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The escalating conflict in the Middle East is distressing on many fronts, and we acknowledge the impact on students, staff and our wider community who have connections in the region. Your safety and wellbeing are paramount, and we’d like to remind you that support is available to you, including 24/7 and after-hours mental wellbeing support.  

Following government advice and direction last week, including the adoption of a National Fuel Security Plan on Monday 30 March and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s national address on Wednesday 1 April, there are no changes to teaching and research at the moment. This means that all classes will be delivered as scheduled at present. 

Options for travelling to and from campus, including sustainable options, are available on our getting to campus page. We’ve also extended the schedule of our campus bus between Fisher Library, Susan Wakil Health Building and Redfern Station to provide better access to campus. 

The University is proactively planning for a range of potential scenarios and will continue to provide information and advice as the situation evolves.

Take it easy! 😌

If your mid‑sem break plans include sleeping in, doing less and catching your breath, you’re not alone. This week is all about resting, recharging and easing into the second half of semester.

Brush up on your study techniques ✏️

Whether you’re catching up or getting ahead, now’s a great time to sharpen your study game. Check out our top study tips, techniques and support services to help you stay on track.

Bonus tip: The Student Centre, Library and study spaces are open as normal during the mid-semester break – except for Friday, which is a public holiday. So you’ve got plenty of quiet places to knuckle down.

Procrastinate productively by completing our digital experience survey 💻

Need a study break? Take 6 minutes to complete our Digital Experience Insights Survey – your procrastination could be rewarded with an iPad mini, $250 voucher or $150 voucher! 

Join our Instagram broadcast channel 📲

Want campus updates without digging through your feed? Join our broadcast channel on Instagram – a direct line for the stuff you actually care about. Join for free food and coffee alerts, merch discounts and giveaways, plus events you won't want to miss. Join via the @sydney_uni Instagram account.

Make the most of your time away from class without breaking the bank – from scenic walks to free galleries and hidden beaches, there’s plenty to do around Sydney on a budget. Check out our budget friendly ways to spend this mid-semester break.

University of Sydney USLS delegates at the 2025 symposium in Bangkok, Thailand.

The University Scholars Leadership Symposium (USLS) is an opportunity to build your leadership skills, connect with like‑minded peers, and take part in a global program focused on social change. Hear from students who attended USLS in 2025 and find out how to apply for this year’s symposium in Bangkok. Have questions about USLS? Register to attend an information session on Zoom, taking place Wednesday 15 April, 12 pm–2 pm.

Something else? Let us know in the comments! 💬

Camperdown/Darlington Student Centre is now closed for refurbishment

The Student Centre on Level 3 of the Jane Foss Russell (JFR) Building is now closed while refurbishment works take place to improve accessibility and student spaces. The centre is expected to reopen later in June. You can get in touch with the Student Centre online, via phone or at other nearby locations:

The key matters discussed at the latest Senate meeting

The University Senate oversees all major decisions concerning the conduct of the University. They most recently met on Monday 20 March and discussed a range of matters, from student views on the student experience to harnessing artificial intelligence and enhancing our digital capability. Read an overview of key matters discussed at the 20 March meeting.

NSW expands eligibility criteria for free Japanese Encephalitis virus vaccine
Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is transmitted by infected mosquitoes. In NSW, a free vaccine is available for people who are at greater risk of infection.

Vaccines are available from GPs, pharmacists and Aboriginal Medical Services. Learn more about JE virus and JEV vaccination in NSW via the NSW Health website.

Once fully vaccinated, it can take between two to four weeks for your body to develop a protective immune response to the disease, so if you’re eligible, you should get vaccinated as soon as possible.

PhD candidate Linda Losurdo (left) and her supervisor Professor David McKenzie. Photo credit: Fiona Wolf/The University of Sydney

Did you know one of our PhD students created cosmic dust in a lab – research that could help scientists better understand how life began on Earth? The discovery attracted global media attention including CNN, The Smithsonian, Space Daily and The Guardian.

The University’s media team is always keen to hear about standout student stories – especially things like:

If that’s you (or someone you know), let us know at media.office@sydney.edu.au.

Looking for paid, flexible work that fits around your studies? The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is recruiting for a range of roles for the 2026 Census, with opportunities available across Sydney, regional NSW and beyond.

Census roles are temporary and include flexible hours, with positions supporting data collection and community engagement. New roles will continue to open throughout the year.

👉 Find current roles and register your interest at census.abs.gov.au/jobs

Keep in touch

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