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  • ANZCCART Conference

    2024 ANZCCART Conference If you would like to know more on the latest developments on animal welfare and meet people that have a passion for working with animals, this is an opportunity for you. ANZCCART hosts conferences annually where you get to hear great presentations, participate in workshops, hear different view points on the ethics of use of animals, and build networks with those interested in the many aspects of animal care. For more information on the upcoming conference or if you would like to view Proceedings of previous conferences please see below The 2024 ANZCCART Conference will be held in Christchurch from 10-12 September, with a theme around the use of animals in education, teaching and training. Registration is now open You can register for ANZCCART 2024 here: https://anzccart2024.eventbrite.co.nz Conference programme You can download the conference programme below: ROY 188 ANZCCART A5 Conference programme 24 3.2_final_digital .pdf Download PDF • 5.45MB Registrations Registration Type Price (NZD) On-line only participation registration $100 (incl. GST) Early bird registration Late May to 22 July 2024, 5:00pm $595 (incl. GST) Full registration 23 July to 27 August 2024 $660 (incl. GST) Late registration After 27 August 2024 $720 (incl. GST) Delegate 1-day registration $330 (incl. GST) Additional places — Icebreaker $104 (incl. GST) Additional places — Conference dinner $186 (incl. GST) Concession registration Undergraduate/Postgraduate students, Technicians/Research assistants, External members of Animal Ethics Committees (AEC) 20% discount Cam Reid Oration The Cam Reid Oration is an initiative introduced by the ANZCCART New Zealand Board in 1995 in recognition of the late Dr Cam Reid's pioneering role in the evaluation and adoption of standards of ethical conduct for animal experimentation in New Zealand. It is awarded at the ANZCCART (NZ) Conference every three years. Previous Cam Reid Orators: 1995: Mr Chris Puplick, former Senator, Australian Parliament 1997: Mr Andrew McCaw, Office of Ombudsmen, Wellington 1999: Dr Jean Fleming, University of Otago 2001: Mr Gary Reese, former Director of Save Animals from Exploitation, Auckland 2003: Professor Jane Harding, Liggins Institute in Auckland 2005: Professor Don Evans, University of Otago 2008: Dr Mark Fisher, Kotare Bioethics Ltd, Hastings 2011: Professor Laura Bennet, University of Auckland 2014: Dr Siouxsie Wiles, University of Auckland 2017: Dr Helena Hogberg, Johns Hopkins University 2021: Professor Craig Johnson, Massey University Archive of ANZCCART Conference proceedings: 2022 ANZCCART Conference - Melbourne 26-28 July (PDF 3.4MB, 99 pages) 2021 ANZCCART Conference – Openness in Animal Research (PDF 7.2MB, 160 pages) Exploring the benefits and risks of openness in regards to the use of animals in Australian and New Zealand research. View the conference proceedings View the conference presentations The 2021 conference (delayed from 2020) looked at ‘openness’ in animal research and teaching. Public confidence in animal research hinges on the scientific community engaging in the evolving conversation about how and why animals are used. Being open about these matters is a worthwhile endeavour, and to be encouraged. To gain a broader perspective on how openness looks in practise, the conference examined overseas examples, both success stories and failures, and learn from different cultural viewpoints. 2019 ANZCCART Conference – Breaking Down Laboratory Walls (PDF 4.1MB, 138 pages) 2018 ANZCCART Conference – Keeping it Relevant (PDF, 198 pages) 2017 ANZCCART Conference – Maintaining social license in a changing world (PDF) Part 1 , Part 2 The theme of the conference was maintaining social licence in a changing world. The conference covered a wide range of topics from addressing social license in different contexts, to advances in replacement, reduction and refinement technologies, lessons from animal ethics committee front lines, and animal handling. 2016 ANZCCART Conference – Man or Mouse (PDF, 3.5 MB, 109 pages) 2015 ANZCCART Conference – Animal ethics – the gold standard 2014 ANZCCART Conference – Mixing it up – ethics, science, and adventure tourism (PDF 1.7MB, 106 pages) The use of animals for research and teaching can be awkward. Necessary, justifiable, ethical, well managed, well regulated without doubt. But still it can be awkward. It raises awkward questions. The conference sought to provide good answers to those questions. 2013 ANZCCART Conference – Can we do better? (PDF, 3.96 MB, 162 pages) 2012 ANZCCART Conference – Thinking Outside the Cage: A different point of view (PDF, 2 MB, 128 pages) 2011 ANZCCART Conference – Science with feeling: animals and people (ANZCCART website) The eclectic mix of contributions in these proceedings recognise the complex interdependence between animals and people, an inextricable connection woven with feelings. 2010 ANNZART Conference – Ethics in a changing environment (PDF) 2009 ANZCCART Conference – AEC best practice (PDF, 3.2 MB, 126 pages) 2008 ANZCCART Conference – Blue Sky to deep water: the reality and the promise (ANZCCART website) The contributions to the 2008 conference "Blue sky to deep water: the reality and the promise" held in Auckland, New Zealand, reflect the conference presentations dealing with science, values and the reality of understanding “backward running rats” and “cunning fighting fish”. 2007 ANZCCART Conference – Getting it Right (PDF, 1 MB, 120 pages) 2006 ANZCCART Conference – Responsibilities – The 4th R (PDF, 2.9 MB, 175 pages) 2005 ANZCCART Conference – Animal Ethics Committees and animal use in a monitored environment: is the ethics real, imagined or necessary? (PDF, 2.6 MB, 98 pages) The conference focused on what Animal Ethics Committees do in regulating and monitoring the use of animals in research and teaching, and the public’s and scientists’ expectations of the process. 2004 ANZCCART Conference – Animal Ethics: New Frontiers, New Opportunities (PDF, 1 MB, 44 pages) 2003 ANZCCART Conference - Lifting the veil: finding common ground 2003 - ANZCCART .pdf Download PDF • 12.55MB The theme of this ANZCCART Conference is "Lifting the veil: finding common ground". This theme was borne out of a perceived need to respond in a positive way to concerns that have been expressed in New Zealand regarding secrecy in the regulatory processes governing animal research. 2003 ANZCCART Workshop - Monitoring Animal Welfare and Promoting Refinement (PDF) 2002 ANZCCART Conference – Animal welfare and Ethics Committees. Where are the goalposts now? (PDF, 2.2 MB, 94 pages) 2001 ANZCCART Conference – Learning, animals and the environment: Changing the face of the future (ANZCCART website) 2001 ANZCCART .pdf Download PDF • 8.97MB Exploring the relationships between ourselves, animals, and the environment was the theme of the conference jointly organised by ANZCCART and the National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee (NAEAC). Issues to be addressed included the interdependence and interconnectedness of all life, the images of science and scientists, relevant legislation, dealing with new technology, fish research, and what could and should statistics or the popular media tell us. 1999 AWAC/ANZCCART Conference - Innovation, ethics, and animal welfare: public confidence in science and agriculture 1999_ANZCCART .pdf Download PDF • 11.50MB The conference placed the welfare of animals squarely in the context of the challenges posed by changing patterns ofinternational trade, scientific and technological innovation, and societal attitudes. A central issue was that of the relationship between the wider community-including producers and consumers of livestock products-and scientists. 1997 ANZCCART/NAEAC Conference - Ethical approaches to animal-based sceince 1997_ANZCCART .pdf Download PDF • 16.20MB Ethical approaches to animal-based science emphasises value systems. Value systems are of importance to all of those concerned with animalbased science, whether as proponents or opponents of it. 1995 ANZCCART Conference - Farm animals in Biomedical and Agricultural Research 1995_ANZCCART .pdf Download PDF • 8.98MB This was the sixth conference held by ANZCCART and the second in New Zealand. Its theme moved from the narrower area of traditional laboratory animals to encompass the much wider field of farm animals in biomedical and agricultural research. 1994 ANZCCART Conference - Animal welfare in the twenty-first century: ethical, educational and scientific challenges 1994_ANZCCART .pdf Download PDF • 10.91MB The conference considered what directions animal welfare thinking might take in the future, the implications of those directions for human uses of animals in education and science, and the initiatives we would like to see taken to safeguard the welfare of the animals used in the educational and scientific arenas.

