FAQs

For the Human Research Ethics Committee

Who needs to apply?

If your research involves the following, you will need to obtain clearance:

a) collection of personal opinions

b) interviews

c) circulation of a questionnaire

d) conduct of a survey involving a volunteer sample

e) observation of human behaviour 

f) studying or engaging in illegal activities

The responsibility to obtain ethics clearance applies to all research projects which involve human participants. Clearance must be sought from the Committee BEFORE the project commences.

Who can help with my application?

The CQUniversity Human Research Ethics Committee (CQUHREC ) Human Research Ethics Committee Application Form Procedures to assist researchers and students. The CQUHREC Chair and Secretary can assist you to interpret and complete the form. You can also speak with your supervisor (if applicable) or a researcher who is experienced in writing human ethics applications.

What should I submit with the application?

One (1) original signed application by the closing date. Electronic applications are acceptable, provided that the original signed declaration page is sent by mail prior to the meeting date. 

Most applications will require an information sheet. A consent form will be required where interviews are used, minors are involved or individuals in dependent/unequal relationships. Where completion of a survey is required consent forms may not be required, as completion of a survey may be taken as consent to participate.

a) Copies of questionnaires and interview questions to be used in connection with the research must be provided to the Committee with your application. 

b) For informal interviews a one page summary of discussion topics should be provided.

c) If letters of permission from organisations are necessary, copies of these should be attached or it can be indicated that they are pending.

What if my supervisor is absent and can't sign the application?

If your supervisor is absent at the time of submission the CQUniversity Human Research Ethics Committee will accept the signature of one (1) the following on behalf of your Supervisor:

a) Faculty Dean

b) Faculty Associate Dean (Research) 

c) Head of School / Department

IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED THAT YOU PLAN YOUR RESEARCH PROJECT IN CONSULTATION WITH YOUR SUPERVISOR.

Where can I get information on the ethical principles which are considered in the approval process?

Please refer to the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research.

Where do I apply for approval to conduct research in schools?

Please refer to the Education Queensland website.

When will I know of the outcome of my application?

The notification of the outcome of meetings is approximately five (5) working days after the meeting. It is recommended that you submit your application two months prior to the commencement of research.

Please be aware that further amendments to your research project may be required to satisfy the Committee's concerns. Full approval of your research project should not be automatically presumed.

PDF versions of the unsigned approval letters will be emailed to applicants as soon as the report has been verified by the Chair.  Hard copy of the signed approval letter will be sent to the researcher/supervisor and other researchers (if applicable) as soon as signatures have been obtained. 

If you are required to attend an interview on the meeting day, you will be notified the week preceding the meeting date.

Where should I submit the application?

Postal
Office of Research
HREC
Building 32, CQUniversity
Rockhampton QLD 4702

In Person
Office of Research
2nd Floor, Building 32

Do I need ethical clearance for amendments to my research project?

All requests for changes to approved projects must be submitted to the CQUniversity Human Research Ethics Committee (CQUHREC) on the modification form. Minor amendments may be approved by the Executive subcommittee of the CQUHREC . All minor amendments approved by the Executive on behalf of the CQUHREC must be ratified by the full committee at the next meeting.