UTS response to Bondi Beach attack

We are deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic events that occurred at Bondi Beach yesterday.

Our thoughts are with the victims, their families and everyone affected by this terrible act of violence and terrorism in our city.

We condemn the violence and extend our heartfelt support to the Jewish community, to our Jewish staff and students and to all other members of our community impacted by this horrendous action.  UTS stands with them following this abhorrent attack during Chanukah, a celebration of light and hope.

At a time meant for peace and reflection, this attack on a peaceful community gathering in our city is especially painful.

I know that many of you will be feeling distressed and finding it difficult to focus on work or study. Please take the time you need to look after yourself, and seek support from available services.

The safety and wellbeing of our students, staff and community remain our highest priority. UTS Security always liaises with NSW Police, especially during periods of heightened uncertainty, to ensure our campus is safe including a greater security presence.  If you have any concerns about safety on campus at any time, please contact UTS Security on 1800 249 559.

Let us continue to look out for one another and uphold the values of respect, inclusion and care that define our community.

Thank you for supporting each other during this difficult time.

Support available

If you feel your studies may be impacted, please contact your subject coordinator who will be able to provide special accommodations and support according to your circumstances.

Students

The UTS Counselling Service has counsellors available. Please phone 02 9514 1177 to make an appointment or email Student.Services@uts.edu.au. Please let receptionists know if you are requesting an urgent appointment. UTS also encourages other members of our community who have been affected to contact the UTS Counselling Service for a free and confidential discussion. 

The UTS Counselling Service can also make referrals to STARTTS, who provide culturally relevant psychological treatment and support to help people and communities who have been affected by trauma.  

Staff

Staff seeking support or who need to adjust their work arrangements should speak to their supervisor, or their People Unit contact.

Staff can also connect with our confidential employee assistance program, TELUS Health (1300 361 008) and Yamurrah for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander colleagues. The service can also be used by immediate family members and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Free, confidential support is available from Lifeline by calling 13 11 14, or from Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.

Staff can refer domestic and international students to the UTS Counselling Service.