Ethics

Animal Ethics Committee

The objective of the Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) is to ensure the humane care of animals used for scientific purposes under the auspices of Charles Darwin University. The Committee reviews proposals for the use of animals for scientific purposes and monitors the care and the use of animals.

You may be required to obtain clearance from the Animal Ethics Committee if your project involves:

Experimentation on animals of any sort, whether in the field or laboratory; fauna surveys
Observation of animals, irrespective of whether disturbance is caused
Teaching activities that involve the use of animals

The most important set of guidelines for the AEC is the National Health and Medical Council's Australian Code of Practice for the use of animals for scientific purposes. Other NHMRC, state and animal welfare body guidelines are also used to inform the process and these are available from the AEC.

Download the NHMRC Australian Code of Practice for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes - 2004 (.pdf).

Note: You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view pdf files. Get Adobe Acrobat reader.

The AEC Terms of Reference are available for your perusal.

Where can I obtain clearance forms?

You may download the required reading and application forms here.

When does the AEC meet?

The AEC meets approximately every 6 weeks to review Animal Research Ethics Clearance applications and Animal Ethics clearance renewals or progress reports. Go to the calendar of meetings for full dates.