Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is ARIES used for?

• To submit Biomedical and Wildlife Research Experimental Proposals
• To submit Animal Ethics Annual Reviews
• To enter animal annual use data
• To apply for approval for the production of a new strain or hybrid of a genetically modified animal
• To submit the Study Completion/Discontinuation Report

Q: How do I apply for a New Proposal?

A: Animal Ethics protocol applications are now entered directly into the ARIES Research Management System. On-line data entry replaces several existing forms. User Support Information is available to assist with creating or updating a protocol. To start your ethics protocol, please login to ARIES. User support for the online system is provided by Pauline Pilcher.

Q: What do I need to do once I have submitted my Proposal in ARIES?

A: Applications submitted in ARIES must be printed as a hard copy, and require original signatures. All proposals and amendment applications must be received by the Animal Ethics Officer by the last day of the previous month. The AEEC meets on the 3rd Tuesday of every month except December.

Q: What if I need to make an amendments?

A: Notice of any proposed changes or variations to an approved Program during the duration of that Program must be approved by the AEEC. Such proposed changes might be for example, the addition of a technique not included in the original proposal. Any changes to animal numbers must be included. Major changes in direction of research will require a new proposal. For guidance as to whether an amendment or new proposal is relevant please email the AEEC Executive Officer, Dr Simon Bain outlining proposed changes.

Q: What is an Annual Review?

A: The Chief Investigator is required to report on the progress of the research program each year on the anniversary of the approval date. Please login to ARIES to complete and submitt your report.

Q: What are my responsibilities with Animal Use Data?

A: The Chief Investigator is required to record the total number of animals used for each calendar year in the ARIES annual review form. This information is reported to various statutory bodies.

Q: How do I register a new strain or hybird of a genetically modified animal?

A: When it is discovered, please complete the following report.

Application for a new strain or hybrid or a genetically modified animal

Q: What is a Study Completion/Discontinuation Report?

A: The Code requires that for projects that have been completed or discontinued, a report should be submitted to the AEEC as soon as practicable. Please complete this report in ARIES upon completion or discontinuation of a project. Please note, if an approved study has not commenced Q5 of this report should also be completed.

Q: How do I report Animal welfare concerns?

A: Animal Welfare Concerns May Include:

• Departures from the humane and ethical treatment of animals in animal holding rooms, production rooms or, where appropriate, the laboratory.
  
• Breaches of the Australian Code of Practice for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes.
  

Please report animal welfare concerns to the Animal Experimentation Ethics Committee's Executive Officer.

Dr Simon Bain
Executive Officer, Animal Experimentation Ethics Committe
E: Simon Bain
T:+61 2 6125 0422

Please be assured that concerns will be treated confidentially and sympathetically.  Any such concerns will be discussed at a full meeting of the Animal Experimentation Ethics Committee.  The latter includes animal welfare and community representatives.