University in lockdown after threatening phone call

University in lockdown after threatening phone call

*This is an updated version of a story published Tuesday at 4.26pm.

The lockdown at Southern Cross University’s Lismore campus has been lifted after NSW Police confirmed there was "no current threat".

On Tuesday afternoon, approximately 800 people were evacuated from the university after a "threatening phone call" made around 1.30pm. Nearby schools also initiated lockdowns.

A statement was posted on the University’s Facebook page saying anyone planning to visit the campus should postpone.

“Our Lismore campus is under emergency lock-down. Police are currently on-site and all students and staff are advised to remain inside until given the all-clear,” the statement read.

The lockdowns of the University and the nearby schools have now been lifted.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Wayne Humphrey said the threats were “in relation to the use of firearms" but the all clear was given after police arrived at the scene and investigated.

“I can say at this stage I am comfortable there is no current threat," he said.

Police are working to determine whether the call was an “elaborate hoax or whether there was some substance to what occurred".

Acting Assistant Commissioner Humphrey said that whilst the police operation has ended, police will work cooperatively with university management and continue to maintain a high visibility presence on and around the campus.

Detectives from Richmond Police District have commenced investigations into the source of the phone calls and as their inquiries continue, they would like anyone with information to come forward.