|
People and Culture |
 |
People and CultureLa Trobe University Bushfire ResponseUpdatesBackground Over the weekend there was significant loss of life and property due to bushfires throughout the State. As a result of these bushfires a significant number of La Trobe staff have been affected by this tragedy, either directly through loss of life or loved ones, and / or the loss of homes and possessions. Accordingly the University is committed to assist staff who have been affected, by providing care and support. The University is also eager to support the emergency services in assisting all people affected by this tragedy. La Trobe University Staff Bushfire Appeal The University has established the La Trobe University Staff Bushfire Appeal that allows staff to make a financial contribution to assist La Trobe University colleagues who have been severely affected by the bushfires. The appeal will be open for the next three payrolls commencing on the 15 February, 1 March & 15 March 2009. Contributions to this appeal cannot be tax deductible - should you wish to make a tax deductible donation, please donate to one of the general appeals being organised by Red Cross and other organisations A form is available on this page that, once completed and signed, will allow People and Culture to deduct an amount nominated by you from your pay. The form also has provision for staff to provide credit card details if that is preferred and of course cash donations will be accepted at the cashier's office. Counselling and Support Counselling for staff has been organised through the University's Employee Assistance Program. The EAP provider, ResolutionsRTK has mobilised a specialist team to assist people regarding the bushfire. All employees and members of their immediate families wishing to seek counselling and support through the University's Employee Assistance Program can contact Resolutions on 1800 350 359 or (03) 9529 6600. Counselling for students will be provided by the University Counselling Service, which can be contacted on 9479 2956. Accommodation The University is providing emergency residential accommodation for staff at the Bendigo and Bundoora campuses. Accommodation matters are being coordinated through
The University is also making short term accommodation available to members of the public who have been affected by the bushfires and who need short term accommodation. This is being coordinated with the Red Cross. La Trobe University Fire Relief Log Book If staff are aware of students needing assistance, a La Trobe University Fire Relief Log Book has been set where staff can enter details of students affected by the bush fires. The link is available above. Donation and Support Arrangements Money Donations The Red Cross State Government Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund has been launched by the Premier to assist individuals and communities affected by the bushfires. Donations to the Fund can be made directly to the Fund on 1800 811 700 or by donating at any NAB, ANZ, Westpac or Commonwealth Bank branch, Post Office or Bunnings store. Another appeal set up is the Myer Bushfire Appeal, in which all proceeds will go to the Salvation Army. Donations can be made at any Victorian Myer store. Clothing and Items Donations Donation of articles and clothing can be made to the Salvation Army. New Toys and Books La Trobe University Community Children's Centre (Bundoora campus) is focussing on the immediate needs of the children who have lost their most treasured possessions (toys and books). We appeal to the University community to assist us in gaining some normality for these children during this fearful and stressful time. Donations of new toys and books will be accepted at the Children's Centre during the hours of 8.15am to 4pm until 13 Friday. Contact 9479 2122 Donating Blood Blood donations are organised through the Red Cross (phone 13 14 95). The Red Cross will take details and make arrangements for persons to make a blood donation at a local collection point. Leave Arrangements A document summarising leave arrangements to assist managers and supervisors in managing staff leave during this period is attached below. Forms
Content Approved by: Executive Director, People and Culture
Page maintained by: IT Systems Officer Last Updated: 21 November, 2008 |