Update on novel coronavirus (COVID-19)

^{14 February 2020}

Dear Student,

Monash is continuing to monitor the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) situation and is following advice from the Australian and Victorian governments.

This week, the Australian Government announced an extension of existing travel restrictions for people entering Australia from China for another seven days to 22 February.

Monash had already deferred the start of semester for the majority of programs until 9 March for an online program and 16 March for an on-campus start. If the travel ban is lifted on 22 February, this means the majority of our students still in China should be able to return to Australia in time for a 14 day self isolation prior to returning to campus. There are some exceptions to this start date as some courses may commence earlier. Refer to the online fact sheet for details about these exceptions.

The postponed supplementary, deferred and summer exams will now be held between Monday 9 and Friday 13 March. Students affected by travel restrictions or in mandated self-isolation during the week of exams will be provided with options to undertake an eExam supervised online.

The Australian Government has advised the temporary travel ban will be reviewed on a weekly basis. If travel restrictions are not lifted on 22 February, we will work with affected students individually to determine a personalised study plan, which may include remote and intensive study options.

We’re committed to ensuring affected students are able to start their semester one studies and be fully up to date by the end of 2020.

I encourage you to continue to refer to our fact sheet and dedicated website, which are being regularly updated to reflect changes. We will email you with updates as the situation evolves.

Monash provides free confidential counselling support for any Monash student. If you need support at any time, please call 1300 788 336.

More information

• Smartraveller travel advice
• Department of Health update
• Update from the World Health Organisation
• Monash fact sheet 
• Advice from the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services
• Information for university and vocational education students and staff arriving from Hubei Province, China, Department of Health
• Novel coronavirus frequently asked questions, Victorian Department of Health and Human Services 

Kind regards,

Professor Susan Elliott AM
Deputy Vice-Chancellor & Vice-President (Education)