Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water Animal Ethics Committee
Expressions of Interest for Category A (veterinarian) and C (animal welfare) Member Appointment
BACKGROUND
All research and education activities involving live non-human vertebrates and cephalopods in NSW are controlled by legislation that aims to ensure that projects are conducted ethically and with full regard to the welfare of animals. The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) is responsible for reviewing, approving, and monitoring all DCCEEW staff's animal research and teaching activities.
The AEC oversees a range of projects that involve the capture and handling of wildlife (native and introduced) as well as those that use observational techniques (such as bird surveys, spotlighting or remotely operated cameras). The purpose of the research is usually related to improving our knowledge and management of native and introduced fauna in the landscape of NSW. Each committee member is required to assess these projects by balancing the potential benefits to humans, animals, and/or the environment with the potential impact on the well-being of the animals involved. DCCEEW 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 (category A), wildlife research (category B), animal welfare (category C), and independent members (category D) who represent the views of the broader community and a chairperson. Appointments to the DCCEEW AEC are for a three-year term with an option for a second three-year term.
We are currently seeking one Category A and one Category C member to join the AEC.
The criteria for Category A membership is:
a person with qualifications in veterinary science that are recognised for registration as a veterinary surgeon in Australia, and with experience relevant to the institution’s activities or the ability to acquire relevant knowledge.
The criteria for Category C membership 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.
A curriculum vitae (CV) is required to be submitted to the Panel, demonstrating the relevant independence.
MEETING SCHEDULE & WORKLOAD
Meeting dates are set on an annual basis. There are eight scheduled AEC meetings of the committee each year. An executive committee meeting may be held one week prior to an AEC meeting. It is important that members can commit to attending most meetings as a quorum is required for decisions to be enacted. AEC Meetings are held on Tuesdays commencing at 10:00 am online or occasionally at the government offices. Meetings usually conclude by 3:00 pm, but occasionally may take longer.
Additional meetings are occasionally held and travel to research locations in regional NSW is sometimes offered.
Occasionally it may be necessary to review material outside of normal meetings and an email response may be required at short notice. You will need access to a reliable internet service.
SITTING FEES
A meeting preparation and sitting fee of $440 (2 days) is paid for AEC meetings. For executive meetings, a sitting fee of $120 (half day) is paid.
For any meetings or inspections that require travel, a sitting fee of $220 is paid plus transport to and from meetings as well as flights, meals or accommodation costs.
APPOINTMENT PROCESS
Members of the public are invited to submit a short Expression of Interest and CV by email to the Senior Team Leader, Animal Research Ethics team (details below) by 8 March 2024. This is to demonstrate how you fulfil the requirements set out above.
All applications are subject to review and this review process may take several months. All applicants will be advised of the outcome once the review and appointment has been finalised.