Personal health and safety
Help to adjust and progress
Our Student Services team are here to help you with any questions or concerns. If you feel too homesick or stressed to study, or have a question about anything, come and see us.
Your teacher will build your confidence in class and can meet you outside of class to talk about your progress and what to do next with your studies.
If you are sick or injured
In an emergency
If you have a life-threatening health problem, dial 000 to call an ambulance. If you are on a Student Visa, the cost of an ambulance is covered by your OSHC.
Personal Support
If you need to speak with someone about a personal issue then in the first instance go to UQ College Reception on level 4 of Sir Llew Edwards Building (Building 14). You may also arrange an appointment with the UQC Student Adviser.
Student counselling and crisis support is available 24 hours a day by calling 1300 851 998 (UQ Counselling and Crisis Line).
This service is for students but staff who have concerns about students can use it 24/7 for guidance/assistance.
For further help, one-on-one crisis appointments can be arranged by calling the UQ Counselling and Crisis Line during the business hours of 8:30am – 4:30pm (AEST) or by visiting Student Central (Building 42) in person.
Injured or very sick
If you are very sick or injured, take a taxi or Uber to 'Emergency' at the nearest hospital.
Do not go to the hospital for normal things like coughs, flu or stomach aches as it is much more expensive than seeing a doctor outside of the hospital.
Sick at home
To see a doctor near you, phone your local medical centre to make an appointment. If you need a doctor overnight, call the Home Doctor service.
UQ Health Care
The UQ St Lucia Medical Centre offers quality care for the University's international students. Bring your student ID card and OSHC information with you to every appointment.
To make an appointment to see a doctor at the UQ Health Care, book an appointment online, or go to UQ College Reception on Level 4 for help.
UQ Health Care is free for students who have Allianz Health Insurance cover (OSHC). You must take your card or have the OSHC App to show you have cover or you will be charged a fee. UQ Health Care is located on the first floor of the Gordon Greenwood Building (Google Map).
Campus pharmacy
The Campus Pharmacy is located in Union Arcade (next to the food court) and sells prescription and non-prescription medication as well as general medical supplies.
Safety on campus and in Brisbane
Be connected and safe with UQ's SafeZone free app. It connects you directly to UQ Security, immediate on-campus emergency, or first-aid support 24/7. Find out more and download the app.
If you are walking in quiet areas on campus at night you can call 'Unisafe' on 1800 800 123 to escort you. You can also use the Unisafe bus to travel around campus late at night. Find out more about Unisafe services.
Look after your valuable items
Thieves target the university campus.
- Keep your wallet, phone, passport, iPod, and other valuable items with you at all times
- Do not leave valuable items in UQ College classrooms during break times
- Be careful when using the UQ College Learning Centre and UQ Library
- Report any suspicious people you see in the UQ College buildings to your teacher or Reception.
Safety in Brisbane
Brisbane is a safe and welcoming city. However, when you are visiting any new city, it is important to follow a few simple tips to stay safe.
- Never accept a car ride from a stranger
- Try not to travel on your own at night
- Before you leave home, make sure you know how you are going to get home and what time the last bus or train leaves at night.
More safety tips
Safety tips from the Brisbane City Council (YouTube, 2m:5s)
Allianz health cover and advice
If you have a student visa, we have probably organised Allianz health insurance cover for you. We recommend that you use the Allianz mobile app or website to get help if you are sick. Use the website or app to:
- Locate your nearest direct-billing doctor
- Submit a claim
- Contact the 24-hour helpline
- Find translations of medical terms
- Update your personal details.
An Allianz Care representative is located at Student Central (Building 42). Please contact the UQ Saint Lucia Student Central for current visiting hours. You can also contact Overseas Student Health Cover by Allianz Care directly.
- Member Services and General Enquiries: 13 67 42
- Claims: 1800 651 349
- 24 Hour Emergency Helpline: 1800 814 781.
UQ College emergency procedures
If you discover an emergency, such as a fire or someone who is hurt:
- Immediately tell your teacher or a staff member
- If there is a fire, press the alarm button (break the glass). Alarms are located near the exit on each floor level.
If the emergency hooter/siren sounds during class:
- Follow the instructions of your teacher or staff member
- You will be sent to the grassed area opposite the Sir Llew Edwards Building. Find your teacher and stay with your class.
If the emergency hooter/siren sounds during break or lunchtime or outside of regular class times - leave the building immediately.
Remember: never use the elevators during an evacuation.