Deakin University Animal Ethics Committee (AEC)
Deakin University has two Animal Ethics Committee's as follows:
- Animal Ethics Committee Geelong (AECG)
- Animal Ethics Committee Burwood (AECB)
Each Committee will function independently, conducting business separately and in accordance with the responsibilities under Section 2 of the Code. The AEC's Term of Reference, composition, and operating procedures are determined by Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the Code.
The legislative requirements specify that an Animal Ethics Committee must verify that the use of the animals adhere to the principles and guidelines described in the Code. The AEC considers applications for compliance with legislative requirements.
The purpose of the Code is to ensure the ethical use and humane care of animals used for scientific purposes. The Code describes the responsibilities of investigators, teachers and institutions using animals to:
- Ensure that the use of animals is justified, taking into consideration the scientific or educational benefit and the potential effects on the welfare of the animals
- Ensure that the welfare of animals is always considered
- Promote the development and use of techniques which replace animal use in scientific and teaching activities wherever possible. The Code specifies that techniques that totally or partially replace the use of animals for scientific purposes must be sought and used wherever possible
- Minimise the number of animals required to achieve the project objectives
- Avoid pain or distress for each animal used in scientific and teaching activities
In accordance with the Code, the Deakin University AEC must composed of a Chair, Veterinarian (Category A), Research Scientist (Category B), Animal Welfare Representative (Category C) Independent Lay member (Category D) and a Secretary.
