Animal ethics training
All people involved in the care and use of animals must understand their responsibilities and the requirements of the Australian Code for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes, 8th edition, 2013, (updated 2021). They must also be competent in the procedures they are to perform before commencing work, or must work under the direct supervision of a competent person.
Mandatory online training
UniSQ has developed an online Animal Care and Use Training module with relevance to the animal care and use activities of the University.
If you intend to use animals for scientific purposes, completion of the Animal Care and Use Training and quiz is required. A result of 80% or greater is required to pass. Training requires recompletion every three years. A copy of the completion certificate for all team members should be attached within the animal ethics application. This training requirement includes any external team members unless they can provide evidence of completion of a similar course.
This Animal Care and Use Training covers:
- an understanding of animal ethics and relevant legislation,
- the stakeholders involved,
- how the Animal Ethics Committee functions,
- the responsibilities of investigators,
- project planning,
- animal wellbeing and monitoring,
- reporting,
- how to manage unexpected adverse events, as well as
- how breaches and complaints are handled.
The completion of additional training (for example, in particular techniques or species) may be required before animals may be used.
Research ethics training (HDR students)
Seminars are also provided to HDR students through the Graduate Research School. This training includes the legal framework, relevant policy and procedures, and the process of seeking ethics approval at UniSQ.
External training
Staff and students may also complete one or more modules online through the free ANZCCART ComPass training site. This training may complement, but does not replace, UniSQ’s mandatory training requirements.
Training in particular procedures
People who care for and use animals must ensure that procedures are performed competently, and be competent for the procedure they perform, or be under the direct supervision of a person who is competent to perform the procedure. Training may be provided by relevant, experienced staff. The type of training and the person providing training will depend upon the species being used (ranging from domestic animals, through to wildlife) and the types of procedures that need to be mastered. This often involves training delivered by experts in specialised procedures and particular species within schools and centres.
Record keeping
It is the responsibility of the Principal Investigator to maintain an up-to-date record of training and competency for all members of the project team, including any students. Training and competency records for each animal user and all animal procedures must be maintained by the Principal Investigator and made available to the UniSQ AEC or an auditor upon request.
A UniSQ Training and competency assessment record template has been developed to assist research teams with record keeping. Teams may also develop their own record keeping methods, provided they meet Code and AEC requirements.