  • Media

    Information for New Zealand Media This page provides information on recent press releases, an image database, and web resources related to the use of animals in research, testing or teaching. Press releases 10th September 2024: New animal ethics resources include Māori knowledge 17 May 2024: A good step-up in Three Rs reporting and other positive trends: 2022 New Zealand Animal Research, Testing and Teaching Statistics 8 March 2024: ANZCCART New Zealand releases second annual report on Openness Agreement for animal research and teaching 13 November 2023: New Study Reveals New Zealanders' Views on Animal Use in Scientific Research and Teaching 21 August 2023: A step forward in openness in animal research and teaching but more progress needed in Three Rs reporting: New Zealand's Animal Research Statistics of 2021 30 March 2023: ANZCCART releases first report on Openness Agreement in Animal Research and Teaching 30 May 2022: Openness on use of animals in research testing and teaching statistics 27 July 2021: Science organisations pledge openness in animal research and teaching in New Zealand 1 September 2017: New resources highlight innovative ways to replace, reduce and refine the use of animals in research Submissions 21 May 2024: Submission to the Science System Advisory Group - First Phase Pat_Cragg_ANZCCART NZ_Phase1 .pdf Download PDF • 201KB Image database for the use of animals in research, testing or teaching An image database featuring copyright free images of animals suitable for use in stories on animal use in testing, teaching and research is available through the Understanding Animal Use website (UK based). This website also contains a number of resources on the use of animals in research. Resources Understanding Animal Research (UK website) Animal Welfare Act 1999 (Parliamentary Council Office website) Guide to the Animal Welfare Act (Ministry for Primary Industries website) The National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee (NAEAC) website The National Animal Welfare Committee (NAWAC) website SPCA New Zealand Alt web (resource database hosted by Johns Hopkins University) Annual Report (PDF, 1.5 MB, 46 pages)

  • Animal Ethics in New Zealand Schools

    Applying for Animal Ethics Approval This page contains information about why you need to apply for ethics approval and how you can apply. When do you need to consider applying for animal ethics approval? You need to consider applying for animal ethics approval when using animals in teaching or in an investigation or experience when the animal is being ‘manipulated’. This means that you are changing the animal’s normal needs, like what it eats and drinks, where it lives/sleeps or things it does (like its type of toys) in some way. This type of change (manipulation) is when ethics approval is needed and is required under New Zealand’s law called the Animal Welfare Act. Ethics approval means that a special group of people, such as science teachers and animal welfare experts have reviewed the way that your scientific experiment or investigation with animal(s) is being carried out. When they review it, they check that what is planned will not harm the animal(s) and its good health is maintained. If this group thinks that what is planned will not harm the animal(s), they will grant ethics approval. Who might need to apply for animal ethics approval? Any teacher and/or science technician using or caring for animals in a learning or class situation should check with the New Zealand Schools Animal Ethics Committee if they need approval. Any student carrying out an investigation or experiment that involves animals should check if they need approval. The Application Process If you do need to apply for animal ethics approval for a teaching activity or for your science fair project, you need to complete a form and submit it to an Animal Ethics Committee (AEC). The New Zealand Association for Science Education has their own AEC for teachers, science technicians and students who can approve your application. For more information, visit the New Zealand Schools Animal Ethics website . In general, the AEC wants to ensure that the animals that you use will be well treated and subjected to the minimal amount of harm or disruption. All manipulations must be carried out under the umbrella of the animal welfare principles of the Three Rs (replacement, reduction and refinement). When you are writing your animal ethics application, make sure you outline the benefits of carrying out the experiment or investigation and also fully consider the harm to the animal(s). The AEC will make a risk-benefit assessment. This means that if the risk of harm to the animals high (for example, the experiment is quite invasive) then the benefits must also be high (for example, the potential of a new medicine). However, if the risk is low (for example, playing music to your fish) then the potential benefit does not need to be very high (for example, it might help you and your class better understand how well fish hear). You also need to meet the normal husbandry requirements for the animal including providing food, shelter, warmth, safety and room to behave normally. Lastly, you need to show that you have considered the Three Rs animal welfare principles in the design of your experiment or investigation. Links: Ethical guidelines for school students (ANZCCART resource) (PDF, 108 kb, 1 page) NZ Association of Science Educators (NZASE) website on animal ethics

