The University of Tasmania AEC ensures that the ethical review, approval and monitoring of the care and use of animals for scientific purposes conducted on behalf of the University of Tasmania is in compliance with the Code.
The University of Tasmania AEC meets on a weekly basis. There are no deadlines for submissions.
The University of Tasmania AEC only reviews research submitted by UTAS staff and students. There are no fees.
The composition of an Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) is prescribed by the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes to comprise of:
Chairperson - Institutions should consider appointing a chairperson who holds a senior position in the institution. If the chairperson is an external appointee, institutions must provide the chairperson with the necessary support and authority to carry out the role
Category A - a person with qualifications in veterinary science that are recognised for registration as a veterinary surgeon in Australia, and with experience relevant to the institution’s activities or the ability to acquire relevant knowledge
Category B - a suitably qualified person with substantial and recent experience in the use of animals for scientific purposes relevant to the institution and the business of the AEC. This must include possession of a higher degree in research or equivalent experience. If the business of the AEC relates to the use of animals for teaching only, a teacher with substantial and recent experience may be appointed
Category C - a person with demonstrable commitment to, and established experience in, furthering the welfare of animals, who is not employed by or otherwise associated with the institution, and who is not currently involved in the care and use of animals for scientific purposes. Veterinarians with specific animal welfare interest and experience may meet the requirements of this category. While not representing an animal welfare organisation, the person should, where possible, be selected on the basis of active membership of, and endorsement by, such an organisation
Category D - a person not employed by or otherwise associated with the institution and who has never been involved in the use of animals in scientific or teaching activities, either in their employment or beyond their undergraduate education. Category D members should be viewed by the wider community as bringing a completely independent view to the AEC, and must not fit the requirements of any other category
Additional members to assist the AEC to function effectively – Institutions should appoint to the AEC a person responsible for the routine care of animals within the institution. Institutions may appoint additional members with skills and background of value to the AEC
If you are interested in joining our Animal Ethics Committee (AEC), please email animal.ethics@utas.edu.au.
Resources for existing AEC members can be found here.
If you have concerns or complaints about the conduct of a study, you can contact the Executive Officer of the University of Tasmania AEC at animal.ethics@utas.edu.au.
