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AIATSIS Code of Ethics

Providing leadership and ethical practice in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research

The newly released AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research (AIATSIS Code of Ethics) and A Guide to applying the AIATSIS Code of Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research have replaced the Guidelines for Ethical Research in Australian Indigenous Studies 2012 (GERAIS).

The AIATSIS Code of Ethics is issued under the authority of our governing legislation which requires AIATSIS to provide leadership in ethics and protocols for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research and activities related to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander collections.

The AIATSIS Code of Ethics recognises that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have the right to control and maintain their culture and heritage, and that means benefiting from research undertaken by, with and about them. The following diagram from the, AIATSIS Code of Ethics, shows the four major principles with a related set of responsibilities.

The AIATSIS research ethics framework diagram

The AIATSIS Code of Ethics applies to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research, including research activities relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander collections.

A range of resources are being developed and rolled out by the Ethics and Research Leadership Team. If you would like to submit suggestions for resources, or receive updates, please sign up.

We’re also interested in hearing from you on where the AIATSIS Code of Ethics has been utilised in research, community engagement or policies.  Please make contact with the Ethics and Research Leadership team by email, we are keen to hear from you!

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Last updated: 16 August 2022