Monash student residents feel let down after lockdown

“Management has a duty of care that’s holistic care as well, that extends to how comfortable a resident is in their own home, and their mental health.”

A Monash University spokesperson said a small number of students had raised concerns but that support had been provided.

“Throughout this difficult year, Monash has provided extensive support for all our residents. This has included access to university health services and increased mental and physical health services, the ability to cancel rental agreement without encumbrance, free meals, meal support, prepaid gift cards for use on campus and one-on-one assistance,” they said.

The spokesperson said the university had been working with the Health Department throughout the year and that a small number of students had been counselled over following guidelines.

“The DHHS has directed that halls of residences are considered communal living environments, rather than households. This is the same for all universities.”

“At all times, Monash has highlighted the circumstances in our residences and worked with the DHHS to try and find the best way possible to implement the numerous health requirements.”

The spokesperson said there were 1500 students still living in residences at Monash, with almost 1000 of them planning to spend the summer break on campus.

“This would seem to highlight the majority of our residents understand our response to the pandemic.”

One current resident, who spoke anonymously, said students were over-policed.

“Security guards have also had a power trip. Some will use their power to be rude and question students on what they have been doing and where they have been, an overstep of their duties.”

“Empathy is a clear quality lacking at Monash Residential Services.”

Mr Trebilcock has founded the group Students of MRS, a platform for residents to share concerns and try to improve the residential experience. Almost 500 people follow the group’s Facebook page.

“A lot of people think this is a problem,” he said. “We should be heard.”

A separate student-run organisation, Student Voice for Monash, is also campaigning for change across the university as a whole, saying students were not adequately supported during the pandemic and deserve better.

Deakin University education academic Dr Rosalyn Black said research showed the student’s voice was still a complex issue throughout higher education.

“There are still questions: if students are given a voice but that isn’t listened to, then what is the value of that voice?” she said.

“Are students only encouraged to speak for certain purposes and in certain circumstances?

“Voice is not voice if it’s constrained like that.”