COVID-19 (coronavirus) advice for the UQ community - STAFF - Support
I have been impacted by COVID-19. What leave is available to me?
A specific leave entitlement is available to eligible staff to support them in dealing with the impacts of COVID-19.
Staff can obtain support and any clarification required from AskHR on askhr@uq.edu.au or 07 3365 2623.
Please note COVID-19 Special Leave is a discretionary entitlement and is subject to change at any time, without notice.
Who can I contact at UQ if I have questions?
Our teams are well-placed to provide support and advice, and put in place all necessary arrangements.
You should try to have regular conversations with your supervisor about any COVID-19 related questions you may have.
For general COVID-19 staff related questions, you can call HR on +61 (07) 3365 2623 or email askhr@uq.edu.au.
If a member of staff has been diagnosed, or contacted by Queensland Health and asked to self-isolate, email askhr@uq.edu.au or call HR on +61 (07) 3365 2623.
For students, please contact Student Services +61 (07) 3365 1704 or toll free within Australia: 1800 512 391.
What if a student or colleague presents in my class or at work and has cold or flu symptoms?
Be mindful that various conditions can produce cold or flu-like symptoms. People can have normal cold and flu viruses at any time.
It is reasonable to check on the welfare of that person and ensure that they are aware of the latest health advice.
Students: If a student presents as unwell and has cold and flu-like symptoms, their supervisor should ask them to contact UQ Health Care or their preferred medical practitioner, making sure to call ahead to explain their symptoms prior to attending in person.
Staff/Colleague: It is reasonable to check on the welfare of a colleague and ensure that they are aware of the latest health advice. If a colleague presents as unwell at work and has cold and flu-like symptoms, their supervisor should ask them to contact their medical practitioner (or UQ Health Care) for advice on an appropriate course of action, prior to physically attending.
Importantly, if anyone feels unwell and has the onset of any cold or flu-like symptoms, they should stay at home and not attend campus. This is important to facilitate a quick recovery for them, and it is also important for their colleagues and friends whose health should be protected.
What are my responsibilities as a supervisor for managing COVID-19?
A Manager’s Toolkit has been developed to provide UQ Managers with a range of information, support and resources for them and the teams they manage. Access it here.
What additional resources can I access?
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to many challenges for families. These Parenting in a Pandemic resources are designed to help families deal with the unique challenges and emotional consequences of parenting in stressful times. There are downloadable guides and tips for parents of pre-teens, teenagers, and children with developmental disabilities, and links to a podcast series and TV series. These resources are designed to help parents to support their children through the changes to daily life that they are facing, and also to help parents to look after themselves and manage stress, anxiety and relationship tensions during this difficult time. Find more info here.
I am feeling generally anxious about the COVID-19 issue – what should I do? What support is available?
It is normal to experience some worry or concern, but if those feelings start to affect your mental or physical wellbeing we recommend you seek support from a health professional. We’ve prepared a resource (PDF, 70.4 KB) to help you identify if you need help; find support, and get tips for managing stress and anxiety. Find more on our COVID-19 mental health resources page.
For UQ staff and their immediate families, free, confidential counseling and support are available through Benestar, UQ’s Employee Assistance Program. You may also wish to discuss your concerns with your immediate supervisor or local Human Resources contact.
UQ students, feel free to contact Student Services: student.services@uq.edu.au | +61 (07) 3365 1704 | Australia toll free: 1800 512 391.
Other helpful strategies may include:
- Access accurate information from reliable sources such as the UQ COVID-19 web page, Queensland Health or Commonwealth Department of Health.
- Avoid relying on unofficial social media posts! Remember to take a break from the news or social media if you are starting to feel overwhelmed.
- Maintain your usual routine and activities, where possible and appropriate.
- Stay connected with others.
- Reach out for support if you need it.