  • Animal Welfare Principles

    The Three Rs Animal Welfare Principles for research, testing and teaching The Three Rs — replacement, reduction and refinement — were first introduced by the authors Russell and Burch in their 1959 book, The Principles of Humane Experimental Technique (available through the Johns Hopkins Alt Web website ). Since then these ideas have become fundamental principles in the area of animal welfare for research, testing and teaching. Replacement Where possible an alternative to using animals must be used. This could include a computer model or cell culture (where animal or human cells are grown in a laboratory). We aim to help researchers, teachers and ethics committees know about and understand the alternatives to animal use. We promote recent developments in this area through our newsletters and conferences. Reduction The minimum number of animals must be used to gain good experimental results. This means that experiments must be well designed and that as many experimental variables as possible are controlled (i.e., that you only change one thing in your experimental group as compared to your control group). This means that the research or test will provide quality data which can withstand statistical analysis. ANZCCART promotes the principle of Reduction through the development of training programmes for people using animals, by promoting sharing of study design across Animal Ethics Committees and through information provided in our newsletters and conferences. Refinement The animals should not suffer. At all times the health and wellbeing of animals should be a priority. As much as possible the animal should be able to live normally, free from any pain and suffering, throughout the research, teaching or testing process. ANZCCART works alongside the government, research institutions and Animal Ethics Committees to promote Refinement. We present regular updates on topics such as anaesthesia in research animals through our publications and conferences. We work alongside schools and other teaching institutions to promote awareness of animal research and encourage the use of good animal husbandry practices in all instances where animals are used for research or teaching. Booklets outlining examples of the application of these principles can be found here . Resource links Download 3Rs Poster (ANZCCART resource) (PDF, 6.7 MB, 1 page) Alt web (resource database hosted by Johns Hopkins University)

  • Animal Ethics Commitee

    Animal Ethics Committees The following resources will assist Animal Ethics Committee members in undertaking their roles in relation to animal ethics applications and animal welfare. ComPass Animal Welfare Training This free online course covers the Australian Code and NZ Guide and welfare issues relating to animal use in research and teaching. For the course link and more information . Information on research study design Appropriate research study design is an important part of reducing the numbers of animals used in research and testing. We strongly recommend the PREPARE and ARRIVE guidelines for the designing and reporting of animal experiments involving the use of animals. The guidelines are intended to improve the planning and reporting of research using animals – maximising information published and minimising unnecessary studies. PREPARE guidelines for planning animal experiments can be found here . ARRIVE guidelines for reporting animal experiments can be found here . The ARRIVE reporting guidelines have been endorsed by over 1,000 scientific journals including nature, and the journals of the Royal Society Te Apārangi. A 3-minute video about the PREPARE guidelines can be found here . Resource links for New Zealand Animal Ethics Committee Members The following resources are available for New Zealand Animal Ethics Committee Members: The National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee (NAEAC) website The National Animal Welfare Committee (NAWAC) website Animal welfare in NZ (Ministry for Primary Industries website) ANZCCART Newsletter Guide to the Animal Welfare Act (Ministry for Primary Industries website)

