Animal Ethics Resources
The Australian code of practice for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes - 8th Edition 2013 is required reading for those whose research involves animals
"The purpose of the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes 8th edition 2013 (the Code) is to promote the ethical, humane and responsible care and use of animals used for scientific purposes. The ethical framework and governing principles set out in the Code provide guidance for investigators, teachers, institutions, animal ethics committees and all people involved in the care and use of animals for scientific purposes." - NHMRC
Guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Instrumentation Guidelines
Euthanasia Guidelines
Trapping
Housing and Care of Laboratory Mice, Rats, Guinea Pigs and Rabbits
The Victorian Code of Practice for the Housing and Care of Laboratory Mice, Rats, Guinea Pigs and Rabbits is the reference document used in Tasmania as the minimum standards of care for laboratory animals including cage size, room temperatures, humidity, lighting, bedding and enrichment, species specific behavioural requirements, emergency plans.
It also has examples of animal monitoring and welfare assessment sheets and is a very useful resource for investigators.
Miscellaneous AEC Guidelines
Other Important Sites for Guidelines:
- Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research, Australian Government 2007;
- ANZCCART Guidelines on Euthanasia of animals used for scientific purposes 2001,(under review);
- Guidelines to promote the wellbeing of animals used for scientific purposes; the assessment and alleviation of pain and distress in research animals, Australian Government 2008;
- Guidelines for the generation, breeding, care and use of genetically modified and cloned animals for scientific purposes, Australian Government 2007;
- A training resource compiled by the Procedures with Care Organisation (UK) demonstrating best practice aseptic techniques and the administration of substances;
- Victoria Department of Environment and Primary Industries Codes of Practice for Animal Welfare
Victoria Department of Environment and Primary Industries Code for the housing and care of laboratory mice, rats, guinea pigs and rabbits;
- Animal Welfare Act, State of Tasmania, 1993 (Regulations to part 4 of the Act, 2013);
- Veterinary Surgeons Regulations, State of Tasmania, 2012.
Animal Welfare Committee
For further information regarding the Committee, please email the Executive Officer or phone +61 3 6226 7283
