RMIT Handbook 2015 - My Student Village from CLV · RMIT Village Residents’ Handbook 2014 2...
Transcript of RMIT Handbook 2015 - My Student Village from CLV · RMIT Village Residents’ Handbook 2014 2...
Contents
2 Welcome to RMIT Village 3 Introduction: Building a community
Background & history The Village staff
6 Facilities and services The gym The glass house The student lounge
The study The tutorial room Little Richard Pizza Bar
The deck Laundry The pool The activities room The bike shed Cultural activities
8 Your residences What is provided? What to bring What you can purchase from the village Internet
UCards
10 Fresh out of the nest? Cooking
Cleaning Garbage Reporting maintenance Car parking
12 Administratively speaking
Mail Checking in Logging on to your account Checking out
Your contract
Have you paid your bills Damages charges list
15 Your community: Village life
Live, Learn, Grow
17 Community living Sharing living: a beginner’s guide Resolving difficulties Noise Partying at the village Smoking
19 Your safety, security and wellbeing Personal wellbeing Drugs – legal & illegal
Personal issues Sexual decision making Harassment A little about you
22 Staying connected
Communication within the village 23 Where to go for help
The residents support team Locked out of your apartment?
24 In case of emergency
Fire Medical
Hospitals 26 Your community: Local and Melbourne city
Entertainment Eating local
Transport
Appendix a Village maps Appendix b Village rules Appendix c Noise policy Appendix d Party policy
Appendix e Privacy policy Appendix f 2014 Rent schedule Handy phone numbers
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Welcome to RMIT Village
Welcome to RMIT Village. Our team of personnel are all professionals who enjoy what they do and I
encourage you to make yourself known to them at the earliest opportunity.
As you settle into life at the Village you will also meet our willing, ready and able Resident Assistant (RA)
team members – these RA’s have been chosen to work with Village management to help make your stay
with us as comfortable, fun and safe as possible. If you have any ideas or suggestions about how we can
enhance the quality of your stay with us – please talk to an RA or come and see us at Reception.
I wish you every success with your studies this year and once again would like to welcome you to our
Village.
Best regards
Michael Lynch
General Manager
RMIT Village and Yarra House, NMIT
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Introduction:
Building a community
Welcome to your new crib, RMIT Village. Our aim in 2015 is
not just to give you somewhere to stay, but to make the Village your “home away from home”. With 456 neighbours by your side, a jam-packed Residential Life program and staff on hand for 24 hours a day - you will be an official
Villager in no time at all. Our Residential Life program is like a broth, created with
different ingredients to help you ’Live, Learn and grow’. We’ve added in everything from sporting, cultural, community based programs and more. The only ingredient
missing…is you!
In order to get the best out of your time at the Village you need to get involved in our community. It is our goal to
ensure that each member of the Village is included and secure but most importantly we want you to have fun and achieve the best results you can.
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The village staff
Noel McMahon General Manager
t. +61 3 8330 2002
As General Manager Noel’s main responsibility is to ensure that the
stay of every resident in the Village is safe, rewarding, enjoyable,
secure and comfortable.
Francois Soupe Facilities Manager
t. +61 3 8330 2009
If it’s broken, damaged or simply not working, contact Francois via
the Fix-it-Request and he will arrange for someone to attend and
fix. It is his job to maintain the property at RMIT Village and
ensure you are living in a clean comfortable environment.
Regan Shawcross Village Manager
t. +61 3 8330 2003
Regan is the Village Manager and can answer any general
questions about the Village you may have. She is responsible for
the day-to-day running of the Village, and available to meet with
residents regarding any concerns/issues they have through
Reception.
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Kate Miles
Residential Life Co-ordinator
t. +61 3 8330 2014
As the Residential Life Coordinator, Kate hosts events that
encourage residents to 'Live, Learn and Grow'. She is committed
to bringing life, fun and happiness into the Village.
Gary Guo Village Accountant
t. +61 3 8330 2004
Gary is the Village Accountant and is responsible for looking after
the money and finances of the Village. To discuss money matters
such as problems with your rent payments, please contact Gary
through Reception.
Helen Murphy Administrator
t. +61 3 8330 2000
Helen is the Village Administrator and is the friendly face that will
greet you when checking into the Village. If you have any
questions or enquiries please come to Reception and see Helen.
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Mahima Rana
Reception
t. +61 3 8330 2000
Gary is the Village Accountant and is responsible for looking after the
money and finances of the Village. To discuss money matters such as
problems with your rent payments, please contact Gary through
Reception.
Facilities and services
The gym
If you need a little exercise feel free to use the Village Fitness Centre free of charge located behind the Study
Area on Level 1 (above Reception). Put on a movie, connect your music to the speakers or simply meditate in
silence. The gym is open daily, from 6am to midnight.
Your room key will grant you access to the facility. We ask that you respect the equipment provided and
those who are in the Fitness centre at the same time. Please use a towel to wipe down equipment after use.
The glass house
Need a break from study? Our Games room is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Equipped with a pool
table that can be used any time free of charge, table tennis and a flat screen television with free Foxtel, it is a
great place for you to mingle and catch up with the Village gossip.
The student lounge
Another great place to relax with friends is our student lounge area located next to Reception. Furnished with
couches and a flat screen TV with Foxtel, it is the perfect place to catch up with friends (especially during
Melbourne’s colder months). And if you are into videogames, there is a PlayStation and Wii machine there for
you and your mates to play. Ask reception for a list of video and board games available for hire.