  • About Us

    About Us ANZCCART (Australian and New Zealand Council for the Care of Animals in Research and Teaching) is two independent organisations in each of Australia and New Zealand committed to providing leadership in addressing ethical, social, cultural and scientific issues relating to the use and welfare of animals in research and teaching. We have a shared Vision, Mission and Role in society. ANZCCART’s VISION To be the leading source of information and advice concerning the ethical, social, cultural and scientific use of animals in research and teaching. MISSION STATEMENT ANZCCART’s corporate mission and objectives are to promote: Informed open discussion and debate within the community when considering ethical, social, cultural and scientific issues relating to the use of animals in research and teaching, by providing a neutral forum. Excellence in the use and welfare of animals supplied for or used in research and teaching. Responsible scientific use of animals. The 3Rs principle of Replacement, Reduction and Refinement as they apply to the use of animals for scientific purposes. Strategic partnerships to contribute to the education and training of scientists, students , animal care staff, members of Animal Ethics Committees, and the broader community. ANZCCART’s ROLE ANZCCART seeks to achieve these objectives, first by providing an ongoing focus to the social, ethical, cultural and scientific issues involved, second by providing a forum for discussion of these issues and third by facilitating access to relevant specialist advice and resources. Further, through its publications and activities ANZCCART is a source of information for the general public about how animals are used in research and teaching in Australia and New Zealand. ANZCCART New Zealand Established as a standing committee of the Royal Society Te Apārangi, the Board of ANZCCART New Zealand comprises representatives from the researc h, animal welfare, animal ethics and education communities. ANZCCART New Zealand is an advisory organisation that provides guidance and information to a wide range of stakeholders, including Animal Ethics Committees (AEC), scientists, teachers, regulatory authorities, granting agencies, government, animal welfare organisations , the media, and the general public. ANZCCART New Zealand promotes and supports the commitment to the principles embodied in the New Zealand legislation regulating the use of animals in research, testing and teaching in New Zealand ( Animal Welfare Act 1999, Part 6 ). AIMS Our primary aims are to: Promote open discussions around the social license for, ethical and cultural considerations related to, and scientific validity of the use of animals in research and teaching. A pillar of this is the ANZCCART Openness Agreement on Animal Use in Research and Teaching. Encourage the highest standards of care, consideration and responsible use of animals for research and teaching purposes. . Act as a focal point for information and advice concerning the ethical and scientific use of animals in research and teaching. Advocate for the "Three Rs" – replacement, reduction and refinement of animals in research and teaching – as a guiding principle. Identify, enable, and enhance strategic partnerships that develop capacity by contributing to and supporting the education and training of scientists, students, and the broader community. Support the development and inclusion of mātauranga Māori in relation to the care and use of animals in research and teaching, and alignment of policy and practice with the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. VALUES In pursuing our aims, we are guided by the following values: Rigour: We apply rigorous standards to our discussions and recommendations, ensuring that they are based on the best available evidence and informed by the perspectives of all relevant stakeholders. Openness: We are committed to transparency and openness in our processes, fostering an environment where challenging and informed debate can take place. Respo nsiveness: We aim to respond effectively to emerging ethical, social, cultural, scientific issues and developments relating to the use and welfare of animals in research and teaching. Inclusiveness: We actively engage with diverse stakeholders, including the research, animal welfare, and education communities, to ensure that our work is comprehensive and well-rounded. Collaboration: We work collaboratively with various organisations , i nstitutions, and individuals to achieve our objectives and contribute to a more responsible and compassionate future for both animals and humans. Partnership: We support and affirm the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, including the bicultural partnership it establishes between tangata Tiriti and tangata whenua, in all our aims and work. ANZCCART NZ Board Terms of Reference 2022 .pdf Download PDF • 234KB 2023 ANZCCART NZ Annual Report .pdf Download PDF • 385KB Our People New Zealand Board Members: Emeritus Professor Pat Cragg (Chair), retired, formerly University of Otago (2022-2024) Chair of the ANZCCART New Zealand Board since April 2020. Pat is a physiologist, and from undergraduate training, a zoologist; her research area covered cardiorespiratory function and control in health and disease; her breadth of teaching is typified as a co-editor of a long-standing physiology textbook. Prior to retirement in May 2018, she held appointments at the University of Otago, for instance as Head of Department of Physiology, Associate Dean Academic Health Sciences and Acting Dean of School of Biomedical Sciences. Pat was on the University's Animal Ethics Committee for 27 years and on the ANZCCART New Zealand Board for 18 years, with four years as Deputy Chair, as well as seven years as the NZ representative on the ANZCCART Australian Board. For many years Pat was Secretary of the Physiological Society of NZ and Chair of the Scientific Committee of the Otago Medical Research Foundation (OMRF). she now Chairs the OMRF Council. From mid-April 2019 to the end of January 2022, she returned from retirement to be the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic at the University of Otago. Dr Arnja Dale (Deputy Chair), Chief Scientific Officer, Royal New Zealand SPCA (2022-2024) Arnja has over 20 years working in the field of animal welfare science in New Zealand and overseas. Arnja is the Chief Scientific Officer at SPCA New Zealand. Prior to joining SPCA, Arnja was a Senior Lecturer in Animal Welfare Science, Ethics and Law, leading numerous research projects, and also led the animal welfare investigations training programme at Unitec. She is a current member of the ANZCCART NZ, the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) and the National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee (NAEAC). Arnja is passionate about animal welfare science and changing the hearts and minds of the next generation through evidence-based education initiatives. Arnja lives in Auckland with her husband, 3 children, and her dog and cat. Professor Ngaio Beausoleil, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University (2023) Ngaio is Professor of Animal Welfare Science and Co-Director of the Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, NZ. She has been active in research, teaching and scholarship in relevant areas of animal physiology, behaviour and welfare science for 20 years. Her research employs behavioural and physiological methods to investigate various aspects of animal welfare in both domestic and wild animal species. A key strength is her systematic, science-based approach to evaluating animal welfare impacts and she has been closely involved in the evolution of the Five Domains Model for more than a decade. Ngaio provides scientific support, advice and research to governments, various animal industries and veterinary professional bodies in New Zealand and around the world. As well as being a member of ANZCCART, she is Chair of the New Zealand Veterinary Journal editorial board, an independent scientific expert on the Wellington Zoo Animal Welfare Committee and Massey liaison to the UK Universities Federation for Animal Welfare. She gets a real buzz out of working with postgraduate research students. Life outside of work includes children, horses and downhill mountain biking. Dr Sally Birdsall, Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Education, University of Auckland (2022-2024) Sally Birdsall works at the Faculty of Education and Social Work in the University of Auckland Waipapa Taumata Rau. She teaches and carries out research in science and sustainability education with a focus on pedagogy – the theories, approaches and strategies that can be used to teach and learn effectively. In her work with ANZCCART New Zealand, she