We undertake research and teaching projects that involve the scientific use of animals.
These activities range from:
- observational studies of native wildlife for conservation purposes
- interventional studies on mice, rats, sheep, pigs, cattle and horses aimed at understanding, alleviating and resolving human and animal diseases
- education in areas such as ecology, environmental science, physiology and pharmacology.
Australian code compliance
All research and teaching activities at QUT that use animals for scientific purposes are subject to rigorous review and approval by the University Animal Ethics Committee (UAEC) before they commence, to ensure compliance with the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes and the Animal Care and Protection Act.
The UAEC ensures that any animal use is justified, and that the potential benefits outweigh any potential harm to the animals.
The UAEC also conducts annual inspections of the animal holding facilities, and QUT’s Animal Welfare and Ethics Coordinator (a veterinarian) provides oversight to ensure the wellbeing of all animals used at the university is maintained.
See the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes
Principles
Animals are inherently important. Demonstrating respect for animals is paramount in all areas of their care and use, as they have the capacity to feel pain.
The principles of the 3Rs are considered in all project proposals and in annual progress reports to the UAEC, ensuring high ethical standards and scientific validity.
We are committed to improving the quality and reproducibility of scientific outcomes by promoting the highest standards of animal welfare.
Replacement
with non-animal models
Reduction
in the animals used
Refinement
to minimise any harm to animals
Animal openness
QUT supports openness and transparency about its animal use in research and teaching. Additional information can be found in the 2021 independent external review of our compliance with the code.
Download the QUT animal ethics external review report (PDF file, 1.9 MB)
Contact us
Contact us for more information about how we use animals in research and education at QUT.