The study
Our study room is the largest communal area in the Village. Here, you can hit the books in silence – open 24
hours, it is located on Level One above Reception. Free printing facilities, just BYO paper. Four group study
monitor screens are available for you to connect your laptop into. There is also a drafting board too for all the
architects! We also have an onsite tutor every Wednesday to help you with your academic queries.
The tutorial room
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This room is ever changing and perfect for group study sessions, conferences, group fitness workouts, movie
marathons and more. The large projection screen is perfect for practising speeches, watching assignments,
and movies or even free to air TV channels. Just ask reception and we’ll let you in! We also use the tutorial
room during the exam periods as an over-flow space. During this time, this room is a silent zone.
The communal kitchen Located in the glass house, this is the perfect spot to get cooking and utilise the two cooking stations
provided. With state of the art ovens, two wash up areas and plenty of bench space- this kitchen is perfect
for group dinners, baking, cooking lessons and more. We also have many free food events in the kitchen
from pizza, taco’s, pancakes, pasta and a bunch of other delicious treats.
Little Richard Pizza Bar
Located in the RMIT Village building, you can easily enjoy a freshly made meal or hot coffee. Open from
Monday to Saturday for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Purchase a VIP pre-paid card and prove to your parents
that you are spending your money on healthy food! Also watch out for weekly student specials on their
boards outside. For more info visit www.littlerichard.com.au.
The deck
We have two decks at the Village which often transform into a stage during events. One is located on the
ground floor outside the Student Lounge –also the designated smoking area for the Village. The other, is next
to the pool and displays two electrical BBQ units which we encourage you to use.
Laundry
The two laundry rooms in the building are on level 1 and level 3 at the car park end of the building. The cost
for a load of washing is currently $4 and drying is $3. You need to bring your own detergent and fabric
softener.
The pool
The pool is heated all year round and is for the use and enjoyment of all residents of the Village. Non-
residents, if they are registered with Reception, are also allowed to use the pool if accompanied by a resident.
Pool rules
NO glassware whatsoever in the pool or on the pool deck
If pool is deemed unhygienic by the Village Facilities Manager the pool may be closed for an extended
period of time – so please help keep it clean
To use the BBQ, follow the signed instructions and push the silver button to activate
Please clean the BBQ after use
No diving
Please respect all pool users at all times – no unsafe or dangerous behaviour
Pool hours 9am to 10pm
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The activities room
We have an all-purpose, private room which you can utilise for interviews, set up your designs or just to have
a dedicated work space. You may use the room free of charge. Booking are necessary, so contact Reception
and collect the keys.
The bike shed
Located on the ground floor of the car park, you can store you secure your bicycle in the bike shed. Available
24/7, you will require your key card to access it.
Cultural activities
We celebrate diversity. We encourage multiculturalism and will be offering a number of fun cultural activities
throughout the year. See your Village Events calendar for upcoming events or if you have any ideas for
events, come and have a chat with us at Reception.
Your residences
What is provided?
All residences come furnished with a:
Desk
Desk chair
Wardrobe
Shelving
Data port
Flat screen television
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Bed & mattress
Mattress protector
Curtains
Full length mirror
Pin board
Storage cabinet, shower, toilet
Kitchen
The kitchens inside apartments are equipped with a microwave, refrigerator & freezer, electric cook top, exhaust fan and storage cupboards.
What do I need to bring/buy?
All residents need to supply their own*:
Crockery, cutlery and cooking
utensils
Bed linen and quilts
Towels and bathmats
Coat hangers
Cleaning supplies
Fans for summer
Regulation heaters for winter
(please ask us about what type of heaters are
permitted)
Rubbish bin
Iron and ironing board
*Not applicable for SAEX package customers. See below for details.
What you can buy from the Village….
The residential fee is for room only and does not include bedding and kitchen packs (with the exception of
International students who sign a SAEX contract).
For your convenience, the Village has sourced bedding packages that may be purchased from Reception upon
your arrival. Heaters and fans are also able to be purchased at Reception (until stocks last).
Single package - $400
(suitable for all rooms in two, three and five bedroom apartments)
Bathroom:
1 x bath mat
1 x bath towel
1 x hand towel
1 x laundry bag
Bedding:
2 x sheets
2 x pillow case
1 x pillow
1 x duvet cover
1 x doona
Kitchen: 1 x fork 1 x spoon 1 x teaspoon 1 x pack of 3 veg peeler
1 x potato masher 1 x spatula 1 x mug 1 x breakfast bowl 1 x side plate 1 x dinner plate
1 x glass cup 1 x large kitchen knife
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1 x small saucepan
1 x medium saucepan 1 x frying pan 1 x tongs
1 x chopping board 1 x colander 1 x set of 3 plastic containers 1 x set of 3 wooden cooking spoons 1 x can opener 1 x kettle 1 x toaster
1 x dust pan 1 x toilet brush 1 x bin
Internet
All transactions for internet use are made directly between the resident and the 3rd party supplier, BigAir, on
a user-pays system (See Appendix B). Please contact Reception for more details.
Lost Room Cards™
Report lost room keys to Reception immediately. The longer you leave it, the longer the security of your
apartment is in jeopardy. Replacement of broken or damaged room cards is complimentary. Replacement of
lost cards incurs a $10 fee.
Fresh out of the nest?
