Most university students will continue with remote study for the rest of semester two as universities plot their return to on-campus activities.
Canberra's universities are encouraging their staff and students to be vaccinated but have stopped short of calling for mandatory vaccinations unless required for work placements.
The Australian National University is sticking with its decision to keep the majority of students and staff off campus this semester, with some researchers still able to access facilities for essential work.
An ANU spokesman said the university anticipated moving from a high alert level to a medium level by October 29.
"As lockdown eases, there will be more freedoms across our campus - including in our student residences," he said.
"Our return to campus will be gradual and considered, ensuring the safety of all our people as well as the wider community, and will be carried out in line with all directions from the ACT government and health authorities."
The University of Canberra has already brought back some students to finish their essential practical classes. The majority of students will continue with remote study for the rest of the year.
The Australian Catholic University chief operating officer and deputy vice-chancellor Dr Stephen Weller said lectures and tutorials would be online for the rest of the semester, but some practical classes would make a return under strict safety protocols.
Nursing, midwifery and paramedicine students students will be back to class from next week. Some ACU staff and students will be required to be vaccinated if they are going on a placement where a double dose of a COVID vaccine is mandatory.
"We are actively encouraging all staff and students to get vaccinated now they are eligible, and we have given staff time to get to an appointment during working hours," Dr Weller said.
UNSW Canberra is also planning its gradual return to campus with online learning to continue for the rest of the year.
"The health and safety of staff and students is our top priority and this is something we need to get right," a UNSW spokeswoman said.
Charles Sturt University has not ruled out a return to campuses before the end of the year, when it is permitted and safe to resume face-to-face learning. Masks, checking in, social distancing and good hygiene will continue to be part of university life.
Latrobe University, Monash University and the University of Melbourne have announced mandatory vaccination policies for when their campuses reopen.
