The Charles Sturt University has extended some leeway to students affected by the "epic" flooding, particularly in Australia's eastern states. In a statement, CSU said the school is extending sympathy and support to affected students and their families.

Ms Miriam Dayhew, the University Ombudsman and Acting Executive Director of the Division of Student Services at CSU, said, "It is likely that some students and staff will be affected by the floods in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, and are experiencing stress and possible trauma, so Charles Sturt University will do whatever it can to reduce this.

"University staff who deal with these students or their families will take a sympathetic and flexible approach. We need to remove any administrative blockages that will add to the difficulties that they are currently experiencing."

Ms Mayhew noted that, at a time when prospective students are accepting offers of places at universities and current students are preparing to return to study, the floods have caused extensive property damage, evacuations, reduced capacity to travel, and loss of services such as power supplies.

"If students are required to submit paperwork for any reason, we accept that they may not be in a position to do so, whether due to the destruction of their documents or the stress on their families and friends," she said.

"We will endeavour to find whatever alternatives are possible. For example, if documents are required, they may be waived for a number of days or weeks until the situation improves. Equally, any closing dates that may impact on a student may be able to be delayed.

"When we have contact with students experiencing flood-related problems, we are referring them to Student Central or to Student Services to connect with the appropriate person to assist."

Ms Mayhew also reminded students about the Student Emergency Equity Grants (SEEG) available to students in financial hardship who have suffered a recent emergency or adverse event. SEEG's can be used to replace goods, property, or assist with travel expenses. The application form and guidelines are available here, or phone Mrs Carissa Perkins, CSU Student Equity Officer, on (02) 6338 4256 for more details.