Student Safety

Public transport can be an affordable and convenient way to travel. A little planning and awareness can help you stay safe and travel with confidence. Before you travel: 

• Let someone know your travel plans and expected arrival time
• Stay aware of your surroundings and keep headphone volume low
• Plan ahead and check timetables, especially for evening travel
• Wait in well-lit, populated areas
• Be mindful of who can see your phone screen
• Use reputable taxi or rideshare services and check vehicle and driver details before travelling
• Trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, choose a safer option. 

While travelling: 

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts
• Move to a safer location if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe
• Seek help from transport staff, drivers or authorised officers if needed
• Know where emergency help points, intercoms or alarms are located
• Travel near other passengers where possible
• Be aware of exits and safe spaces
• Stay alert when leaving public transport and let someone know you've arrived safely. 

Visit our Getting to and Around Campus page for information on travel options, parking, public transport, and the dedicated shuttle bus service to the Gold Coast campus, which will commence soon.

SCU promotes safe student living by providing: 

• Safe and secure accommodation environments
• 24/7 security initiatives, including CCTV premises monitoring
• Residential support and wellbeing services
• Clear and accessible pathways for reporting concerns
• Programs that foster respect, inclusion and positive community living
• Support services that help students access assistance when they need it.
• Always inspect a property in person before you sign a  

On-campus living (UniLodge Coffs Harbour and Lismore)

UniLodge at SCU offers a comprehensive Residential Life Program, designed to support students' safety, wellbeing, academic success and sense of belonging throughout their university experience. The Resident Handbook provides detailed information about the safety measures, support services and wellbeing resources available

Off-campus living support (UniStays) 

UniStays  is SCU's free accommodation platform, helping students find off-campus housing near SCU campuses. Properties listed on UniStays are not verified by SCU. Students should assess listings carefully before entering into any rental agreement. 

• Always inspect a property in person before you sign a lease or send any money
• Meet the landlord or agent face-to-face Do not pay a deposit before you see the space 

Self-Reporting System: If a property does not match its listing description or photos, immediately report it to the SCU Accommodation Officer.

Scam Education: The platform enforces strict pre-tenancy guidelines, warning students never to pay money or sign contracts before physically inspecting a property or meeting the landlord. 

Secure Registration: Only verified community providers can list rooms, and students must register to access landlord contact details.

At SCU, student safety is a priority during Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and professional placements. We are committed to providing placement experiences that are safe, supportive, and aligned with legal and professional standards. 

How SCU supports student safety on placement: 

• Placement site assessments to ensure host organisations meet relevant safety, insurance, and compliance requirements. 
• Workplace inductions provided by host organisations, including site-specific safety and emergency procedures. 
• Pre-placement requirements to ensure students complete necessary checks, training, and compliance obligations before commencing placement. 
• Dedicated support through University Placement Advisers (UPAs), who can assist with placement-related concerns. 
• Safe and respectful workplaces, with host organisations expected to uphold standards that prevent harassment, bullying, discrimination, and inappropriate behaviour. 
• Incident reporting pathways, allowing students to report safety concerns, hazards, injuries, or near misses through Riskware

If you feel unsafe or your wellbeing has been impacted while on placement, prioritise your safety and remove yourself from the situation where appropriate. Contact your University Placement Adviser (UPA) as soon as possible so SCU can assess the situation, provide support, and explore suitable options, including alternative placement arrangements where required. Your study progression will not be affected by raising a concern.