Innovation Minister Senator Kim Carr today announced the establishment of an independent body to ensure that institutions are taking appropriate action in response to allegations of research misconduct.

“The Australian Government takes the issue of research misconduct very seriously,” Senator Carr said.

“With the establishment of the Australian Research Integrity Committee, Australians can be confident that research activities will meet moral and ethical standards. This is about ensuring that taxpayers get value for their investment in public sector research and protecting the Australian brand.

“The committee will assure researchers and the Australian public that institutions are taking appropriate action on serious allegations of research misconduct.

“While the committee will assess whether an institution has followed proper process in response to an allegation of research misconduct, it will not impinge on the institution’s autonomy—institutions will still be responsible for assessing if misconduct has occurred.

“The committee’s considerations will be in line with the framework set out in the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research, which guides institutions and researchers in responsible research practices and promotes integrity,” Senator Carr said.

The Australian Research Integrity Committee will be jointly administered by the Australian Research Council (ARC) and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

The ARC and NHMRC are seeking expressions of interest for membership of the Australian Research Integrity Committee.

To find out more about the committee or find out how to submit an expression of interest, visit www.arc.gov.au or www.nhmrc.gov.au.

Media contacts:  Aban Contractor, Minister's Office, 0457 989 842
                          Sheena Ireland, ARC, 0412 623 056