Curtin University,  the largest university in Perth, Western Australia (WA) by total number of students, has mandated vaccination requirements for all staff, students, campuses, and activities. A letter sent by Curtin Chief Operating Officer Fiona Notley to students on Feb. 10 revealed the university was aware that the new directives might be considered contentious by some. “While we know this is potentially controversial, this decision is part of our strategy to counter the impact of COVID-19 and protect the health and safety of the University community,” Notley said. Curtin is the first university in WA to enforce the requirement, joining the ranks of universities like Griffith, La Trobe, and University of Melbourne over on Australia’s eastern coast. While WA has one of the broadest proof of requirements in the nation, the state government has not mandated vaccination for universities. The statement also explained the decision was made after consultation with staff …