Animal ethics committees
Animal Ethics Committees (AECs) govern the use of animals in research, teaching and product testing. Their role is to advise and monitor the use and supply of animals for these purposes.
They must also ensure that all activities conducted in their institution or by the independent researchers they supervise, complies with the Animal Research Act 1985, Regulations and Code of Practice.
At the institutional level, AECs provide an avenue for public participation in the regulation of animal research. AECs are responsible for monitoring research and teaching activities and, where applicable, animal supply within the institution. This includes inspections of animals and facilities.
Committees must consider and evaluate requests to use animals for research or teaching activities on the basis of investigators’ responses to a comprehensive set of questions including the justification for the research; its likely impact on the animals; and procedures for preventing or alleviating pain and distress.
On behalf of the institution, AECs have the power to stop non-approved activities and may withdraw approvals for on-going work. They can also require that adequate care, including emergency care, is provided.
They provide guidance and support to researchers on matters relevant to animal welfare through the preparation of guidelines and dissemination of relevant scientific literature. They are also responsible for advising the institution on changes to facilities to meet required standards.
There are three types of AEC
Research Establishment AEC - appointed by the establishment to oversee all animal research in that organisation.
The Director-General's AEC - appointed by the Director-General of NSW Department of Primary Industries to oversee research by independent animal researchers who are not affiliated with an accredited research establishment AEC.
The Schools AEC - appointed to oversee the use of animals in most schools.
ARRP Policies
Polices on specific issues are developed by the Animal Research Review Panel and the Animal Welfare Branch to assist those involved in their understanding of the requirements of the Animal Research Act, the Regulations and the Code of Practice.
You will find a number of polices which relate to the operation of Animal Ethics committees under the link to ‘Policies and Guidelines’ including,
- Criteria for assessment of AEC membership
- Orientation of new members
- Annual reporting
- Frequency of meetings
- AEC inspections
- Conflict of interest
In the link under Education and Training you will find specific information with regard to resources for AEC members.
Further information can be found in Policies and Guidelines