deposits at your host institution. If you are being asked to make holding deposits for accommodation, please liaise with the coordinator at your host institution to discuss alternative options.
Completing students finishing at Monash and leaving Australia
- Check with a reputable travel agent concerning the status of your flight/s. It may be difficult for you to get current flight information without the support of a travel agent at this time (websites are not reliable because the information is changing rapidly).
- Check and register, if possible, with your home country embassy or consulate for information about repatriation flights that might be happening.
- If your student visa is due to expire before you are likely to be able to leave Australia, consider applying for a visitor visa or another visa which you are eligible for that allows you to extend your stay.
Students currently in Australia
If you leave Australia at the conclusion of semester two, you may not be able to return in time for semester one 2021 and that may impact your ability to progress your studies. Currently, Australian borders remain closed to international students, with few exceptions.
Read key travel restrictions for more information.
Support for students
View fact sheet
Students living on campus
Monash Residential Services (MRS) continues to operate for students wishing to live on-campus.
We acknowledge and understand that during this period of growing uncertainty, some students wished to return home to family and friends. As such, students who wished to cancel their 2020 residential agreement with MRS and move out of their Hall were given the option to do so without financial penalty, on the provision that rooms were completely vacated and keys were returned. Residents who chose to depart in 2020 were given priority access to return to on-campus accommodation in 2020 (to an equivalent room/studio) if they wished to do so.
In response to COVID-19, Monash Residential Services (MRS) has adapted its operations to protect the health and wellbeing of residents including delivering an extended range of online community engagement programs and activities; increasing security in our residences in all halls; maintaining fully resourced Residential Support Teams for 24/7 support and supporting any residents required to self-isolate.
Monash Residential Services must adhere to all Victorian Government Department of Health restrictions in relation to COVID-19 in order to support the health, safety and wellbeing of the residential community.
The below Department of Health restrictions within MRS accommodation are effective as of 6.00pm Friday 26 March 2021:
Capacity
Capacity limits on bedroom/studio apartments are no longer required. Residents are reminded of their obligations as outlined in the Conditions of Residency.
Communal spaces
The University’s Chief Medical Officer has, and continues to be, in consultation with the Department of Health (DH) in relation to Victorian Government COVID-19 restrictions and their application within the Monash Residential Services (MRS) environment.
- You must adhere to all room capacity limits as displayed on the entrances to each communal space.
- Communal spaces may be accessed by visitors.
- No time limits apply to communal space use.
- Keep at least 1.5 metres between yourself and others at all times and remember to practise good hygiene in communal spaces.
- Peninsula Residential Village residents may use the communal spaces on the ground floor of Gillies Hall in accordance with capacity limits. Anywhere else in Gillies Hall may only be accessed by a Residential Village resident as a visitor of a current Gillies Hall resident.
Cleaning
In response to COVID-19, Monash Residential Services (MRS) has adapted its operations to protect the health and wellbeing of residents. This includes implementing additional cleaning in all communal bathrooms, toilets and common areas within halls. Permanent sanitiser stations have also been installed in each hall.
For the shared ‘household’ accommodation style in the South East Flats and Peninsula, MRS has provided residents with cleaning supplies, instructions and cleaning equipment including: bucket, dust pan, toilet brush, toilet cleaner, cloths, anti-bacterial spray, floor cleaner and gloves.
You can also find out more about the University’s campus safety measures on the COVID-19 updates website.
Department of Health correspondence/policy
Monash Residential Services (MRS) has not set any of the COVID-19 restrictions. However, it is our role to ensure government directives are strictly adhered to.
MRS and the University have been working with the Department of Health (DH) throughout this year via the University’s Chief Medical Officer.
At all times, Monash has highlighted the circumstances in our residences and worked with the DH to find the best way possible to implement the numerous health requirements. The health and safety of all our residences is our top priority throughout this time and beyond.
MRS are not trying to enforce additional restrictions to those already mandated by the DH.
