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For case studies, fact sheets, guidance, policies, and video see our Resources.

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Best practice methodology in the use of animals for scientific purposes

This document provides advice on the conduct of animal-based studies to ensure that the studies are rigorous, transparent and reproducible and lead to useful outcomes. It is in line with the Australian Code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes, 8th edition (2013), which is adopted into legislation across Australia. 

  • Guideline
  • Current

Principles and guidelines for the care and use of non-human primates for scientific purposes

This document provides principles and best practice guidance for the care and use of non-human primates for scientific purposes. The document is intended for use by those involved in the care and use of non-human primates for scientific purposes, including institutional animal ethics committees, investigators and animal carers.

  • Guideline
  • Current

A guide to the care and use of Australian native mammals in research and teaching

This guide supports the implementation of the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes 8th edition (2013) by providing advice about how the specific and unique needs of Australian native mammals can be met when these animals are used for scientific purposes. 

It provides information for investigators, institutions, animal ethics committees and all those involved in the care and use of Australian native mammals for scientific purposes.

Notice: This publication is more than 5 years old and may no longer reflect current evidence or best practice.

  • Guideline
  • More than 5 years old

Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes

The purpose of the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes (the 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.

The Code is adopted into legislation in all Australian states and territories. It is endorsed by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Australian Research Council, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation and Universities Australia. Compliance with the Code is a prerequisite for receipt of NHMRC funding.

A web version of the Code is provided below.

A PDF version of the Code, and guidance documents about implementation of Section 7: Cosmetic testing, are available under 'Downloads'

  • Guideline
  • Under review

Guidelines to promote the wellbeing of animals used for scientific purposes

The Guidelines to promote the wellbeing of animals used for scientific purposes: The assessment and alleviation of pain and distress in research animals (2008) provide guidance on how to support and safeguard the wellbeing of animals used for scientific purposes.

Notice: This publication is more than five years old and may no longer reflect current evidence or best practice.

  • Guideline
  • More than 5 years old