Accessing and using the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (ATSIS) Unit

Student study area

The ATSIS Unit is committed to Indigenous education, and we welcome Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to our spaces. Our aim is to provide encouragement and support to students and to foster a safe and culturally embracing environment for all.

The student study area at each campus includes a communal kitchen and computers for student use in the lounge area. Students are encouraged to socialise, relax, and use the lounge as a casual study space.

St Lucia campus – after-hours access available

The St Lucia student study area also has two quiet study rooms adjacent to the main communal space for independent work.

As part of improving the student experience, the ATSIS Unit has made provision for enrolled Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students to have after-hours access to the St Lucia student study area and quiet study rooms. Other areas of the ATSIS Unit, such as meeting rooms and staff offices, are not available for after-hours access.

For students and tutors in the Indigenous Tutorial Assistance and Retention (ITAR) Program, tuition is not to be provided in the after-hours space without prior approval. We encourage ITAR tutors to use the UQ Library or other suitable campus spaces.

Benefits of the student study area, after-hours access:

  • secure and safe environment that supports and promotes quiet study
  • access to printing and electronic resources
  • access to computers
  • access to a communal kitchen.

Conditions of use – after-hours access

Access to and use of the St Lucia student study area between 5 pm and 8 am is a privilege extended to students who:

  • are actively enrolled in a UQ program
  • are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students who have registered their details (student ID) with the designated ATSIS Unit staff member
  • have been granted formal student ID swipe access for after-hours use
  • intend to use the space for the purpose of quiet independent study

The following principles guide access to the after-hours (5pm to 8am) student study area.

Students using the area will:

  • have registered their name and student ID for after-hours access
  • use their student ID for personal access only. Access is non-transferable, and approved students must refrain from allowing others access to the space with their student ID card
  • have their student ID on them at all times
  • treat each other with respect and consideration at all times
  • respect private property and ATSIS Unit property
  • ensure a safe environment for others
  • comply with the University of Queensland Student Code of Conduct
  • be aware of the Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy.

Important: Students who have not registered for after-house use of the student study area are required to vacate the building at 5pm weekdays. Failing to do so may result in an authorised staff member kindly requesting they exit from the building and register for after-house use.

Gatton campus – staffed hours only (Mon - Thu, 7 am–3 pm)

The ATSIS Unit’s student study area at Gatton is open Monday to Thursday, 7 am to 3 pm while staff are on site.

After-hours access is not currently available at Gatton but will be introduced soon. Updates will be provided once this service is in place. Until then, students are welcome to use the space during staffed hours.

Expected behaviour

Student users of the after-hours access to the student study area are expected to refrain from:

  • behaviours that threaten personal safety or the security of personal or ATSIS Unit property
  • behaviours that disrupt the study activities of fellow students, including but not limited to excessive noise, mobile phones, music, hostility, rudeness, discrimination or sexual harassment (Discrimination and Harassment).
  • inappropriate use of computer resources, including equipment tampering, extended recreational use, commercial use, and viewing websites or images that violate The University of Queensland guidelines (6.20.01 Acceptable Use of UQ ICT Resources)
  • commit to keeping the student study area clean and tidy and ensure any rubbish or food items are placed in the bins provided before leaving. Tea, coffee and milk are provided in the shared fridge, but please do not eat any of the food in the fridge if it is not yours. There are a range of food outlets at St Lucia campus for your convenience.

Security

There is a 24-hour security presence on St Lucia campus and UQ Security will patrol the space after hours.

In the case of an emergency please contact security on (07) 3365 3333. There is signage provided in the communal kitchen area, directing students towards appropriate contact details in the case of emergency.

We recommend that students also install the SafeZone app. SafeZone is an easy-to-use location-based application for mobile devices that connects students (and staff) directly with UQ security officers or emergency services.

The ATSIS Unit may limit or refuse access to individuals or groups who fail to comply with these guidelines and conditions.

Students with special requests outside of the above conditions can contact the ATSISU for consideration; however, approval must be sought in writing before using the space.

By registering to use the ATSIS Unit student study area after-hours space, you agree to the above guidelines and conditions.