has led the development of two resources for secondary students where they can learn about the way scientists work with animals to produce scientific knowledge and think critically about the interconnectedness of science and society. Sally is currently working on another project that aims to produce a resource to help students to explore Māori principles in relation to animal ethics. With Professor Georgina Tuari Stewart (Ngāti Kura, Ngāpuhi-nui-tonu, Pare Hauraki), she is working with the Science Learning Hub on material that primary and secondary students in both English-medium and kura will be able to use to deepen their understanding of mātauranga Māori and Western science perspectives about animals. Outside of work, Sally spends time with her grandchildren and working on environmental restoration projects, both in the reserve next to her house and in the community. Vanessa Borman, Animal Ethics Coordinator, AgResearch (2023-2025) I have an MSc in Toxicology and experience in laboratory animal research, science administration and animal ethics. My inspiration is a love of science, animals and working with people. My current role is AgResearch Animal Ethics Coordinator which has provided the opportunity to travel and meet interesting people doing amazing things. I bring energy and action with a unique perspective on science and ethics. Associate Professor Justin Dean, Department of Physiology, University of Auckland (2021-2023) I study brain development, how it can be affected by premature birth, and ways to try to prevent or restore deficits in brain development. I was always fascinated by science, particularly the brain. I love the intellectual freedom associated with running a research laboratory and the training and teaching of younger scientists. After my PhD, my wife and I lived in Sweden and the USA as part of my postdoctoral training, and had children in those countries. Another highlight was the opportunity to return to NZ with family to start faculty research and teaching position at the University of Auckland. I am involved in coaching kids sports (cricket, netball, rugby), and also enjoy surfing, running, and cooking. Dr Mike King, Senior Lecturer, Bioethics Centre, University of Otago (2022-2024) I’m Head of Department at the Te Pokapū Matatika Koiora the Bioethics Centre, within the Dunedin School of Medicine and the Division of Health Sciences at the University of Otago. Bioethics Centre staff and students research, teach and learn about of the rights and wrongs (that is to say, the ethics) of healthcare and the biosciences. A lot of my work focuses on the ethics of animal use in research. I used to do animal research, which was the beginning of my path to my present career in bioethics. I come from the small town of Te Puke in the North Island of New Zealand. It has a sign saying it’s the kiwifruit capital of the world and has an enormous slice of kiwifruit on display to back it up. Mr Tipene Merritt, Kaiārahi Rangahau Māori, University of Canterbury (2023-2025) I am the key advisor of Ko Aotearoa Tēnei (Wai 262) - Māori interests in research concerning native flora and fauna; have Governance role of an Australian Co-operative Research Centre, Future Farm Industries; and develop mutually beneficial research relationships between Māori communities and Universities. I am looking to add a Māori viewpoint and a research management perspective to the social, ethical and scientific use of animals in research and teaching. I am completing a PhD on the interface between Mātauranga Māori and the Intellectual Property Rights system. Further to this I am an active member in hapū/iwi affairs and I also practice yoga. Stacey Parbhu, Animal Welfare Science Manager, Ministry for Primary Industries Stacey is currently leading the Animal Welfare Science team at MPI. As part of this role, she works alongside the National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee (NAEAC) and a team of technical and science advisors to ensure good governance to support RTT activities across New Zealand. She has been active in the care of companion animals, research animal husbandry, animal project management and animal facility management in a variety of positions since 2007, including AgResearch and Massey University. In 2017, Stacey moved to Te Herenga Waka | Victoria University in Wellington, to operate their brand-new small animal facility, eventually becoming the facility manager. In 2024 Stacey finalised her master’s thesis which utilised a mouse IVF model, providing her a greater understanding of the challenges and complexities many organisations will encounter with animal replacement techniques Ian Saldanha, Biosecurity & Animal Welfare Advisor, Cawthron Institute (2023-2025) I have been involved in the lab animal industry for over 10 years. Before taking up a position at the Cawthron Institute in Nelson, I was the Head of the Animal facility at the Malaghan Institute in Wellington. This is where my passion for working with animals grew. During this time, I served on the executive committee for Australia New Zealand Laboratory Animal Association (ANZLAA) for a few years where I used this opportunity to support those that work in the animal science field and meet others from the industry. One of the highlights in my career was getting the opportunity to travel the world, visit other animal facilities, and gain an understanding about how they operate. Outside my profession I have a love for the outdoors in particular running. I enjoy travelling, meeting new people, and of course spending time with my family. ANZCCART Fellow (observer) Ms Morgan Heslop, PhD student, Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre, Massey University (2023-2025) My research expertise is in animal welfare science, and I am particularly interested in how we understand the inner lives of animals. I was inspired to pursue a career in research when I learned of an entire scientific discipline dedicated to answering questions I had been asking myself for years! What I love most is discussing welfare and ethics with people who share my enthusiasm – or who can be convinced to! Our members (funders): Along with Unitec|Te Pūkenga. If you are interested in becoming a member, please contact ANZCCART (NZ). History of ANZCCART ANZCCART, the Australian and New Zealand Council for the Care of Animals in Research and Teaching, was established on the 1st of January, 1993, as a result of a collaborative effort between the Australian Council for the Care of Animals in Research and Teaching (ACCART, established in May 1987) and various New Zealand authorities, including the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (now known as the Ministry for Primary Industries) and the Royal Society of New Zealand (now Royal Society Te Apārangi). In New Zealand, this followed decades of efforts by the Society to promote and progress the humane use of animals in science. The Australia-New Zealand collaboration aimed to address the growing need for ethical and scientific guidance in the use of animals for research and teaching purposes in both countries. In New Zealand, ANZCCART operates as a committee of the Royal Society Te Apārangi, maintaining strong connections with its Australian counterpart. New Zealand formed a standing committee of the Royal Society and joined ACCART to form ANZCCART in 1993. The joint name was to emphasise united efforts in promoting the ethical use of animals in research and teaching across both nations.This partnership has allowed the organizations to share resources, expertise, and knowledge while working towards common goals. For a comprehensive understanding of ANZCCART's history, we recommend reading the article “ Reflections on the use of animals in research, testing and teaching in New Zealand – a historical perspective. ” by Dr David Bayvel et al. (2011). (PDF, 653 kb, 4 pages) This article offers valuable insights into the development of ANZCCART and the progress made over the years in improving the ethical and scientific use of animals in research, testing, and teaching in both Australia and New Zealand. Resource links about ANZCCART and animal welfare in New Zealand The following resources about ANZCCART and animal welfare in New Zealand are available: Animal Research Saves Lives (ANZCCART resource) (PDF, 1.8 MB, 14 pages) Animal welfare in NZ (Ministry of Primary Industries) ANZCCART Annual Report (PDF, 1.5 MB, 46 pages) ANZCCART Newsletters Culture of Care (NAEAC guide for people working with animals in research, testing and teaching) (PDF) SPCA New Zealand The National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee (NAEAC) website The National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) website What is ANZCCART (2017)(ANZCCART resource) (PDF, 428 kb, 1 page)

