Full Breakdown
Evacuation at Edith Cowan University's New Campus Due to Gas Leak Reports
2/25/2026, 8:47:33 PM
Incident Overview
On February 22, 2026, Edith Cowan University's (ECU) newly opened $853 million campus in Perth's Central Business District was evacuated following reports of strong fumes and a suspected gas leak. The evacuation occurred just three days after the campus commenced lectures, with hundreds of students and staff leaving the nine-storey building shortly before 2 PM. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services Western Australia responded to the incident, and no injuries were reported.
Evacuation Details
The evacuation was triggered by an automatic alarm on level four of the building. According to an email sent to students, the alarm was activated during ongoing construction work, specifically paint works on level six. While the university did not confirm a gas leak as the cause, it stated that independent air quality testing was being conducted as a precaution. Students reported smelling paint fumes prior to the alarm, leading some to initially believe it was a drill.
Student Anand Christie expressed mixed feelings about missing class due to the evacuation, while fellow student Fiona Mushoma described the process as initially scary but ultimately calm and orderly. The campus remained closed for the day, with students advised to retrieve essential items under supervision in Yagan Square.
Background and Context
The evacuation incident is part of a series of challenges faced by ECU's new campus, which relocated from Mount Lawley to Yagan Square after three years of construction. Previous issues included the discovery of asbestos in 14 fire doors and an incident where students were trapped in a lift. Deputy Vice-Chancellor Braden Hill confirmed that emergency services had to assist students trapped in the lift, ensuring their safe removal without injuries.
Official Statements
An ECU spokesperson stated, “ECU is continuing its investigation into how the alarm was triggered but can confirm that there were no injuries reported and all students and staff were evacuated safely.” The university emphasized that the evacuation was conducted in accordance with standard safety protocols.
Criticism and Opposition
Some students expressed frustration over the series of issues at the new campus, highlighting concerns about safety and the impact on their education. International student Anand Christie noted the financial burden of tuition fees and the disappointment of missing classes due to the evacuation.
What's Next
As investigations into the cause of the alarm and air quality continue, it remains uncertain when classes will resume. The university is expected to implement remediation measures based on the findings of the ongoing assessments.
Verbatim Quotes
- “They just said apparently there was a gas leak,” — Fiona Mushoma, Commerce Student
- “(ABC News) "As an international student you pay a lot," he said.” — Anand Christie, International Student
- “ECU is continuing its investigation into how the alarm was triggered but can confirm that there were no injuries reported and all students and staff were evacuated safely,” — ECU Spokesperson
