Situation in Iran

You will be aware of the ongoing unrest in Iran, where widespread protests and the government’s response have raised serious human rights concerns. The situation remains unstable, with restricted communications causing uncertainty both within Iran and internationally.

I want to acknowledge that this situation is deeply distressing, particularly for staff and students who have personal or professional connections to Iran. The images and reports emerging from the protests are deeply confronting, and I know I speak for the entire UTS community when I say that our thoughts are with those affected. 

The safety and wellbeing of our staff, students and partners is our primary concern.

I encourage you to look out for your colleagues and students during this difficult period, recognising that events in Iran, alongside unrest in Australia and other conflicts around the world, may be contributing to distress or uncertainty for members of our community.

Support available

Students

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.

The UTS Counselling Service has counsellors available for domestic and international students. 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.