  • ANZCCART Conference 2001

    ANZCCART Conference 2001 Joint ANZCCART/NAEAC Conference on 28-29 June 2001 Held at the Novotel Tainui Hotel, Hamilton, New Zealand NB: this page was written in advance of the conference Exploring the relationships between ourselves, animals, and the environment is the theme of the conference jointly organised by the Australian and New Zealand Council for the Care of Animals in Research and Teaching (ANZCCART) and the National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee (NAEAC). Issues to be addressed include the interdependence and interconnectedness of all life, the images of science and scientists, relevant legislation, dealing with new technology, fish research, and what could and should statistics or the popular media tell us. In understanding these relationships and challenging our beliefs, this conference will help to map the intricate connections between humans, animals, and the environment. It will therefore be valuable to anyone interested in how we learn, communicate, and evolve the relationships between ourselves and the natural world. This conference will be of special interest to those involved in education, in science in both the public and private sectors, and to those interested in teaching, animal welfare, the environment, ethics, and the communication and regulation of community expectations. The programme will provide both local, Australian, and international perspectives. ANZCCART aims to provide leadership in developing community consensus on ethical, social, and scientific issues relating to the use of animals in research and teaching. NAEAC provides independent advice to the Minister of Agriculture on policy and practices relating to the use of animals in research, testing and teaching. Programme Thursday, 28 June 8.15 am Registration 8.45 am Opening Session 1 Primary and secondary education Focus: To consider how our interaction with animals and the environment has changed and how we might develop better interactions through education 9.00 am Cam Reid Oration: Learning, animals and the environment — an animal rights perspective Mr Gary Reese, Compassion in World Farming, London; former member of SAFE, Auckland (by videoconference) 9.40 amInfluences on learning Mrs Barbara Benson, Dunedin College of Education 10.20 am Morning tea 10.50 am Consequences of the continuity between the human and biological worlds Professor David Penny, Massey University 11.30 am Science in the classroom Mr Peter Trim, Independent consultant 12 noon Lunch Session 2 Tertiary education and research and teaching Focus: To consider the influences which impinge on the acceptability of animal-based research, testing and teaching and how we might acknowledge and incorporate them 1.00 pm Public perception of scientists: Frankenstein and Einstein Professor Frank Griffin, University of Otago 1.40 pm The next generation of scientist Dr Catherine Morrow, AgResearch Ruakura 2.20 pm Alternatives and the future Professor Bruce Baguley, Auckland Cancer Society Research Institute 3.00 pm Afternoon tea 3.30 pm The Animal Welfare Act 1999 – impacts and issues Professor John Marbrook, Deputy Chair NAEAC 4.10 pm Skeletons and sovereigns in the cupboard — learning from history Dr Mark Fisher, AgResearch Poukawa Friday, 29 June Session 3 Future challenges Focus: To consider the challenges that we could use to build an appropriate learning environment for our interaction with animals and nature 8.30 am Moving forward with the media Dr Mark Matfield, Research Defense Society, UK (by videoconference); Dr Kay Weavers, University of Waikato 9.25 am Democratically modified science Ms Ronda Cooper, Office of the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment 10.05 am Morning tea 10.25 am The next Animal Welfare Act Hon Pete Hodgson, Minister of Research, Science and Technology 11.10 am Fish as experimental animals Good for science and fish? Dr John Baldwin, Monash University, Melbourne 11.40 am “Back off man, I’m a scientist” Dr David Scobie, AgResearch Lincoln 12.20 pm Lunch Session 4 Care and regulation Focus: To consider how society should move forward in dealing with the regulatory aspects of animals and the environment. 1.00 pm Dealing with the emerged technologies Dr Judy McArthur-Clark, Biozone, UK 1.40 pm Living with the legislation Dr Donald Hannah, ERMA NZ 2.20 pm Care beyond regulation Dr Barbara Nicholas, Christchurch 3.00 pm Close of conference Conference details Venue The 2001 ANZCCART conference was held jointly with the National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee (NAEAC). The venue is the Novotel Tainui Hotel, Alma Street, Hamilton — located on the banks of the Waikato River in the Central Business District of Hamilton.

  • Animal Research in New Zealand

    Information on Animal Research in New Zealand for Schools It is the responsibility of everyone who uses animals to ensure that they are only used when absolutely necessary and that when they are used they are treated with care and respect. If an animal is used for research, testing or teaching the work must be conducted in line with the Three Rs (from the ideas of Russell and Burch in their 1959 book “The principles of humane experimental technique”, available through the Johns Hopkins Alt Web website): Replacement : where possible an alternative to animal testing must be used. This could include a computer model or cell culture (where animal or human cells are grown in a laboratory). Reduction : the minimum number of animals must be used to gain good experimental results. This means that experiments must be well designed and that as many experimental variables as possible are controlled (i.e. that you only change one thing in your experimental group as compared to your control group). This means that the research or test will provide quality data which can withstand statistical analysis. Refinement : the animals should not suffer. At all times the health and well-being of the animal should be a priority. As much as possible the animal should be able to live normally, free from any pain and suffering, throughout the research, teaching or testing process. ANZCCART booklets providing examples of how these principles have been applied are available here . Resources on the use of animals in research, testing or teaching for schools The following resources are available on the use of animals in research, testing or teaching: Using animals in science , student resource (ANZCCART publication 2019) (PDF, 2.8 MB, 22 pages) Animal research saves lives, questions and answers (ANZCCART resource 2013) (PDF, 1.8 MB, 14 pages) Download Three Rs poster (ANZCCART resource) (PDF, 6.7 MB, 1 page) Animal welfare in NZ (Ministry for Primary Industries) National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee (NAEAC) website National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) website Alt web (resource database hosted by Johns Hopkins University) SPCA New Zealand Animal ethics resources on TKI website DEMOCs discussion game (from EdinEthics, UK Website)

