AHRECS expands to encompass animal ethics

We are committed to excellence in animal wellbeing and assisting institutions to meet and exceed their regulatory compliance obligations.

Animal use for scientific purposes is governed by the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes (the Code). 

The Code promotes the ethical, humane and responsible care and use of animals for scientific purposes. It provides a framework and governing principles to guide decisions and actions of all those involved in the care and use of animals for scientific purposes – where the aim is to acquire, develop or demonstrate knowledge or techniques in any area of science.  It details the responsibilities of investigators, animal carers, institutions, and animal ethics committees, and describes processes for accountability.

Our expertise can assist institutions to interpret and apply the Code, including: 

(i) establishing and managing Animal Ethics Committees (AECs) and the operating structures and policies which guide this

(ii) developing and reviewing policies and procedures related to animal care, use and rehoming and the oversight of animal ethics.

(iii) consultation and advice to AECs, researchers, carers, teachers, and institutions

(iv) offering seminars, workshops and training for AEC members, researchers and care staff

(v) supporting institutions to prepare for, coordinate, conduct or respond to an external review of animal ethics

(vi) advising on the practical application of the Code e.g. monitoring approved research

(vii) recommending approaches to tricky/contentious animal ethics questions. This can include supporting an AEC to frame their review feedback to an application or supporting a researcher deciding how to respond to review feedback;

(viii) providing confidential advice during the initial consideration of a research integrity matter (e.g. a dispute regarding animal care, use, rehoming).