Background

All research and education activities involving live non-human vertebrates and cephalopods in NSW are controlled by legislation which aims to ensure that projects are conducted ethically and with full regard to the welfare of animals. The Department of Planning Industry and Environment (DPIE) Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) is responsible for reviewing, approving and monitoring all animal research and teaching activities undertaken by DPIE staff.

The DPIE AEC oversees a range of projects that involve the capture and handling of wildlife (native and introduced) as well as projects that use observational techniques (such as bird surveys, spotlighting or remotely operated cameras). The overarching purpose of DPIE research is to improve knowledge and management of native and introduced fauna in the landscape of NSW. Each AEC member is required to assess project applications by balancing the potential benefits to humans, animals, and the environment with the potential impact on the well-being of the animals involved. DPIE is not involved in medical or agricultural research involving animals.

Selection criteria for membership

The AEC is made up of members with expertise in veterinary medicine, wildlife research, animal welfare and lay members who represent the views of the broader community.

Membership criteria are set down by Section 2.2.4 of the Code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes (NHMRC 2013).

The criteria for an animal welfare representative (known as category C member) is:

A person with demonstrable commitment to, and established experience in, furthering the welfare of animals, who is not employed by or otherwise associated with the institution, and who is not currently involved in the care and use of animals for scientific purposes. Veterinarians with specific animal welfare interest and experience may meet the requirements of this category. While not representing an animal welfare organisation, the person should, where possible, be selected on the basis of active membership of, and endorsement by, such an organisation.

The ideal candidate should have some knowledge and/or experience in the welfare of Australian native wildlife.

Meeting schedule and workload

The DPIE AEC meets at least eight times each year. Meetings are usually held on Tuesdays commencing at 10:00 am pre-COVID at the government offices in Parramatta or, on occasion, at other locations but currently by teleconference. Meetings usually conclude by 3:00 pm. Members should be available to attend most of the scheduled meetings each year.

Members are expected to fully familiarise themselves with all project applications and other reading material before each meeting.

Occasionally, AEC business may need to be addressed outside of scheduled meetings so an email response or telephone conference may be required at short notice.

Travel to inspect research sites and animal holding facilities throughout NSW is sometimes offered.

Sitting fees

A sitting fee of $220 is paid plus transport costs to and from meetings.

Appointment process

Appointments to the DPIE AEC are made by the DPIE Biodiversity, Conservation and Science Deputy Secretary with the approval of the NSW Animal Research Review Panel.

Appointment to the DPIE AEC will be for a three-year term from the date of appointment. A second three-year term may be offered.

For more information see www.animalethics.org.au

For more information on DPIE's Environment, Energy & Science group see www.environment.nsw.gov.au.

For more information about this vacancy or to submit an application, email [email protected] using the subject line: Animal Ethics Committee Category C - Animal Welfare - Member enquiry via EthicalJobs.