Here’s a little help
Cooking
Unlike most resident accommodations you have your very own kitchen! However with this luxury comes cost,
mess and health. Luckily, we are only a two block walk from the Victorian Markets on Victoria Street. At the
“Vic” Markets you can get fresh meat and veggies all for a great price. Budgeting is also a very important part
of student living, so make sure you look after yourself and prioritise food over partying. There are also
several supermarkets in the area including:
IGA on Errol St Nth Melbourne and Flemington Road
ALDI on Franklin St City
Coles in Melbourne Central
Woolworths on Lygon St
Cooking classes are available at the start of each Semester – come and see us at Reception for all the
details.
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Cleaning
It is very important to have a high level of personal hygiene. Make sure you do not leave dirty dishes to
fester in your sink. Please keep your room as tidy as possible. There will be random inspections throughout
the year to keep a check on the state of the rooms.
Cleaning services:
You are encouraged to keep your room as clean as possible and do all your own cleaning. We have vacuum
cleaners at Reception for you to use – please leave your student ID while you use it. This is returned to you
when you return the vacuum cleaner.
However, if you are struggling with keeping your room clean, we can organize a cleaner before your room
inspection. We call it the ‘Lazy Bones’ cleaning service; it costs $99 per person.
‘Lazy Bones’ cleaning includes:
Vacuuming
Cleaning of entire kitchen, including microwave
Cleaning of entire bathroom
Wiping down of desks and furniture
Dusting of balcony
Window cleaning (for rooms with balconies)
Cleaning of fridge
This service does not include:
Picking up of items left around the room
General tidying
Making of Beds
Washing of dishes
Your apartment will need to be relatively tidy before it can be cleaned. This is not a hotel type service but
simply a cleaning service to encourage personal hygiene.
To book the “Lazy Bones” service:
All residents of the apartment will have to agree on the cleaning and be prepared to pay their share in
advance.
You must book at Reception either in person or via email at [email protected].
Cleaning must be booked at least 3 working days in advance.
Garbage
Garbage can become a major problem if not taken out regularly. Garbage is not to be left in your room for an
extended period of time, as the smell can spread throughout the whole building. There are waste disposal
bins in the car park which you are able to use. Do NOT place any personal rubbish in the laundry room bins or
on balconies.
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Reporting maintenance
To report any maintenance problems in your room or around the property, please log on to the RMIT Village
website and lodge your Fix-it-Request. All repairs at the Village- including rooms- are performed by trade
qualified persons including changing of light globes. So please let us know if you have a blown globe. We
encourage you to report any hazards at the Village for your own safety and that of others.
Car parking
Please contact Reception if you require a parking spot. Payments for casual parking can be made at Reception
during our opening hours.
If you are not able to make it to the front desk during this period, we ask that you call or email us as all
monetary transactions are arranged and charged directly to your account.
Unauthorised vehicles will be wheel clamped or towed. All parking is subject to availability and at the owner’s
risk. Please ensure your parking sticker/ permit is on display at all times.
Administratively speaking
Mail Your postal address:
[Your Name], [Room number]
RMIT Village
5-17 Flemington Rd
North Melbourne VIC 3051
Australia
Receiving mail
All mail received via ordinary Australia Post is distributed by last name in pigeonholes near Reception, which
is accessible 24 hours a day. Should you receive a large parcel, it will be kept in Reception and a pink
notification slip will be placed in your mailbox. Parcels can be collected during office hours from Reception, and
up until 9pm via the RA on duty Monday-Friday. Any mail not collected after departure will be returned to
sender or disposed of. Private post office boxes are available at the nearest Post Office – for more info visit
www.auspost.com.au.
Couriers & other deliveries
The Village will sign for packages delivered by couriers to avoid frustration between residents and the courier
company, however, the Village does not accept any responsibility for misplaced or damaged goods.
Courier companies may charge you if items have to be redelivered. Some companies will return deliveries to
the sender if they cannot be delivered. Private post office boxes are available at the nearest Post Office – for
more info visit www.auspost.com.au.
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Sending mail
The nearest post box is located on Elizabeth Street. The nearest Post Office is located inside the Royal
Melbourne Hospital on Grattan St or within the University of Melbourne campus.
Checking in
Stairs will lead you to reception, located opposite Little Richards Café. Please pick up you O-Week ticket on
arrival and get ready to smile for your personalised room key card. Please pre-load a photo of yourselves on
our online portal before your arrival so that we may take you straight to your room. We know what it’s like
having to take a photo with baggage dangling around your neck and dad in the background- awkwardd.
In your welcome pack, please find two pink forms- you will need to return these within 48 hours after your
arrival. Your Room Condition form, is to let us know of the condition of your room upon arrival. And a fire
awareness form. It is imperative that these are completed in detail as they are a record of the condition of
the room when you arrived at the Village. You will also receive further information about living in the Village
and using the facilities.
Logging on to your account
You can logon to your account at RMIT Village available at our website at any time. You must enter your
logon details which were provided to you on your application. If you don’t have or forgot your log on details,
contact Reception and we will organize it for you.
On the website you can:
> View your account and make payments
> Lodge Fix-it-Requests
> Update your contact details
Checking out
1. Fix a date
Please advise Reception in advance of your check-out date and your check-out time. It is essential that we
know when you will be leaving.
2. Where to go
Checking out of the Village can only be done at Reception.
Allow ample time, as a number of people may also be checking out at the same time as you. On your day of
departure you must fully vacate your room and ensure no belongings are left behind. If your actual departure
time is before Reception opens in the morning, you must complete all departure formalities the day before.
