The threat – posted on social media site 4chan – forced police into action, with units dispatched to UTAS’s major campuses in Launceston, Burnie and Hobart.

Tasmania Police, New South Wales Police and the Australian Federal Police are now investigating the incident.

The user – who police believe may also be linked to threats against the University of New South Wales and international universities - said: 

‘‘I’ve wanted to kill myself for a while now and finally I have a gun I might as well take out a few nomies with me. Don’t go to Tas Uni (University of Tasmania, Australia tomorrow). I’m going to turn off my internet and leave so the cops don’t get me. The timing is right guys ... sorry.’’

Police and UTAS responded to the incident about 7.45pm on Monday and a warning was subsequently sent out by the university to staff and students, advising them of the threat and encouraging them to stay home on Tuesday.

On Tuesday morning, Tasmania Police deemed the threat was not credible and the university operated as normal throughout the day, despite the presence of police at major campuses.

Southern District Commander Glenn Frame said Tasmania Police’s Counter Terrorism Unit and Special Operations Group were informed of the incident, but further action was never required.

He said he was satisfied with the responses from police and the university to the situation.

Two police officers were posted at UTAS’s Inveresk, Burnie and Sandy Bay campuses, along with roaming patrols.

Police and UTAS have advised that the presence of officers and increased university security will be downgraded, however.

‘‘We believe the threat was consistent with other jurisdictions’ threats – we don’t think it’s a local incident that’s occurred,’’ Commander Frame said.

‘‘Our initial analysis is that it’s likely to be the same person, internationally as well as nationally. 

‘‘It’s only early in the investigation, but what we can reassure people is that we don’t believe it’s a threat from within Tasmania. That’s the most important message I think that we need to get out there.’’

UTAS human resources executive director Chris Smyth thanked police for their vigilance.

‘‘I can tell you we increased [security] across all our campuses once we became aware of the threat,’’ he said.

‘‘We’ll keep a [security] presence around all of our campuses, we might scale that back to the appropriate level.’’

■If anyone witnesses suspicious or out of the ordinary behaviour, they should contact Tasmania Police on 131 444, or the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.

■If you need help, you can contact Lifeline on 131114, beyondblue on 1300224636, Lifelink Samaritans on 1300364566, Kids Helpline on 1800551800, MensLine Australia 1300789978 or Suicide callback service 1300659467, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.