Dining
Victorian Government guidelines for restaurants and cafes do not apply in Monash Residential Services (MRS) as it is a communal living environment.
The Halls Cafe remains open for take-away only.
'Household' classification
The Department of Health (DH) has directed that Monash Residential Services (MRS) halls are considered communal living environments, rather than households.
Masks
Face masks will no longer be required in retail settings, including the Campus Centre at Clayton campus, but you’ll still need to carry one at all times and wear it when visiting University Health Services, or when travelling in a Monash vehicle including intercampus buses.
Where 1.5 metres physical distancing cannot be maintained, wearing a face mask is strongly recommended.
Face masks are mandatory when travelling on public transport or when traveling in a commercial passenger vehicle (unless a lawful exemption applies), by visitors to a hospital and by visitors to a care facility (while indoors)
Any person diagnosed or suspected of having COVID-19, or who is a close contact of someone diagnosed with COVID-19, must wear a face mask if leaving home/accommodation for a permitted reason, such as medical care.
Mental health support
A range of mental health support services are available to Monash Residential Services (MRS) residents, including free confidential counselling via video or phone consultation. To make a booking, call (03) 9905 3020.
See this resource for more information on the support services available.
Other
The MRS sports field can be used in line with capacity restrictions shown on the entrance. Keep at least 1.5 metres between yourself and others at all times.
MRS BBQ areas are open.
Outbreak
The University has a detailed management plan in place for a positive or suspected case of COVID-19 within the community, and has established a Crisis Management Team (CMT) who meet regularly to manage the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on the University and its community.
Outdoor
Up to 200 people can gather in public from any number of households. Infants under 12 months are not included in the cap
Whilst at MRS large gatherings of residents must comply with the MRS Conditions of Residency.
Rent
Monash Residential Services (MRS) accommodation fees are very competitive and are 25 per cent less than market rates. We’re not offering reduced rent for residents.
Reporting/enforcing
If you see a resident breaking any Victorian Government COVID-19 regulations, please report this to your RSTO.
Restrictions will be enforced by members of the Residential Support Team and MRS Services Personnel.
Any breach of the restrictions will be managed under Section 13.2 of the MRS conditions of Residency for all MRS properties except (Briggs Hall and Jackomos Hall)
Any breach of the restrictions will be referred to the office of student conduct for residents of Briggs Hall and Jackomos Hall.
Studios
The Urban Community is considered a communal living environment as each hall has a common room, games room, laundry, two kitchens on each floor and an outdoor BBQ/garden area.
Visitors/partners
Up to 100 visitors can visit a home in a day (infants under 12 months are not counted in the cap). Visitors may be from any number of households and may visit either together or separately. Front and backyards are considered part of the home.
Upon entry into a hall/household, all visitors must register using the QR code posted at the entrance (residents from other MRS halls may scan their Mpass on the card reader when entering a hall to register, rather than using the QR code). Residents are responsible for ensuring their visitor registers.
Your visitor may stay overnight (if approved by the College Head and as per section 9 of the Conditions of Residency). ‘Overnight guest forms’ can be found here.
Residents are reminded of their visitor/guest obligations as outlined in the Conditions or Residency.
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Residents are reminded to notify a member of their Residential Support Team if they are not well or have been tested, to enable MRS to provide appropriate support.
Student visas and confirmation of enrolment
- Monash understands students may be concerned about the impact an increase in online study might have on their student visa.
- The Australian Government has confirmed that Monash can deliver more than one-third of a course via online study to international students during the COVID-19 pandemic, for students both in Australia and overseas.
- We understand from the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE) that qualifications would be recognised including an online study component if students are currently enrolled at the University and their on-campus study has been disrupted by COVID-19, with them having to continue their study with the university through online means during the disrupted period. Students are advised to maintain records of their communications with the University to provide CSCSE with documentation, which verifies that they have indeed been impacted by the COVID-19 situation.
- Depending on your individual course, assessments will be adapted to suit the mode of study. Please contact Monash Connect if you’d like to discuss any changes to how your course is being delivered.
