Edith Cowan University's recently opened Perth CBD campus was evacuated on Wednesday after reports of a gas leak prompted authorities to take precautionary measures. The campus, which cost $853 million and had just opened for lectures three days prior, saw hundreds of students evacuate the premises shortly before 2 PM. Reports indicate that the gas leak was related to ongoing construction work associated with the campus's development.

Students reported being informed that the gas might have entered air vents and spread inside the nine-storey building, causing immediate concern among faculty and security staff present at the scene. As the alarm sounded, students and teachers exited the building, gathering outside where security and police were present to ensure everyone's safety. An announcement over the speaker system confirmed that the campus would remain closed for the day and instructed students to return home.

This incident raises questions about safety protocols during the ongoing construction phases of such large-scale educational infrastructures. With the immediate evacuation and the nature of the reported gas leak, university authorities will likely conduct a thorough investigation to prevent similar occurrences in the future and ensure the safety of students and staff as the academic year progresses.