  • Researchers

    Information for New Zealand Researchers and Tertiary Education Researchers, technicians or tertiary teachers are often directly responsible for animal welfare. The following information has been designed by ANZCCART to assist these groups when they are conducting research, testing and/or undertaking teaching involving animals. Animal ethics and legislation in New Zealand Please click to follow link for information on ethics and legislation in New Zealand . Understanding Animal Ethics Committees Please click to follow link for information on Animal Ethics Committees and the criteria for assessing applications . Assistance with statistics in designing studies with animals Appropriate research study design is an important part of reducing the numbers of animals used in research and testing. We strongly recommend the free interactive course on designing animal experiments provided by Michael Festing. Designing and reporting animal experiments ANZCCART (NZ) endorses the PREPARE and ARRIVE guidelines for the designing and reporting of animal experiments involving the use of animals. The guidelines are intended to improve the planning and reporting of research using animals – maximising information published and minimising unnecessary studies. PREPARE guidelines for planning animal experiments can be found here . ARRIVE guidelines for reporting animal experiments can be found here . The ARRIVE reporting guidelines have been endorsed by over 1,000 scientific journals including nature, and the journals of the Royal Society Te Apārangi. A 3-minute video about the PREPARE guidelines can be found here . Animal welfare Please click to follow link for information on managing pain and anaesthesia in research animals. Alternatives to using animals in research, testing, or teaching Please click to follow link for information on alternatives to using animals in research, testing, or teaching. ComPass Animal Welfare Training This free online course covers the Australian Code and NZ Guide and welfare issues relating to animal use in research and teaching. Successful completion of Phase one of the course and its quiz fulfills the mandated basic training needs of researchers and teachers using animals as well as members of Animal Ethics Committees (AEC) in Australia and NZ (except AEC members in Victoria who are required to complete the Animal Welfare Victoria training). The aim is to standardize and augment the training offered for animal users in research and teaching throughout Australasia by offering this free online interactive and resource-rich course to all who need this training. For the course link and more information . Resource bank and recommendations on best practice There are ANZCCART resources and Links to r esources from other organisations that contain information and resources about animal welfare and alternatives to using animals. If you would like to add information or resources to this database please contact us . Information updates Our regular newsletter ANZCCART News contains updates on animal welfare, legislation and alternatives to using animals. If you are doing work that has animal ethics approval you should receive this newsletter (via email). If you have not been receiving a copy of ANZCCART News please contact us . Archived editions are available here . ANZCCART Conferences ANZCCART holds an annual conference which discusses animal welfare in the context of research, testing and teaching. The conference location varies and usually is held two successive years in Australia followed by one year in New Zealand. For more details please see our conference page . ANZCCART Contacts for questions If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact us .

  • general-info

    Information about animal research in New Zealand New Zealanders’ Attitudes to Animal Research in 2023 A recently conducted study reveals New Zealanders’ perspectives and knowledge on the use of animals in scientific research, testing, and teaching. The study was conducted on behalf of the New Zealand board of the Australian and New Zealand Council for the Care of Animals in Research and Teaching (ANZCCART NZ). You can read the report here: ANZCCART_Animal research report Final .pdf Download PDF • 3.37MB ANZCCART Press release: New Study Reveals New Zealanders' Views on Animal Use in Scientific Research and Teaching Science Media Centre expert reaction to the study can be read here . The use of animals in research, testing and teaching in New Zealand Animal use in research, testing and teaching in New Zealand is strictly controlled under the Animal Welfare Act 1999 . Any person or organisation using animals must follow an approved code of ethical conduct, which sets out the policies and procedures that must be followed by the organisation and its animal ethics committee. Further information about the regulation of animal research is available from the Ministry of Primary Industries . Records of the annual numbers of animals used in research, testing and teaching have been collected since 1987, and record animals that have had manipulations involving the normal physiological, behavioural, or anatomical integrity of the animal by deliberately subjecting it to a procedure which is unusual or abnormal when compared with that to which animals of that type would be subjected under normal management or practice. This can involve exposing the animal to any parasite, micro-organism, drug, chemical, biological product, radiation, electrical stimulation, or environmental condition; or enforced activity, restraint, nutrition, or surgical intervention; or depriving the animal of usual care. Proportion of animals (per type) used in research, testing and teaching in 2022 From 1 January 2018, the definition of ‘manipulation’ was expanded to include the killing of an animal for research, testing or teaching on its body or tissues, and the breeding or producing offspring that have potentially compromised welfare due to breeding (for example, to research some hereditary medical conditions). All animals reported in this new category are required to be treated with the same duty of care as animals used for research and teaching. Reasons for animals being bred but not used might include: Wrong sex for the specific research project (this is because the sex ratio of offspring can often not be controlled prior to birth). Creating or maintaining genetically altered lines (not all offspring have the required genetic alteration). Number bred was over and above what was needed (exact size of litters or number of offspring born are usually unpredictable). Sufficient numbers are needed to sustain animal colonies, as well as ensure adequate diversity and sufficient timely supply for research and teaching purposes. ‘Sentinel animals’ used for health screening of other animals in the laboratory, whose condition hints towards any subtle health issues in the lab that could widely impact other animals’ welfare. The animals can also be useful after death in teaching and training, or by storing tissues from the animals which can be used in future research. This may reduce the number of animals that need to be bred and used in future. Statistics on New Zealand’s use of animals in research can be found here: 2022 , 2021 , 2020 , 2019 , 2018 , 2017 , 2016 , 2015 , 2014 , 2013 , 2012 , 2011 , 2010 Infographics on this data can be found here: 2020 , 2019 , 2018 , 2017 The definition of animal, however, varies from country to country: In New Zealand it includes any mammal, bird, reptile, amphibian, fish, octopus, squid, crab, lobster, or crayfish, including any mammalian foetus, or any avian or reptilian pre-hatched young, that is in the last half of its period of gestation or development, but excludes any animal in the pre-natal, pre-hatched, larval, or other such developmental stage (other than those indicated previously). Marsupial pouch young are also considered animals. In Australia it includes any fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals and cephalopods, but with some variation by state. In some States it also extends to lobsters, crabs or crayfish. In South Australia, a license is not required to use fish for research purposes. In the US , it includes warm-blooded animals, but excludes birds, rats and mice bred for use in research. In the EU , it includes live vertebrate animals and cephalopods, including independently feeding larval forms and foetal forms of mammals. Institutional Codes of Ethical Conduct under animal welfare legislation Before institutions in New Zealand are permitted to use animals for research, testing or teaching, they must apply for a licence from the government. The licence is called a ‘Code of Ethical Conduct’. This system is unique to New Zealand. Each institutional Code sets out the conditions and rules for animal use. Codes vary between organisations, depending upon the nature of the scientific activity. These Codes offer insights into how organisations value animals used for scientific or teaching purposes. In the interests of transparency, ANZCCART requested in 2015 that these codes be made available for public scrutiny. In response to our request, the institutional codes of ethical conduct approved by the Director-General of the Ministry for Primary Industries that were current in 2015 (n=21) were made available from the FYI website , with an additional code available here . [Please note that the codes for Massey University, New Zealand Association of Science Educators and the University of Canterbury are not included on the FYI website as they are already available on their respective institutional websites.] In 2021 the ANZCCART New Zealand Openness Agreement has encouraged all signatories to make their codes publicly available on their institution’s website. ARRIVE and PREPARE Guidelines ANZCCART is supporting the adoption of the ARRIVE guidelines for reporting the findings of research projects using animals, and the PREPARE guidelines for planning research using animals. More information on these guidelines can be found here: ARRIVE , PREPARE . ANZCCART supports and encourages the re-homing of research animals as an alternative to euthanasia, wherever possible. ANZCCART Newsletters You can sign up for the ANZCCART Newsletter here . The latest editions can be seen here . Frequently asked questions: 1. What regulations exist for animal research in New Zealand? New Zealand law mandates that researchers must apply to an Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) to gain approval for using animals in research, testing, and teaching. These AECs are also tasked with monitoring approved research activities. The composition of AECs includes a veterinarian, a scientist, a member of an animal welfare advocacy organization (e.g., SPCA), and a layperson with no involvement in animal research. This diverse membership provides a broad perspective on animal welfare. The government, while not directly involved in AEC decision-making, regulates animal research by reviewing the codes of ethical conduct that AECs and researchers operate under, oversees these AECs and requires annual reporting from the organisations that have them​​. 2. Is cosmetic testing on animals allowed in New Zealand? Testing on animals for developing, making, or testing a cosmetic or an ingredient that is intended exclusively for use in a cosmetic is explicitly banned in New Zealand under the Animal Welfare Act 1999, 2015 amendment. 3. How are animals chosen for research? Animals are selected for research based on the specific needs of the study and the suitability of different species to provide relevant data. The selection process is governed by ethical considerations, aiming to use non-sentient, or non-living organisms where possible and to minimize the number of animals used. Researchers must demonstrate that no viable alternatives exist and that the potential benefits of the research justify the use of animals. 4. Are there alternatives to using animals in research? Yes, researchers actively seek alternatives to animal testing, such as cell-based models, computer modelling, and other technologies that can reduce or eliminate the need for animal use. This effort aligns with the Three Rs: Replacement of animals with non-animal methods, Reduction in the number of animals used, and Refinement of techniques to reduce impacts​​. 5. How can the public learn more about animal research? The public can learn more about animal research through various trusted sources, including animal welfare organizations, regulatory bodies, and research institutions. Many of these organisations support openness about use of animals in research and teaching as signatories to the Openness Agreement on Animal use in Research and Teaching in New Zealand. They provide educational resources online, offering insights into how animal research is conducted, regulated, and how it contributes to scientific and medical advancements. Engaging with these sources can provide a balanced view of the ethical considerations and the importance of animal research in certain contexts. Resource links The following resources are available on the use of animals in research, testing or teaching in New Zealand: What is ANZCCART? (flyer) National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee (NAEAC) website National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) website Animal welfare in NZ (Ministry for Primary Industries) Guide to the Animal Welfare (Ministry for Primary Industries) Animal Research Saves Lives (ANZCCART resource) (PDF, 1.8 MB, 14 pages) Three Rs Poster (ANZCCART resource) (PDF, 6.7 MB, 1 page) ANZCCART Newsletters Alt web (resource database hosted by Johns Hopkins University) SPCA New Zealand Culture of Care (A NAEAC guide for people working with animals in research, testing and teaching) (PDF, 428 kb, 6 pages)

