Independent external reviews, as required at least every 4 years under section six of the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes, 8th edition 2013 (updated 2021) are a core part of our service delivery. 

We take the angst out of the review process, our experience and friendly, informed communication, supports everyone involved. We bring an expert review panel and protocol to you, ensuring you meet your obligations under the code with ease. From the opening briefing to the close out meeting, we assist with templates and provide regular updates. 

The EthiQualia IER Panel completes an integrated assessment of implementation of the Australian code’s governing principles through targeted review of organisational procedures and expert evaluation of on-ground practices around the care, use and management of animals. 

Comparing the policy framework with available evidence of current activities, the Panel develops informed findings regarding the effectiveness of organisational resources, systems, training, compliance monitoring, and governance arrangements in managing risks to compliance and animal welfare.

Our approach goes beyond just examining procedures and processes; we actively engage with people across the organisation to foster outcomes that highlight both successful practices and areas needing further attention. We prioritise open, collaborative, impartial, and transparent communication to encourage continuous improvement. 

This informs the provision of a report tailored to the organisation’s needs to enable effective communication, including an executive summary suitable for publication.

Recommendations made are practical and achievable. By prioritising issues that significantly impact adherence to obligations within the Australian code, and effective risk management, we support short and long-term continuous improvement.

With EthiQualia you are in safe hands. Our professionalism, and experience will guide your team members throughout the review process. 

EthiQualia can assist with your internal compliance monitoring by providing post-approval monitoring (PAM). Our team of supportive experts collaborates with institutions, supporting AECs in their obligation to ensure that all activities adhere to the Australian Code.

Our PAM program is designed to provide clear evidence of compliance with approved protocols and responsibilities under the Australian code, identify potential issues, and offer corrective recommendations—all aimed at enhancing animal welfare and compliance.

Whether you are responding to recommendations of a regulatory inspection, review or audit, or seeking to enhance efficiency and governance arrangements, we provide consulting services in all aspects of your animal care and use program.

EthiQualia’s deep expertise provides organisations with unique insights that enable efficiency and significant progress, helping them to operate at—or even define new levels of—‘best practice’.

Our experience has demonstrated that without independent oversight and a ‘fresh set of eyes’, long-standing non-compliant practices within an organisation can go unnoticed, or without question.

Independent gap analysis and compliance management system evaluation serve to identify compliance risks, test existing practices, and reduce the potential for unnecessary impact to animal welfare and research outcomes, a serious event of non-compliance, or even a crisis.

Mandy is a member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (ANZCVS), Medicine and Management of Laboratory Animals, and Animal Welfare Chapters and has developed and implemented best practice institutional animal care programs. 

EthiQualia can support institutions seeking assurance that their program of veterinary care is fit for purpose and provide guidance and mentoring to institutional animal welfare and compliance officers.

EthiQualia delivers targeted training to AEC members, investigators, animal care teams and institutional governance representatives. 

The EthiQualia team has significant experience as members and advisors to AECs, animal welfare officers, and facility veterinarians. Mandy is a former veterinary (category A) member of five AECs and Deputy AEC Chair and has extensive experience in providing compliance advice and training. This familiarity with the ethical framework supporting animal care and use has resulted in the development of a practical approach, enabling efficiency in systems and compliant decisions.

EthiQualia’s AEC training empowers members to have an effective, logical voice to facilitate good decisions, supported by customised tools, enabling a high standard of animal care and use within the institution.

Register for our bi-monthly Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) webinars, specifically designed for AEC members and support teams. 

Aligned with our values of promoting excellence and Connecting to a Culture of Care, these free sessions aim to foster confidence and collaboration. Each 45-minute webinar focuses on a unique topic related to AEC operations or responsibilities, promoting excellence in ethical oversight. 

Whether you have years of experience or are new to the role, take this opportunity to expand your knowledge and contribute to the advancement of ethical practices in our field. Don't miss out on the chance to connect and learn!

Register your interest here.

2026 Topics and Dates

AEC Decisions - Part II
Friday 17th April 2-2.45pm AEST

AEC Decisions - Part III 
Friday 3rd July 2-2.45pm AEST