3. Upon checking out
You will need to arrange for a post-departure inspection of your room by contacting Reception. Your room
must be cleaned to the same standard it was when you arrived, otherwise you may incur additional cleaning
charges. Your room/apartment must be left in such a state that a new resident could theoretically move in
the same day. Your room will be checked within 24 hours of your departure, and if it is not in a satisfactory
condition, as inspected by Village management, you will be charged for this cost.
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4. Furniture and fittings in place.
Make sure that all items that should be in your room are present. Anything that is missing will be replaced at
your cost. When you have checked and cleaned everything, close the bedroom door.
5. Pay up!
You will be required to settle all accounts, telephone, miscellaneous charges etc. prior to your check out.
Your contract
Contract period You are entitled to occupy your room in the Village from starting until the ending date of your contract. . Your
Residential Agreement requires you to pay the full amount of rent for the entire period of your agreement.
If a tenant wishes to end the tenancy agreement prior to the contract end date, the tenant must:
Resident must pay a contract break fee of $150.00, as per agreement
Residents must continue to pay the residential fee up to the contract commencement date of an approved
replacement tenant, as per contract. Existing tenants cannot be used as replacement tenants.
Have you paid your bills?
Payment of bills Payments must be made on time or in advance. If you find yourself in financial hardship, contact the Village
Financial Manager as soon as possible. We understand that it may be the first time that you have had to pay
rent and are more than happy to talk to you on the matter. Do not just let it go, as it will result in a build-up
of debt and leave you with a poor rent rating, coming for a chat can eradicate both of these problems.
To change any personal details, please log on to the RMIT Village website or come to Reception and leave
your new details with a Receptionist, who will change them in our system.
Damages charges list ITEM COST
Bedroom
Study desk $ 195.00
Book shelf $ 125.00
Pin board $ 70.00
Curtains $ 145.00 – 265.00
Double bed frame $ 270.00
King single bed frame $ 215.00
Flat screen television $ 800.00
Double bed mattress $ 290.00
King single mattress $ 275.00
Mattress protector $ 21.00
Mirror $ 55.00
Study chair $ 125.00
Wardrobe $ 725.00
TV antenna point $ 60.00
Data outlet $ 60.00
Data cable $ 3.00
Telephone handset $ 150.00
Lounge / Kitchen
ITEM COST
Lounge / Kitchen ‘cont’
Kitchen table $ 215.00
Kitchen chairs $ 75.00
2 Ring cook top $ 215.00
Apartment microwave $ 180.00
Refrigerator $ 270.00 – 1150.00
Tapware $ 250.00
Bathroom
Shower screen $ 280.00
Basin and Tapware $ 550.00 – 880.00
Shelf $ 70.00
Towel Rail $ 55.00
Toilet roll holder $ 45.00
Soap holder $ 12.00
Mirror $ 90.00
Other fittings
Smoke detector $ 240.00
Light fittings $ 35.00 – 95.00
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2 seater lounge $ 550.00
3 seater lounge $ 600.00
Tub chair $ 375.00
Artwork $ 125.00
Coffee table $ 140.00
It is impossible to price many items or maintenance services in the Village, as they are generally dependant
on the damage caused. All work carried out on a Do and Charge basis, will be charged at a rate equal to the
actual charge from the supplier or contractor to the Village plus an administration fee equivalent to 20% of
that cost.
Your community:
Village life
It won’t take you long to realise that there’s never a boring
moment at the Village. Village life is very informal - after all, it is your home. Lots of socialising takes place around the kitchens and common areas, and it’s not uncommon to find half a dozen people in the lounge watching TV.
Live, Learn, Grow
RMIT Village, as part of Campus Living Villages, provides you the place to Live, Learn & Grow. This is the
essence of our Residential Life program which provides for you facilities with a range of activities that
support your academic, personal and social life.
Living away from home for the first time can be a very challenging time. At the Village we believe that
being part of a supportive residential community can make all the difference.
Live: We facilitate the creation of a fun, friendly and diverse community through social events, sporting
and recreational activities and community development programs.
Learn: We support residents’ academic success through study support, study groups, academic advice,
financial assistance and educational facilities.
Grow: The Village encourages residents’ personal growth and transition to independence with a focus on
life skills, cultural awareness, social conscience, personal development and pastoral care.
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The Residential Life Coordinator manages a wide variety of activities and issues regular updates regarding
the dates and times they are held. Your RA also has the latest information, so go on - get involved and
enjoy the interaction! To see our most upcoming events, follow our social media sites:
www.facebook.com/rmitvillage/events
Instagram @rmitvillage #rmitvillage
Joining the gym
If sport is not for you but you want to stay fit you can join the gym! There are a number of gyms in the area:
RMIT University gym (Information can be gathered from RMIT city campus)
Melbourne University gym (Information can be gathered from Melbourne Uni)
The Underground Fitness Club located on Peel Street
Fitness First (situated in Melbourne Central, Level 4.)
Newly refurbished RMIT Village gym is located on Level 1 behind the Study area.(no charge)
Images of RMIT Village Gym
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Community living
Community and diversity are key components of Village life. We encourage all residents to be involved in activities if only in a small way. You will encounter people whose lifestyles,
backgrounds, personalities and values are different to your own. Take the time to get to know people around you, and never be afraid to ask questions, seek advice or guidance.
