Thank you for your engagement with the On Campus newsletter this year. It’s been our pleasure to cover all your news, stories and achievements. 

The ANU Corporate Communications and Engagement team wish you and your loved ones a safe and joyous holiday season. 

The University shutdown is from COB Tuesday 24 December 2024 to Wednesday 1 January 2025, reopening on Thursday 2 January 2025.

From the On Campus Team

Photo credit: Jessica Elliott

In 2024, ANU College of Law alumna, Jessica Elliott, graduated top of her Master of Laws cohort at Harvard. In this interview, Jessica talks about what this outstanding achievement means to her and how studying at ANU prepared her for Harvard.

Read more: ANU Law alumna graduates top at Harvard

Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but it's also important to stay safe while enjoying the season. Whether you're hitting the beach, going for a hike, or just lounging in your backyard, here are some essential tips to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy all summer long. 

Hydration 

Staying hydrated is crucial during the hot summer months. Dehydration can sneak up on you, especially when you're being active outdoors. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty.  

Road safety 

Summer often means road trips and more time spent driving. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition before hitting the road. Check your tires, brakes, and fluid levels. Always wear your seatbelt and make sure all passengers do the same. Avoid distractions like texting or eating while driving and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Sun safety 

Protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays is essential. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and reapply every two hours, or more often if you're swimming or sweating. Wear protective clothing, such as hats and sunglasses and seek shade during the peak sun hours between 10am and 4pm. Don't forget to protect your lips with a lip balm that has SPF. 

Swimming safety 

Swimming is a great way to cool off, but it comes with its own set of risks. Always swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards. Never swim alone and keep a close eye on children at all times. Learn basic water rescue skills and CPR in case of emergencies. Avoid alcohol when swimming or supervising swimmers, as it can impair your judgment and reaction time.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a safe and fun-filled summer. Stay hydrated, drive safely, protect your skin and swim smart.

Staff and students will no longer be required to source and display ANU disability parking permits. ANU will now only require the display of an Australian Disability Parking Permit or Temporary Australian Disability Parking Permit.

Learn more: Disability Parking Permit process changes

The 2024 Vice Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence in Education provide the University with the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the remarkable contributions of our educators.

The landscape of education is constantly evolving, and the achievements we highlight through these awards reflect the dedication, innovation and passion of the ANU learning and teaching community. 

Read more: The 2024 Vice Chancellor's Awards for Excellence in Education 

The University is pleased to introduce eduroam - a secure, worldwide roaming Wi-Fi service that can be used when travelling to other participating institutions worldwide.

Designed for the international research and education community, eduroam is now available to all ANU staff, students and researchers. 

How to Connect: 

- Open your Wi-Fi settings on your device 

- Select the eduroam network 

- Connect using your ANU email address and password 

While ANU-Secure remains the primary and preferred Wi-Fi network on campus, eduroam is available as an alternative. It is especially useful when travelling to other participating institutions. 

Learn more: Eduroam

We’re thrilled to announce the establishment of the McCusker Institute—a groundbreaking initiative designed to give students the chance to tackle real-world challenges, make a positive social impact, and grow as community-minded leaders.

Thanks to a generous $5 million gift from the McCusker Charitable Foundation, along with support from the National Priorities Industry Linkage Fund, the McCusker Institute will connect students, staff, and community partners through innovative learning activities that drive real change.

Starting in Semester 1, 2025, the McCusker Institute’s SoCIETIE curriculum initiative will offer hands-on opportunities to work on meaningful projects with community-sector organisations. Whether you're passionate about solving complex societal problems, or building skills that align with the ANU graduate attributes, this is your chance to get involved and make an impact.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Institute’s leadership, activities and how to apply. Learn more about this exciting initiative at https://mccuskerinstitute.anu.edu.au/

Dendy Cinemas Canberra and On Campus have come up with the perfect activity to enjoy over the Christmas break. Opening in mid-December the Dendy Canberra IMAX offers the ultimate film destination. Combining state-of-the-art IMAX technology and Dendy’s signature boutique atmosphere.  

On Campus readers can receive a 15 per cent discount on all IMAX tickets with the code ANU15. 

To apply the discount: At the 'Cart' tab of the checkout process the relevant film information will be displayed. On the page there is a tab underneath the pricing to 'Add Gift Card, Voucher, Promo Codes'. 

Terms and conditions: IMAX ticket codes are valid until Saturday 1 February 2025.  

Help is available if you need it. If you are dealing with a personal or University-related issue, the University encourages you to seek support through the ANU Student Safety and Wellbeing team by emailing student.wellbeing@anu.edu.au or calling 02 6125 2211, Monday to Friday, 9am - 4pm.

You can also visit our Urgent Support page for a list of 24/7 and crisis support options.