The purpose of the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes (the Code) is to promote the ethical, humane and responsible care and use of animals used for scientific purposes. It provides guidance for investigators, institutions, animals ethics committees, animal carers and all those involved in the care and use of animals for scientific purposes. Further information about the background and purpose of the Code is also available.

Table of contents
Introduction
Section 1: Governing principles
Section 2: Responsibilities
2.1: Responsibilities of institutions
2.2: Responsibilities of institutions regarding the governance of an animal ethics committee
2.3: Responsibilities of animal ethics committees
2.4: Responsibilities of investigators
2.5: Responsibilities of animal carers
2.6: Other responsibilities of institutions, investigators and animal ethics committees
2.7: Responsibilities of institutions when developing an animal ethics committee application form
Section 3: Animal wellbeing
3.1: Strategies to support and safeguard animal wellbeing
3.2: Animal care and management
3.3: Specific procedures
3.4: Provisions for animals at the conclusion of their use
Section 4: The care and use of animals for the achievement of educational outcomes in science
Section 5: Complaints and non-compliance
Section 6: Independent external review of the operation of institutions
Section 7: Cosmetic Testing
Appendix: Process Report