The university is allocating $8.5m for student support and is targeting donors for another $4m

VC Colin Stirling is personally kicking $100 000 into the tin, with other members of the university executive contributing a further $200 000.

The vice chancellor estimates 4000 local students, largely from equity groups will need help, with their jobs gone and many not having the cash for the IT kit needed to study on-line. Half of the 3500 internationals, who have no access to support payments and can’t go home, will also be hard-hit.

The package includes $1 million in $500 emergency payments allocated via the student association, $2000 scholarships and a waiver of the student services and amenities fee.

Flinders U follows Uni South Australia, which announced a $10m student assistance fund.