Living in shared accommodation: A survival guide
Living with a new person can be somewhat confronting - you don’t know their funny quirks and aren’t familiar
with their pet peeves. The important thing is that it doesn’t need to be. Indeed if you follow a few simple
rules you can ensure that you will get along with your new housemate(s).
Get to know each other. As each new housemate moves in, take the opportunity to show them around the
Village and have a coffee together or grab a meal.
If you are going to be living with these people for the next 12 months (or 6 months minimum for International
students), the sooner you get to know them, the better.
Decide from the outset whether you are going to share cooking and grocery shopping.
Whilst sharing the cooking is a great way of minimizing costs, it isn’t for everyone. You need to consider if you
have similar tastes and budgets and it always helps if the other person can cook.
Be considerate with your use of shared facilities and equipment.
If something has strong sentimental value to you, don’t leave it in a communal area but store it in your room,
otherwise it may get accidently broken.
Be aware of the noise you and any guests you have over produce. This is a common courtesy which should
extend to all residents. Please also remember that ALL guests onsite after midnight must be pre-registered at
Reception or by the RA on duty. Each resident is entitled to one guest for two nights maximum over a
consecutive seven night period, only with their roommates approval. Any unregistered/over-staying guests
will be asked to leave the Village immediately.
Your guest is your responsibility, and must be with you at all times (as they are not issued with a key).
Don’t hog the bathroom.
If you are going to be messy, restrict it to your room and do not allow it to spread to communal areas.
Don’t leave dirty dishes overnight– there is nothing worse than having to do the dishes before you can
have some breakfast in the morning.
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Change the toilet roll when it is empty.
Take out the garbage when the bag looks full.
Arrange a cleaning roster for communal lounge areas, kitchens and bathrooms if you and your roommate
have differing views on cleanliness.
Resolving difficulties
Living with other people involves a balance between patience and knowing when to raise issues that are
affecting your personal wellbeing.
If you have an issue with a fellow resident, try first to talk about that issue with the person concerned. Try to
talk about it before you are at bursting point. Talk about how the actions of the other person are affecting
your happiness in the house. Don’t get into accusations. Think of solutions that can accommodate the
interests of all involved.
If you feel that you are unable to come up with suitable compromises yourselves you can call a Resident
Assistant to discuss strategies with them, or contact Management via Reception.
Sanctioned room moves (only approved in exceptional circumstances and subject to availability) will incur a
room-move fee of $150.00 and will be subject to the usual room condition report processes.
Please see the Visitor Policy further along in the Handbook as this could cause problems between house
mates.
Noise
An important part of becoming a member of the Village community is having respect for fellow residents. It is
important to remember that not everyone has the same workload and whilst you may be free to party and
have a good time others may have assessments due in the next day. It is for this reason that we ask you to
abide by the Village Noise policy. (See appendix C).
Partying at the village
A major part of Village life is about socialising and having a good time. We encourage people to interact with
one another in a safe environment. The Glass House or Student Lounge are also great places to host
gatherings. You are allowed to have parties on site; you simply have to fill in a party application and it needs
to be approved by the General Manager. (See appendix D). You are responsible for your guests and must
ensure the venue is cleaned afterwards.
Smoking
There is to be no smoking in rooms, balconies or by the pool. There is a designated smoking area in the
courtyard in front of the Student Lounge (See appendix B). Please respect this policy and be courteous of
those around you. Please also dispose of cigarette butts in the ashtrays provided.
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Your safety, security and
personal wellbeing
The Village is designed with your safety in mind. While our city is a friendly place, it is dynamic and like any city it is
sensible to be security conscious both at home and when you are out and about. Campus Living Villages provides after hours Village security. We advise residents to always lock their bedroom door upon leaving the apartment.
Personal wellbeing
The Village Evening Duty Manager is on duty weekdays from 8:30pm to 5:00am. On weekends and public
holidays, uniformed security patrols the grounds between 10:00pm and 3:00am. There is also a Resident
Assistant (RA) on duty who is contactable at any time on 0433 283 610. 24 hour video surveillance also
monitors the Village for your security.
Our first priority here at the Village is to ensure that you as a member of our community feel safe and
secure; however, you will need to take responsibility for yourself to ensure your own safety as well. The
Village is located in the inner city of Melbourne. Like any big city, when traveling to and from the Village,
especially at night, you should take simple security precautions. Stick to busy, well lit streets and try not to
walk alone. If you feel that your personal security is threatened at any time you should first contact the police
on ‘000’ and then contact the Resident Assistant on duty.
Bikes
Bikes must be stowed at various designated bike racks throughout the Village. If you have a bicycle then you
need to use a heavy-duty lock that is very hard to cut such as a “U-Bolt”. If your bike has flip lock wheels
then consider securing these and taking flip lock seats with you. Please ensure that your bike / belongings are
secured as the Village accepts no responsibility for stolen property.
Cars
It is advisable not to leave any valuables in sight such as stereos, wallets, keys, coins, mobile phones or
cameras. Consider leaving your glove box open so that people can see there is nothing of worth to steal. The
Village does not accept any responsibility for any stolen goods and damage done to your car.
Doors and windows
Always remember to ensure all doors are securely closed behind you, particularly foyer and fire doors and
balcony doors. It is important that residents take responsibility for the security of their own apartments and
buildings. Very simple precautions such as checking you always lock the front and balcony doors to
apartments when not in the living room, lock windows and draw curtains when not in your bedroom, can
reduce the likelihood of burglary. Also remember to NEVER leave your door propped open as this just encourages
people to walk into your room uninvited. Please ensure all your personal belongings are secure as the Village
accepts no responsibility for stolen goods.