  • ComPass Training

    ComPass Animal Welfare Training This free online course covers the Australian Code and NZ Guide and welfare issues relating to animal use in research and teaching. Successful completion of Phase one of the course and its quiz fulfills the mandated basic training needs of researchers and teachers using animals as well as members of Animal Ethics Committees (AEC) in Australia and NZ (except AEC members in Victoria who are required to complete the Animal Welfare Victoria training). The aim is to standardize and augment the training offered for animal users in research and teaching throughout Australasia by offering this free online interactive and resource-rich course to all who need this training. For the course link and more information (Australian website) .

  • Alternatives to Animals in RTT | ANZCCART

    Alternatives to using animals in research, testing or teaching This section contains a selection of resources highlighting the alternatives to using animals in research, testing and teaching. The Three Rs animal welfare principles The Three Rs — replacement, reduction and refinement — were first introduced by the authors Russell and Burch in their 1959 book, The Principles of Humane Experimental Technique (available through the Johns Hopkins Alt Web website ). Since then these ideas have become fundamental principles in the area of animal welfare for research, testing and teaching. ​ Replacement means that where possible we encourage and support the replacement of animal use with alternatives (e.g., cell cultures). Reduction is about reducing the numbers of animals used in research, testing and teaching, without impacting on the quality of the data gained. This can be achieved through robust training programmes, preventing duplication of studies and ensuring good study design. Refinement aims to minimise and eliminate the suffering of animals used for research, testing and teaching. Good animal husbandry, ethical conduct and empathy are important if refinements are to be achieved. ANZCCART Resources The Australian and New Zealand Council for the Care of Animals in Research and Teaching (ANZCCART) and the Ministry for Primary Industries have produced a series of booklets on the application of the three Rs (replacement, reduction and refinement) in the use of animals in research and teaching. The following focus on replacement and reduction. Cell-based Disease Models (replacement) Computer Assisted Learning (replacement) Mannequins and Dummies (replacement) Alternatives to shellfish toxicity testing (replacement) Fireflies to the rescue (reduction) Mathematical models (reduction) Tissue sharing (reduction) ​ Resource links on alternatives 9th World congress on alternatives and animal use in the life sciences (conference website) Alt web (resource database hosted by Johns Hopkins University) Altex, alternatives to animal experimentation (journal website) Centre for Alternatives to Animal Testing (at Johns Hopkins University) EU reference laboratory for alternatives to animal testing (EURL ECVAM) European society for alternates to animal testing ICCVAM (US committee advancing alternatives to animal testing) Korean centre for the validation of alternatives to animal testing (KoCVAM) Physicians committee for responsible medicine, alternatives to animal testing Statistics resources for experiments involving animals

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