Research quality and integrity
The conduct of research in Australia is governed by a framework comprising three key documents:
- the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research 2018;
- the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research; and
- the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes.
These documents provide the integrity framework and explain what is expected of researchers by the community. They have been jointly developed by the National Health and Medical Research Council, the Australian Research Council and Universities Australia.
Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research
The Code is the primary document governing research integrity and states:
The Code sets out principles and responsibilities that both researchers and institutions are expected to follow when conducting research. Critical to this endeavour are the moral leadership and espoused values of the institution and the shared values and expectations of honesty and integrity that characterise an institution’s leadership and culture.
More information about the code is available on the NHMRC’s website.
National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research
The purpose of this National Statement is to promote ethically good human research. Fulfilment of this purpose requires that participants be accorded the respect and protection that is due to them. It also involves the fostering of research that is of benefit to the community.
More information about the national statement is available on the NHMRC’s website.
Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes
The purpose of this 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.
More information about the code is available on the NHMRC’s website.