RMIT Village Residents’ Handbook 2014 20
Suspicious persons
Only residents can gain access to corridor entrances. If you see anyone acting suspiciously, alert Village
administration or a Resident Assistant by calling 0433 283 610
Drugs – legal & illegal
We have placed information about drugs under this section because our primary concern is your safety.
Alcohol is perhaps the most widely used “drug” in society and its use can have a very negative impact. The
negative health effects of alcohol are widely known and include heart and liver disease. The regular and
excessive use of alcohol can have a major impact on your personal relationships, work and study. If you are
drinking several times a week and doing it every week, then you may have an addiction to alcohol. There is
also a strong link between alcohol and violence, including date rape.
We’re not here to preach but we do want you to be safe and enjoy all aspects of life. RMIT Village does NOT
support the use of any illegal drugs. The possession and use of marijuana is illegal by law in Australia.
A few things to note about drugs in the Village:
The use of marijuana and all other illicit drugs is prohibited.
If you are in possession of, dealing (selling) marijuana or any other illicit drug in the Village the police will
be called and you will also be required to immediately move out of the Village.
If there are reasonable grounds or suspicions of illicit drug use then random drug searches may be
authorized by Village Management and carried out by local Police authorities.
If you think you have an alcohol or drug problem and don’t know who to see for assistance any of our
staff members are available to help and can assist you to see a doctor or counsellor.
Your welfare is our primary concern. In the evenings, you can always contact the on-call RA or Evening
Duty Manager if you or your friends need help.
Personal issues
Personal issues, such as academic stress, alcohol abuse, depression and eating disorders may strain
relationships in a living situation. It is both a resident’s right and a resident’s responsibility to seek help when
such issues become disruptive.
Studies on alcohol abuse within universities show that there are significant secondary affects for roommates
and friends of those who drink excessively. A resident’s concern about protecting a roommate’s privacy, where
excessive drinking is involved or otherwise, should not keep him or her from getting support personally or for
that other person.
If a resident is worried about a friend, if the behaviour of another resident affects living habits of others, he or
she has the right and responsibility to seek help both personally and for that other person. It may be that the
resident’s action spares the individual concerned painful consequences – then or later. You may seek
assistance from a Resident Assistant or Village Management.
Further information and help
If you need help or want to talk to someone about excessive alcohol use, quitting smoking or problems you
may have with illicit drugs, then think about dropping into your University Health Service or make an
appointment to see a doctor.
Sexual decision making
No one should feel pressured into being sexually active. Despite greater sexual freedom in recent times, and
more openness in discussing sexual attitudes and behaviour, don’t feel forced into behaviours you aren’t yet
RMIT Village Residents’ Handbook 2014 21
ready for. You need to feel comfortable with the decisions you make in this regard. Decisions about sexual
behaviour should be made thoughtfully. Everyone has their own set of values and attitudes and people are
ready to engage in different sexual behaviours at different times. Go with what feels right for you.
If you and your partner decide to be sexually active, both of you should take some responsibility for health
care within the relationship. You have to decide how much physical contact to have, and you have to make
decisions about contraception.
Partners should share these responsibilities and should respect each other’s wishes. It is vital to consider the
consequences of sexual involvement. These could include: unwanted pregnancy, dealing with the issue of
abortion, early marriage, HIV and so on. These issues need to be discussed with your partner before you start
a sexual relationship. These aren’t easy decisions. If you need some guidance, the Red Aware organisation
can provide information and referral; they also have an excellent website: www.redaware.org.au with many
facts and support tips. Your General Practitioner is also a good source of help in discussing the options in
contraceptive control.
There are times when you are vulnerable to being swept away in strong feelings, for example in the party
context with free flowing alcohol, when spur of the moment impulses may lead you into unwise behaviour.
Don’t forget, you can always see a medical practitioner at your University Health Service following such a
time.
If you want to talk about relationship issues at any time, and feel uneasy talking with a Village RA, make an
appointment to see a Counsellor at the University, which is free and confidential.
Harassment
Harassment has no place within any of our Villages or halls and the residential management team have a
proper concern where the behaviour of students towards other students may constitute harassment.
Such behaviour may take the following forms (but is not limited to): offensive jokes; expressing stereotypes
(assumptions about an individual’s behaviour, values or culture based on a group they belong to); derogatory
or offensive material sent through the mail or email; physical contact; intimidation, abuse or assault.
Behaviour is considered harassment when it is unwelcome or offensive to the recipient and is repeated or of
such a significant nature that it has a detrimental effect on the recipient’s ability to study or engage in his or
her normal activity.
Harassment complaints procedure:
In the first instance, assistance may be provided by Village Management.
A little about you
Your personal details It is really important that you keep the Village up to date with all your personal details.
For instance, you must have notified to us your current e-mail address to access the Village intranet.. Please
note that once you check-out, mail IS NOT redirected to this address. It is the residents’ responsibility to
update mail delivery or to arrange a mail redirection service through Australia Post.
Please note personal details are kept in the strictest confidence in accordance with the RMIT Village
Melbourne Privacy Policy (Appendix E in this Handbook). To change any personal details, log on to the RMIT
Village website by following the link “Current Residents” or please come to Reception and leave your new
details with a Receptionist, who will update them for you.