Implications for your enrolment:
- The Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) that is issued by Monash is the University’s guarantee to the Department of Home Affairs that a student is enrolled in an approved Monash course, and on receipt of a CoE from Monash the Department issues the student visa. Only the Department of Home Affairs can issue or cancel a student visa.
- Once issued, there are specific visa conditions that must be adhered to. Students must remain enrolled in an approved course, and the CoE issued by Monash provides the evidence of this enrolment.
- Because Monash is now able to deliver more of your course online, the University will manage your enrolment in the following ways:
Monash won’t make any changes to your CoE if:
- You want to study online in your home country and intend to return to Australia;
- You are currently in Australia, but want to return home and study online for a period of time before returning to Australia to complete your degree; or
- You are currently in Australia, and your course has been moved to online study.
Monash will cancel your CoE if:
- You return home to complete your course with no intention to return to Australia. If you change your mind later and wish to return to Australia and your visa has been cancelled, you will need to apply for a new student visa.
Visa application and date changes
- If you’re waiting on a decision on a visa application and have a revised CoE from Monash, you should advise the Department of Home Affairs of the new CoE. This is to ensure your student visa will reflect the adjusted dates on your most recent CoE.
Other student visa changes
- The Department of Home Affairs has temporarily increased the number of hours that individuals on a student visa can work, in certain fields of work.
Other visa enquiries
- The Department of Home Affairs is the only agency with the power to issue or cancel a student visa. If you have questions about the status of your visa or your application, you should contact the Department of Home Affairs. Further information is available on their website.
Changes to international student visa arrangements:
- The Australian Federal Government announced the following visa changes for international students on 20 July:
- The Government will recommence granting student visas in all locations lodged outside Australia. This means when borders re-open, students will already have visas and be able to make arrangements to travel.
- International students will be able to lodge a further student visa application free of charge, if they are unable to complete their studies within their original visa validity due to COVID-19.
- Student visa holders studying online outside Australia due to COVID-19 will be able to use that study to count towards the Australian study requirement for a post-study work visa.
- Graduates who held a student visa will be eligible to apply for a post-study work visa outside Australia if they are unable to return due to COVID-19.
- Additional time will be given for applicants to provide English language results where COVID-19 has disrupted access to these services.
Will online study be recognised by the Chinese Government?
- The Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE) released a statement on 3 April, 2020 confirming that online study undertaken due to the impacts of COVID-19 will be recognised. Please see below translation of the statement released by the CSCSE:
- Our Centre understands and supports measures some overseas universities have implemented to help Chinese students finish their studies, such as the extension for enrolment, offering online courses, flexible final assessments and thesis' in response to COVID-19.
- If Chinese students undertake online study for part of their course due to difficulty in returning to campus, or the resultant time remaining offshore not meeting normal course requirements, these won't be factors affecting their degree certification.
- Students are advised to practise proper self-protection, follow the special measures implemented by your university at this particular time, and keep records of relevant university notices and communications.
- In response to concerns from students, our Centre will publish up-to-date information in a timely manner during COVID-19. We have set up a consultation hotline for enquiries regarding overseas qualification certification. Students can call 010-62677800 or email renzheng@cscse.edu.cn.
Support for international students
- We continue to work with the Federal Government to ensure the safe return of our overseas students who require hands-on, practical skills learning or placements to complete their studies.
- We are also exploring opportunities at our campuses in Sunway, Malaysia, and Suzhou, China, subject to any border restrictions of those countries, that will allow students to complete their degree in these locations, should they wish to do so.
Positive or suspected COVID-19 case notification: Information for supervisors
- If you are a manager/supervisor and have been advised by a student that they have tested positive to COVID-19, or are a close contact of a person who has tested positive to COVID-19, you must notify the University by contacting Monash Connect on 9902 6011 as a matter of urgency. Refer to the notification process guide and flowchart for detailed information.
