Revised policy on use of generative artificial intelligence in grant applications and peer review
The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) has revised its Policy on Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Grant Applications and Peer Review.
The policy recognises that generative artificial intelligence tools can help researchers and peer reviewers with practical tasks such as drafting, summarising, and improving clarity, while keeping expert judgement and decisions in human hands. It also outlines safeguards to protect confidentiality, privacy, and trust in the funding process.
Under the policy, applicants may use generative artificial intelligence as a support tool when preparing grant applications, with responsibility for accuracy and integrity remaining with the applicant. Peer reviewers may use these tools to refine the wording of their review comments, such as improving clarity and grammar, but peer reviewers must rely on their own expertise when evaluating and scoring applications.
The policy sets clear expectations for careful information handling, including using only the minimum information needed and treating content entered into such tools as potentially public. It also emphasises the need for human review of any generated output, checks for accuracy and bias, and training to support responsible use.
NHMRC will continue to monitor developments in this rapidly evolving area and update the policy when required.
This revised policy applies to all peer review conducted for NHMRC MREA grant schemes from 28 April 2026.
For questions about this revised policy please contact: research.policy@nhmrc.gov.au.