Dear all

In light of the hazardous smoke conditions across the ACT and surrounds, we have decided to close the Acton, Mt Stromlo and Kioloa campuses to all but essential staff from midnight today Thursday 2 January until 9am Tuesday 7 January.

The campus is also closed to all ANU students and to all visitors who are not currently staying in campus accommodation.

There is no immediate threat to the campus and this is a precautionary measure to ensure the health and wellbeing of our community.

If you are essential staff, you will be contacted by a relevant University officer.

We'll send a further update about the campus' re-opening to you at 11am Monday via email, the web and social media.

You will be paid as per usual arrangements, and the closure does not affect your planned leave.

If you wish to work from home and can, you are welcome to do so.

Staff who are volunteering with the RFS will have access to extra leave, with ANU matching the Australian Government's 20 extra days of paid leave.

For staff directly affected by the fires, if you are unable to return to Canberra, or require extra support, the University will provide access to ex-gratia leave.

In both these scenarios, please contact HR Division for assistance [email hrd.remuneration@anu.edu.au]

With fires and smoke having a major impact across the nation, the University strongly encourages everyone to stay up-to-date with emergency advice.

The ACT Emergency Services Authority has asked that all people in Canberra and surrounds familiarise themselves with the ESA website at esa.act.gov.au or social media accounts and download the "Fires Near Me" app to their phone.

For those outside of the ACT and surrounds, please check the relevant State emergency authority website.

The ABC is the national emergency broadcaster [go to abc.net.au/news/emergency].

ANU provides all staff with access to support and counselling through the Employee Assistance program which can be reached on 1800 808 374.

Students can access support via ANU Crisis Support Line on 1300 050 327 or via SMS Text message service on 0488 884 170.

You can find additional information on mental health and wellbeing, as well as links to critical services here.

In all circumstances, please prioritise your own safety and that of your family by making sure your fire plan is up-to-date and remain aware of the danger where you are, bearing in mind circumstances can change quickly.

This is a difficult summer and is affecting many people. It is important we care for ourselves and one another as we deal with these unprecedented challenges.

Professor Mike Calford

Acting ANU Vice-Chancellor