Personal Safety

The University of South Australia is a relatively safe place, but violent acts have occurred on campus. You need to be alert to your safety and the safety of your property.

To increase your safety the University has security personnel on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week. These officers patrol the campus, can answer your enquiries and offer you assistance if needed. They can be identified by their blue security uniforms.

The University is focused on making your time with us an enjoyable and smooth experience, so we have invested in the SafeZone App to protect your safety.  SafeZone is a smart phone based safety initiative brought to you by FM Assist for use on all UniSA Campuses. The free App will connect you immediately to Security should you need our assistance or emergency support while you are on campus.

You can also help make the campus safer for everyone by following these safety tips and reporting any suspicious behaviour to Campus Security.

Security phones

• If threatened, dial 000 (a free call to the Police Department) or 112 in case of an emergency.
• For any on campus assistance please call Campus Security or utilise the SafeZone App.
• You can also contact Campus Security directly by utilising a Security Phone which have been placed at prominent locations across the campuses. Exact locations of Security Phones can be accessed below:    
  • City East
  • City West
  • Magill
  • Mawson Lakes
  • Whyalla
  • Mt Gambier

Think ahead and be aware

• If you are on campus at night use the UniSafe escort service.
• Have SafeZone active on your phone and be ready to contact Security in need.
• Recognise potentially dangerous situations before they develop.
• Assess risks ahead of time and devise contingency plans.
• You may choose to carry a personal alarm, or else be prepared to scream if attacked.
• Avoid lonely or gloomy places, especially at night. Walk with a friend or stay with a crowd.
• Be wary of strangers, on foot or in cars, asking directions – it's better to be rude than to be in trouble.
• If someone follows you, change direction and go to a place where there are people.
• Respect your intuition. Don't allow rationality to override your 'sixth sense' – it could protect you from danger. 
• When you're socialising, don't drink too much. Keeping a clear head makes it easier to make wise decisions when it comes to personal safety.

Public transport

• Know your timetable to avoid long waits after dark, especially if you're alone.
• Avoid lonely, closed in shelters – keep to open, populated areas in full view of bus or train.
• Avoid empty train carriages, and where possible take an aisle seat.

Parking your car

• Park in well lit, busy areas.
• Hide any valuables from sight and lock the car before leaving.
• Walk confidently when returning to your car, with keys held ready to open the door.