Learn about our commitment to humane and ethical animal research at Griffith and our resources for making this possible.
Some activities conducted at Griffith require the use of live animals and we recognise the use of animals for teaching and research is fundamental to biology, medicine and science. Griffith is committed to the humane and justifiable use of animals for teaching and research. We recognise laboratory animals are sentient creatures and their use is a privilege that comes with moral and legal obligations for their humane care.
Understand the law
The Australian Code for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes and the Queensland Animal Care and Protection Act 2001 articulate the responsibilities of Griffith staff and students who use animals in research.
Animal ethics training
All people involved in the care and use of animals must complete our online training modules.
Animal ethics applications and projects
If you’re planning research or teaching that involves the use of animals, you’ll need prior ethical approval from our Animal Ethics Committee.
Bioscience resources facility
For more information about housing animals at Griffith University, please contact the Biosciences Resources Facility.
Animal Ethics Committee
Learn more about the key functions of our Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) and its constitution.
Ethical awards
Our annual 3Rs Award recognises individuals and groups at Griffith who’ve made a remarkable contribution to the field of the 3Rs and animal welfare at Griffith University.
The 3Rs are:
- Replacement of animals with alternative methods
- Reduction of the number of animals used
- Refinement of techniques to minimise the potential impact on animals.
External resources
Explore our list of helpful information regarding the ethics of animal use.
2025 Animal Ethics Committee meeting and submission dates
| Submission deadline | Meeting date |
|---|---|
| 17 January | 6 February |
| 21 February | 13 March |
| 28 March | 24 April |
| 23 May | 12 June |
| 27 June | 17 July |
| 1 August | 21 August |
| 5 September | 18 September |
| 3 October | 16 October |
| 24 October | 6 November |
| 14 November | 2 December |
External Review
Griffith University is committed to openness and transparency in animal research. Our most recent external review of animal ethics took place in 2021.