Charles Darwin University Human Research Ethics - Application Form - First Nations Research, Exemption and Review Pathways

Sep 15, 2026

Charles Darwin University Human Research Ethics application form outlines requirements for presenting finalised human research plans with clear methodology, oversight arrangements, and third-party involvement details to avoid delays. It emphasizes compliance with the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research 2025, including the non-acceptance of retrospective ethics approval. Guidance covers First Nations research expectations, exemption eligibility for low-risk non-identifiable datasets, reciprocal approval processes, and submission preparation for review under executive or full HREC pathways.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryHealthcare

FormatPDF

Pages34

Reading Time1 h 26 min

AccessFree to download

Charles Darwin University Human Research Ethics

First Nations Research

Exemption

Prior HREC Review (Reciprocal approval)

Submission of Application

Review Pathways

Charles Darwin University Human Research Ethics Application Form The University is committed to upholding the highest standards of research conduct and integrity and minimizing harm to participants, researchers, third parties and the University. This ethics application gives you the opportunity to present your finalised research plans precisely, clearly and concisely. The methodology and methods of your research, your oversight of its conduct and the requirements of any third party involvement needs to be complete and correct to avoid delay. Higher Degree Research applications will be reviewed only after Confirmation of Candidature is granted. As an accountable and responsible researcher, you are required to meet all obligations under the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research 2025 and any other relevant legislation or guidelines. Retrospective ethics approval will not be granted. First Nations Research Where the primary focus of the project is within the scope of First Nation research, it is essential that Section 13 of this form is completed. Applicants should also refer to the following policies and guides: AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research (2020) A Guide to applying The AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research (2020) NHMRC Ethical Conduct in Research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and Communities: Guidelines for Researchers and Stakeholders (2018) It is requested that First Nations research ethics proposals are accompanied by a completed and signed research agreement (or a reasonable equivalent) with an appropriate organisational head, community group leader, Elder or advisory group. For more information on research agreements, applicants should refer to CDU’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Agreement (ATSIRA) template Exemption Some research projects that utilise existing, publicly available non-identifiable data and which are of lower risk and do not involve special groups of participants e.g. cognitive impairment, mental illness, First Nations (including possible impact), dependent on medical care, illegal activity, pregnant mother or foetus or dependent/unequal status (often children), may be eligible for exemption as per Chapter 5.1 of the National Statement. A letter of Exemption can also be sought from the CDU-HREC w here required. To apply for written confirmation of an exemption, please review the National Statement 2025 and complete the Application for Exemption form. The decision as to whether to grant an exemption from review for a research projectis the responsibility of the institution—it is not the responsibility of the researcher ( NS 2023) . If an exepmtion is granted, you will receive formal letter of exemption. If it is determined that the research activity is not exempt from review, then you will be required to complete this Application Form. Prior HREC Review ( Reciprocal approval) To apply for CDU approval for a protocol with prior approval by another NHMRC registered human research ethics committee ( HREC), please complete the Charles Darwin University Human Research Reciprocal Application Form. Protocols requiring ethical approval by the NT Department of Health and Menzies School of Health Research HREC should be first submitted to that ethics committee on their approved form, and then submitted to CDU as a Reciprocal Proposal. Submission of Application Read the full text of all questions. Respond concisely to all applicable sections, using clear language suited to be understood by an informed critical layperson. Prepare your Information for Participants and Informed Consent Forms as attachments. Be sure to proofread carefully and complete the checklist before submitting. Review Pathways Executive Review: Projects that pose only a lower risk as described in the updated National Statement 2025 (formerly known as negligible risk

FAQs

What is the main purpose of this Human Research Ethics application form?

It enables applicants to present finalised human research plans precisely, clearly, and concisely, including methodology, oversight, and any third-party involvement requirements.

Can retrospective ethics approval be granted for human research?

No. Retrospective ethics approval will not be granted under the stated obligations.

How do executive review and full committee review differ under the review pathways?

Executive Review applies to lower-risk projects reviewed by the Chair of the CDU-HREC, while higher-risk projects and specified research categories require full CDU-HREC review.

Sep 15, 2026

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