Evidence of course completion for employment
- A number of students completing their Monash studies may need to rely on evidence of course completion prior to starting their employment.
- Please call Monash Connect and we will issue a letter of special circumstance for you to provide to your employer, explaining the delay in course completion.
Student enquiries
- If you have questions about enrolment or changes to semester that aren't in the fact sheet, please contact Monash Connect to discuss your personal circumstances. The University’s free student counselling service is also available 24/7 to all Monash students on 1300 788 336.
English Language Proficiency (ELP) for graduate research students
Monash University Academic Board has approved a COVID-19 temporary variation of the time limit on English language test validity for graduate research applicants.
Test validity has increased from two years to three years for all faculties (with the exception of Law due to its specific requirements), and this variation applies to graduate students commencing in 2021.
The COVID-19 temporary variation relates to Regulation 5(7)(a) in the Monash University (Academic Board) Regulations.
Support for staff
View fact sheet
Transitioning back to onsite work
- Effective 6.00pm Friday 26 March, 100 per cent of our workforce will be able to return to onsite work in a COVIDSafe way – with a density limit of one person per two square metres. The current 75 per cent return to work cap will be removed.
- The University’s working from home (WFH) procedure continues to be available for eligible professional staff who wish to apply to WFH for part of the working week.
- As a result of staff feedback in the Thrive@Home survey, and in line with the operational requirements of the University, greater workplace flexibility has been incorporated into staff working arrangements in 2021.
- Eligible professional staff continue to have the opportunity to partially work from home (WFH) where their role allows them to do so.
- Full-time staff may request to WFH up to two days per week, and part-time staff who work a minimum of 0.6 FTE may request to WFH up to one day per week. Please note that requests for flexibility beyond these thresholds will only be considered on a case-by-case basis, and will require further approvals from the University.
- Academic staff are required to attend campus for the delivery of education and research; however, they retain their previous flexibility to self-manage their on- and off-campus presence, subject to University requirements taking priority.
Staff leave provisions
- We have a range of leave options available to staff in response to the potential impacts of COVID-19 including if you are required to self-isolate, if you come into close or casual contact with someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19, or if you need to care for family members affected by COVID-19-related events, such as temporary school closures.
- The COVID-19 Staff Leave Guidelines (Monash-only access) and Physical Distancing and Alternative Work Arrangements (Monash-only access) include a range of flexible options for staff who are working from home and have responsibilities for assisting their children with home-schooling, including the provision of a day a week carer’s leave.
- Where you are required to isolate and this is a result of personal travel to a travel restricted country following the Government declaring all countries as level 4 (do not travel), you will not be eligible to receive paid isolation leave under any circumstances.
- The University is committed to its efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19 in the community. Whilst isolation leave is not an entitlement available to casual and sessional staff under the University’s Enterprise Agreement, the University has elected to extend access to isolation leave to casual and sessional staff who have been confirmed as having contracted COVID-19 or have been in close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 or have been identified as a suspected case of COVID-19. The maximum total isolation leave that can be accessed is 14 calendar days inclusive of any economic stimulus package provisions provided by State or Federal Governments. Additional information can be found in the casual and sessional COVID-19 leave guidelines (Monash-only access).
Positive or suspected COVID-19 case notification: Information for supervisors
- If you are a manager/supervisor and have been advised by a staff member or contractor that they have tested positive to COVID-19, or are a close contact of a person who has tested positive to COVID-19, you must notify the University by contacting Access HR on 9902 0400as a matter of urgency. Refer to the notification process guide (Monash-only access) and flowchart (Monash-only access) for detailed information.
Staff enquiries
- Our fact sheet provides information for staff about working from home arrangements, leave provisions, changes to campus operations, health advice and more. Please discuss your personal circumstances with your supervisor or contact Access HR on (03) 9902 0400. The Employee Assistance Program is available 24/7 to all Monash staff on 1300 360 364.
Thought leadership
Read our latest news as well as expert commentary and research on COVID-19.
