Last August, the impact of COVID-19 on occupancy rates forced the University of Wollongong to temporarily close the two student accommodation residences.

Read more: Positive signs as campus life returning to normal

However, the university is closely monitoring the unfolding situation regarding international student movements and will evaluate the reopening of Weerona College in Gwynneville and International House, located near North Wollongong railway station, at the corner of Porter and Hindmarsh avenues, beyond 2021.

In better news, UOW currently has an occupancy rate of about 90 per cent across its 2021 accommodation offerings, or 1640 residents across fives sites.

About 80 per cent of those residents are Australian students.

"The high level of occupancy in the student residences operating in 2021 affirms UOW's decision to temporarily close two residences, Weerona College and International House, due to the impact of COVID-19 on international student numbers and accommodation occupancy rates," a spokesman said.

"The university is committed to creating vibrant and engaging communities and an enhanced student experience in residences, and the temporary closures have enabled UOW to achieve this goal in 2021 through a high occupancy rate in the five residences that remain open.

"UOW's residences offer students an environment committed to providing high academic achievement, involvement, development and fun.

"Students place a high value on the connectivity that campus residences provide and the ability to access social, well-being, mental health and other support services while enjoying convenient access to UOW facilities such as the library.

"All residences feature student development and peer mentor programs, social, sporting and cultural events, and 24/7 student wellbeing care."

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