The University has investigated the recent ransomware threat incident, working very closely with the Australian Cyber Security Centre. There is currently no active ransomware threat against the University and this investigation is now closed.

New Skaidrite Darius building name. Photo: Jamie Kidston/ANU

Last week, the 91ÊÓƵComputer Science and Information Technology building was officially renamed to honour Skaidrite Darius, a pioneer who carved out a place for women in the male-dominated field of IT. Darius was the first woman employed to develop and manage the electronic processing systems at ANU. 

We've been actively recruiting doctors and nurse practitioners and are excited to welcome new team members. Dr Chris Helms, Nurse Practitioner has joined us from the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) and will work two days a week. This week, Ebony Anderson, Nurse Practitioner will also start two days per week, bringing extensive mental health experience. Additionally, Dr Michelle Yin (91ÊÓƵalumna) and Dr Tang Sheng Zeng, who are both GPs will begin on Thursday, initially working one day per week with a view to increase gradually.

We also farewell Dr Bill Anell and Kathi Kuntz this month and thank them for their dedication. We are continuing to focus on attracting additional practitioners.

We acknowledge that access to appointments is challenging with so few practitioners available. International students with Allianz, BUPA, or NIB insurance can access online doctors:

Allianz: (bulk-billed for Allianz holders, $20 gap for others)

BUPA: (bulk-billed for BUPA holders, $20 gap for others)

NIB: (bulk-billed for NIB holders)

For trusted health advice, visit or call 1800 022 222.

Children enjoying the new changes. Photo: Jamie Kidston/ANU

Last week 91ÊÓƵjoined an official launch event to celebrate the successful transition of (UPCCC) and into new and larger purpose-built facilities. The event was attended by the Vice-Chancellor, staff, families and community members, marking a fresh start for early learning at ANU. 

UPCCC has expanded to 103 places and Heritage to 88. Staff, parents and children have embraced the changes and are enjoying the enhanced environments. Both centres currently have vacancies. Families seeking childcare services should contact the centres directly.

Tracy Beattie. Credit: Provided. 

What do online hashtags, inflatable ducks, grassroots protests, and milk tea have in common? For Tracy, they’re all threads in the tapestry of her remarkable academic journey. This 91ÊÓƵgraduate has turned a life shaped by the Asia-Pacific region into groundbreaking research on social movements, gender equity, and regional dynamics and now, a University Medal. 

AuSI prestigious Stephen FitzGerald Scholars. Credit: Provided. 

The 91ÊÓƵAustralian Studies Institute (AuSI) has been awarded four-year grant funding of $1 million from the National Foundation for Australia China Relations (NFACR) to continue the prestigious Stephen FitzGerald Scholars Program (SFSP).  

Named in honour of Australia's first ambassador to Beijing (then Peking), the SFSP provides high-performing students from Greater China who are studying at Australian universities, with insights to Australian history, culture and our diverse society. This initiative has been funded through NFACR in its 2024-25 grants round.  

Calling the SFSP a "visionary idea and a delight to be involved with", Academic Convenor, Mark Kenny said “this four-year funding represented a most welcome vote of confidence in the Institute and 91ÊÓƵat a time of considerable funding uncertainty”. 

 

Five sessions across Friday 28 February – Saturday 8 March, 8-10pm 

Mount Stromlo Observatory in conjunction with the invite the Canberra community to Enlighten at Mount Stromlo. More than a night under the stars, come along to Mt Stromlo Observatory and discover stories of Australian science, people and our shared connection to the skies through projections and installations created by students from the 91ÊÓƵSchool of Art and Design. Talks exploring the Universe as well as stargazing with Mt Stromlo Observatory and the Canberra Astronomical Society will occur (weather permitting). 

Thursday 6 March, 6-7pm 

Stan Grant will be in conversation with Mark Kenny on his book . In his most poetic and inspiring work yet, Stan Grant offers a means of moving beyond the binaries and embracing a path to peace and forgiveness, rooted in the Wiradjuri spiritual practice of Yindyamarra – deep silence and respect. 

Register now: MTA Stan Grant 

Friday 7 March, 7-8pm 

Best-selling author and TV historian Bettany Hughes will be in conversation with Caillan Davenport on her book , a revelatory new history of the ancient world told through its seven greatest monuments. 

Register now: MTA Bettany Hughes 

New to 91ÊÓƵthis semester? All students commencing coursework programs for the first time in Semester 1 are invited to respond to the 91ÊÓƵWelcome Survey. Check your 91ÊÓƵemail for your invitation and claim a free 91ÊÓƵbranded crossbody bag if you participate! Survey closes on Wednesday 5 March. 

 

School of Art & Design Glass Furnace Ceremony. Photo: David Fanner/ANU

Last year, the University's gas-fired furnace, Roxanne, officially . Now, as part of our commitment to renewable energy, we have fired up a new electric glass furnace at the 91ÊÓƵSchool of Art and Design. 

Vice-Chancellor Genevieve Bell had the honour of flipping the switch. “I think about the journey we are on as a country in terms of how we think about our energy footprint and how we can be more sustainable,” she said, acknowledging the efforts of everyone who has worked to make 91ÊÓƵ"a little bit more 21st century".   

91ÊÓƵHead of Glass, Dr Jeffrey Sarmiento said that the new furnace was a team effort – much like glassmaking. "It takes many hands to make glass," Dr Sarmiento said. “We are witnessing significant efforts across the University, from academic to technical, administrative, executive and finance. All the people in this room have contributed to the realisation of this project." 

Though this furnace is still unnamed, we can't wait to witness what lies ahead for the shiny future of glassmaking. 

Want to make a real impact on campus? From joining a sustainability club to cutting food waste in your hall or scoring eco-friendly prizes in our giveaways, there are plenty of ways to get involved.

91ÊÓƵGreen has pulled together the best options – so whether you're up for a small change or a big challenge, there’s something for you. Check out the 91ÊÓƵGreen page to get started.

The 91ÊÓƵInformation Security Office has launched the new Cyber Sense training on Wattle. Learn how to stay safe from the latest phishing techniques and how to protect your privacy and devices. 

Complete the new Cyber Sense training by Friday 28 February to go into the draw for your chance to win prizes including an 91ÊÓƵhoodie, Sony headphones and food and drink vouchers.  This competition is organised by the 91ÊÓƵInformation Security Office and prizes can be collected from their office on campus. 

 

Coercive control is a pattern of abusive or controlling behaviour that limits a person’s freedom. It can be physical or non-physical, happen in-person or online, and occur in relationships, families, or groups like religious organisations and cults.

Early signs:

How it feels:

If you or someone you know is experiencing unease, support services are available at ANU Student Safety and Wellbeing.

ANUOK is the official safety and wellbeing app for our 91ÊÓƵcommunity.

The app features include quick access to 91ÊÓƵSecurity, emergency information and current alerts, safety tools, a campus map and other personal support resources.

All students should download the ANUOK App.

Make sure you turn on push notifications to stay informed about news that affects our community.

Help is available if you need it. If you are dealing with a personal or University-related issue, 91ÊÓƵencourages you to seek support through the 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.