Human research ethics committees (HRECs) do ethical reviews. When you apply for ethics approval, a HREC will assess your project against the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) guidelines.
You'll need to be able to show that:
We recommend you contact our team before you apply for ethics approval. They can talk you through the application process and answer any questions you may have.
We don't have our own HREC at Mackay Hospital and Health Service.
You can apply for ethics review and approval from any NHMRC certified HREC. There’s a list on the National Health and Medical Research Council website.
There may be costs involved. You'll need to check with the HREC.
Low-risk projects such as clinical audits or quality assurance activities may not need full ethics review, or they may be exempt. If you aren't sure which pathway is right for your project, contact our research governance officer for advice.
Design your research protocol first. Your HREC may have a template that you can use as a guide.
Your research protocol should include:
You’ll need to submit documents with your application. Your HREC may have a checklist to help you keep track of the documents you need for your application.
The supporting documents you need will depend on your project, but might include:
If your research involves Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, you’ll also need to provide letters of support and evidence of community consultation.
Read more about ethical guidelines for research involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on the National Health and Medical Research Council website.
Apply through the ERM.
Learn more about how to use the ERM on the Queensland Health website.
After you apply for an ethics review in the ERM, you can submit your SSA application form and apply for governance authorisation.
If you have any questions about ethical reviews email miri-rsu@health.qld.gov.au.