RMIT Village Residents’ Handbook 2014 22
Staying connected
Communication within the Village
Friday Updates will be sent to your email every Friday and will keep you update on what is happening around
Melbourne and around The Village. If you would like to publish an article or contribute photos to the Friday
updates, please let an RA know.
Village events calendar
Check the Village Calendar at the start of each month with all the upcoming events, public holidays, sporting
draws, community fundraisers and any other exciting things happening throughout the semester. The
calendars are posted on notice boards and the Village Facebook page: www.facebook.com/rmitvillage.
Reception
Reception is also a great place to touch base with the Village. Here you can get information for upcoming
events, contact information and general enquires.
Email from the Village will inform you of any changes within the Village or upcoming events. Be sure to give
your email address to Reception in order to stay connected!
Telephone
The telephone in your room can be used to make internal calls between rooms for free. To do so you simply
dial ‘2’ and then the persons room number you are trying to contact.
Eg. To call room 345 you would dial ‘2345’. Please note that for room numbers under 50, you need to add
“20” in front and add 50 to the number. Eg. To call room 28 you would dial 2078.
You may also receive external direct calls to your apartment. Your direct line follows your extension as per
above. Just add “8330“ in front of your 8-digit telephone number. Don’t forget the area code is 03 for
Melbourne and +61 for Australia
Eg. For apartment 28, your number is (03)8330-2078.
RMIT Village Residents’ Handbook 2014 23
Where to go for help
The resident support team
You will meet all your Resident Assistants (RAs) within a short period of living at the Village and will be
officially introduced at the beginning of O’ Week. O’ Week is a week of events organised to induct you into our
Village community through social games, dress up parties, BBQ’s, live entertainment and more. It is
important that you become familiar with the RA team as they are your bridge between residents and the
Village management.
No matter how big or small you think your problem is you can always approach one of the Resident Assistant
(RA) Team or the Evening Duty Manager to ask for help (chances are they have come across a problem like
yours before).
The team is your first point of call for any difficulty that you may encounter whilst living in the Village and
they can provide you with advice, support and where appropriate refer you on to other organizations within
the Village for help. They can help with lockouts, noise complaints, resident disputes and more serious
matters.
If you are having trouble with Uni, experiencing emotional problems or stress, are ill or just in need of a chat,
please feel free to contact a Resident Assistant after hours on 0433 283 610 or the Evening Duty Manager.
Save this number into your mobile phone, it will certainly come in handy! Alternatively, you can arrange a
time during office hours to meet with the General Manager, Village Manager or Residential Life Coordinator to
discuss your problem.
Locked out of your apartment?
There is always someone in the Village who can assist you to get back into your apartment or room if you
lock yourself out. To encourage you to carry your key with you there is a $10 after hours lock out charge that
is donated by the Village to a designated charity. During office hours, you should contact Reception.
After office hours (5:00pm on business days), lockouts are attended to by either the On-Call RA or Security.
Remember that other more pressing matters may prohibit these staff from attending to your lockout straight
away, so please be patient.
RMIT Village Residents’ Handbook 2014 24
In case of emergenciesFire
Fire alarms are a life and death matter and must be treated as such. Please listen for fire alarms and follow
the procedures set out below. To minimise fire risk in the Village, do not use any open fire sources in your
apartment. This includes lighters, candles, incense burners, all of which are forbidden by Village rules. Do not
leave cooking unattended, or leave heaters or irons on in your room in your absence. Toasters, Rice cookers,
kettles should be used only in your kitchen.
ALWAYS USE THE EXTRACTION FAN WHEN COOKING AND KEEP BALCONY DOOR OPEN TO REMOVE
COOKING SMOKE.
Do not open the apartment door to corridor to remove cooking smoke. False alarm fees payable by residents
to Fire Brigade are a minimum of $1,800, usually reaching as high as $2,700.
Procedures When you hear the alert alarm (BEEP BEEP BEEP)
Switch off all appliances, grab your room key and wait for further instructions or the evacuation alarm.
When you hear the evacuation alarm (WHOOP WHOOP WHOOP) you MUST evacuate via the nearest EXIT.
Proceed to assembly area as instructed by safety personnel
The authorities will advise when it is safe to return to your apartment.
TAKE YOUR ROOM KEY WITH YOU. LEAVE ALL BELONGINGS BEHIND.
Who in the village responds to fire alarms?
During office hours, the staff in the office will investigate fire alarms. If outside of office hours and you hear a
fire alarm going off or set off a fire alarm in your apartment, it is important that you tell someone about it.
Even if you’ve just burnt the toast and the alarm goes off for a minute or two, you need to tell someone
about it so that the alarms can be re-set. After hours it will be the RA on duty and Evening Duty Manager
and/or Security who will respond to the fire alarm. Call 0433 283 610 for the on-call RA.
Medical
Always ensure that the Village knows if you or your housemates have experienced a serious medical
emergency. If the emergency is of a serious nature do not hesitate to phone an ambulance by dialing 000.
If you are unsure of what to do you should phone a Resident Assistant immediately. They will attend, assess
the situation and contact the relevant people, ambulance, security etc.
Hospital
If you feel the need at anytime to go to hospital please let the RA on duty or Reception know. The Royal
Melbourne hospital is situated just down the road on Grattan St.
