RMIT supports responsible research involving genetically modified organisms or gene technology.
Research and teaching using genetically modified organisms (GMOs) carried out at RMIT must comply with the Australian Gene Technology Governance Framework, including the Gene Technology Act 2000 (Cth) and the Gene Technology Regulations 2001.
All research involving genetically modified organisms at RMIT undergoes a rigourous review and approval process. Researchers must gain appropriate approval from the RMIT Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) and/or Office for the Gene Technology Regulator before starting research if they plan to use GMOs for any purpose, including research and teaching.
The RMIT IBC reviews and approved all proposals for Exempt Dealings and Notifiable Low Risk Dealings. Licensed Dealings are reviewed by the RMIT IBC prior to submission to the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) for approval and licencing. The RMIT IBC also reviews proposals for and inspects all Physical Containment (PC) facilities across RMIT, requiring OGTR certification.
The RMIT IBC membership functions as per the responsibilities set out under the Office for the Gene Technology Regulator Guidelines for Accreditation of Organisations.
If you would like to know more about how RMIT supports responsible research with genetically modified organisms, please contact our Research Ethics and Integrity team at: biosafety@rmit.edu.au
For RMIT staff and students, you can find detailed information and resources on gaining and maintaining of approvals for GMO research, responsible conduct of GMO research, as well links to related training and resources, in the RMIT Researcher Portal.
Acknowledgement of Country
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.
Acknowledgement of Country
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.