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Research ethics

Find out how we ensure ethical and responsible research practices involving humans, animals and genetically modified organisms.

We're committed to the highest standards of ethical and responsible research because we believe in doing things the right way. Where our research involves people as participants, animals or genetically modified organisms, we ensure that risks of harm are considered and managed, keeping people, animals and the environment safe for all of us.

How we support research ethics and biosafety

Where research or teaching involves animals, an animal ethics review is required. Our Animal Ethics Committee reviews and monitors applications in line with the Australian Code of Practice for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes (2013). This ensures the principles of Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement are applied to safeguard animal welfare.

You can find out more by downloading the Animal Ethics Committee terms of reference (PDF 246 KB).

Where research or teaching involves genetically modified organisms, any risks must be carefully assessed and safeguards put in place. Our Institutional Biosafety Committee reviews applications in line with the Gene Technology Act to protect researchers, students, our communities, and the environment.

Where research involves people’s data, information, or biospecimens, a human research ethics review is required. Our Human Research Ethics Committee reviews applications in line with the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research. This ensures participants can make an informed choice about taking part, understand what’s involved and any potential impacts, and that the benefits of the research outweigh any risk of harm.

You can find out more by downloading the Human Research Ethics Committee terms of reference (PDF 100 KB).

Interested in joining on of our committees?

We welcome members of the public to join our committees. If you’re interested in becoming a member or want to learn more, email us at research.ethics@federation.edu.au.

Openness in animal research and teaching

Federation University is a proud signatory of the Openness Agreement on Animal Research and Teaching in Australia. Find out more about this pledge and what our commitments are.

Research ethics resources

You can learn more about the committees, find meeting dates and submission deadlines, and submit proposals for ethics approval on our SharePoint site.

Contact us

If you have a question or need advice about research ethics, email research.ethics@federation.edu.au.