Stay safe on campus (without losing your cool)
University is all about expanding your mind, meeting people who’ll either be lifelong friends or just someone you shared a regrettable karaoke night with, and most importantly staying safe. So, let’s get real about keeping things both exciting and secure, because nobody has time for nonsense.
1. Know Your Resources (AKA: Know who to contact when things get sketchy)
The University of Adelaide is serious about making sure students feel safe, respected, and supported. They’ve got an entire Safer Campus Community hub where you can find out what to do if you experience or witness something unacceptable. So don’t be that person who just shrugs it off—use the resources! They’re literally there for you.
2. Be an Active Bystander (Because “I had no idea” is not a good excuse)
Ever heard of the bystander intervention? It’s all about seeing a situation where someone could use some help and then you do something about it. And no, you don’t need to be a superhero — just take proactive steps to prevent inappropriate behaviour if it is safe to do so. This is a life skill that will show potential employers that your time at university wasn’t all about drinking coffee and handing in assignments, it was also about showing leadership, caring for others and growing as a person.
The best part! The University runs free training that literally only takes 3-hours. It's called Become a Confident Bystander — register today, because that’s confidence!
3. Use Campus Security Services (Because these guys aren’t just here for their good looks)
Many universities offer safety escort services at night because, let’s be honest, we all want to avoid bad vibes. Our university has a free after-hours shuttle bus that will take you around the city and as far as North Adelaide. If you’re having a past-midnight study session, there’s also a security escort service that does a similar run to the Shuttle Bus! It’s like Uber, you’ll still need to make a booking but — it’s free and secure! For more details visit the Security website.
"I bark when I need attention, but you should use campus security if you ever feel unsafe on campus. They're there to help!" - Lenny, toy poodle & Student Experience mascot, chilling in Barr Smith.
4. Save the Security number (Your future self will thank you)
Listen up! You have to save the University security number in your phone. It unlikely you’ll remember it when something goes down, so don’t stand there panicking — save the number and be prepared!
On campus security:
North Terrace campus
Phone: 8313 5990
Location: Level 4, Kenneth Wills building
Roseworthy campus
Phone: 8313 7999
Location: Security and Campus Services building
Waite campus
Phone: 8313 7200
Location: Security Cottage
More security contacts:
Adelaide Health & Medical Sciences Building, North Terrace Campus
Phone: 0477 889 192
Final Thoughts: Stay safe, stay smart and look after each other
At the end of the day, staying safe on campus isn’t about being paranoid—it’s about being smart. Pay attention, look out for each other, and don’t be afraid to step up when it matters. We’re all here to have a good time, get a degree, and not end up in a cautionary tale.
Also, there's a whole day on 26 March when our university community raises awareness and commits to a safe and inclusive environment — it's called Safer Campus Community Day.
Now go out there, have fun, and stay safe!