RMIT Village Residents’ Handbook 2014 25
Doctors and dentists:
There are several Doctors and Dentists in the local area as listed on the following page. Doctors Telephone Number
Swanston Street Medical Centre (SSMC) 393 Swanston St, Melbourne, opposite Storey Hall. Bulk- billing doctors for fulltime local students. Physiotherapist, dentist.
(03) 9654 2722
City Baths Medical Practice 420 Swanston St, Melbourne. Bulk-billing doctors for fulltime local students. No payment required for fulltime international students with current
Medibank Private health insurance.
(03) 9662 4644
Melbourne Sexual Health Centre 580 Swanston St, Carlton.
Specialist sexual health bulk-billing doctors, and nurses HIV testing, and STI info. Online information.
(03) 9347 0244 or 1800 032 017
www.mshc.org.au
Family Planning Victoria. Level 1, 94 Elizabeth St, Melbourne (between Collins and Little Collins Street)
The Action Centre for Young People (under 25)
(03) 9654 4766 www.fpv.org.au
Women’s Health Service Royal Women’s Hospital 132 Grattan St, Carlton.
(03) 9344 2183
http://www.rwh.org.au/wellwomens/index.cfm?doc_id=2278
CASA House (Centre against Sexual Assault) 3rd floor, Queen Victoria Women’s Centre. 210 Lonsdale St, Melbourne. Provides services which recognize and promote the rights of victims of sexual assault.
(03) 9244 2210
After hours – (03) 9349 1766 Email – [email protected]
Victoria St Medical Centre 436 Victoria St, North Melbourne
(03) 9328 4034
Dentists Telephone Number
Melbourne Dental Ceramics Level 4, 134 Flinders St, Melbourne
(03) 9650 5500
Collins Dental Image 220 Collins St, Melbourne
(03) 9650 6622
Queen Street Dental Group Suite 204, 150 Queen St
(03) 9670 3576
RMIT Village Residents’ Handbook 2014 26
Your community:
Local and Melbourne city
Entertainment
Apart from life at the Village, the city of Melbourne is renowned for its great entertainment in all areas of
sport, art, music and religion. Some venues that maybe of interest are:
Cinema centres:
Main stream Movies can be seen at ‘Hoyts Cinema in Melbourne Central’ and ‘Village Cinemas in Crown
Casino’.
Art House movies can be seen at ‘Nova Cinema’ on Lygon Street.
Sporting venues:
MCG, Etihad Stadium, Rod Laver Arena, Hisense Arena
The Royal Melbourne Zoo:
Located a few blocks from the Village (or accessible via Tram 55 heading away from the City).
Music concerts:
Rod Laver Arena, Myer Music bowl, Festival Hall
Theatre and musicals:
Athenaeum Theatre
188 Collins St. Carlton
Courthouse Theatre
349 Drummond St.
Comedy Theatre
240 Exhibition St.
Art galleries:
Alcaston House Gallery
2 Collins St.
Aboriginal Desert Art
31 Flinders Lane.
National Gallery of Victoria
Federation Square
For more venues and information check out
www.thatsmelbourne.com.au.
This site showcases the wide variety of events, shows and nightlife that Melbourne has to offer!
RMIT Village Residents’ Handbook 2014 27
Eating local
For those of you who are sick of cooking and looking for somewhere else to eat check out the local cafés,
pubs, restaurants and fast food outlets!
Here are some nearby:
Little Richard Pizza Bar (located in the RMIT Village building) The Turf Club (right next door)
Flavors Café (on Flemington rd opposite 7/11)
The Metro (on Blackwood St)
The Castle (on Wrecklyn St)
Domino’s Pizza (on Grattan St)
KFC (on Grattan St)
Lanna Thai (on Flemington road further up from 7-11)
Classic Curry (Two blocks down Elizabeth Street)
Lygon Street has a great selection of authentic Italian food
Transport For complete information on public transport in Melbourne, please visit www.ptv.vic.gov.au.
Trams:
The best way to get around the city is on the Tram network, there are stops right outside the Village on
Flemington Rd no. 59 and another on Elizabeth St no. 19.
Remember you need to purchase a MyKi card to use the tram, trains and buses. You can purchase it at the
local Seven Eleven prior to your travel or purchase your card in the train station using the ticket machine. The
majority of travelling you will do will be in Zone 1 – feel free to ask Reception staff for transport tips and
directions.
Trains:
There are also three main train stations used for further travel, Southern Cross Station on Spencer St,
Flinders St Station and Melbourne Central Station on Elizabeth St.
Taxi:
The Village uses the Yellow Cab Taxi Service. There is a phone in the foyer that automatically connects you to
yellow cabs free of charge, you are welcome to use it at any time. Alternatively you can contact them on 13
CABS or 132 227.
RMIT Village Residents’ Handbook 2014 28
Handy numbers Emergency Services Telephone Number
Police/Ambulance/Fire
000
Duty Resident Assistant
0433 283 610
Reception (Business hours)
(03) 8330 2000 or #9 on internal phone.
Village Extensions
Reception Office Telephone / Email
(03) 8330 2000 or #9 [email protected]
Michael Lynch – General Manager
Regan Shawcross – Village Manager
Gary Guo – Village Accountant
Francois Soupe – Facilities Manager
Adrian Geddes – Evening Duty Manager
[email protected] or 0401 056 633
Kylie Holland – Residential Life Coordinator
[email protected] or 0433 283 351
CLV Head Office
Phone
02 9270 1600
Internet Service
Access Plus Customer Support 1300 739 822