Expression of Interest, Category D Member, Animal Ethics Committee

 Perth Zoo is seeking expressions of interest from community members for a fixed-term position on its Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) as a Category D member.
The AEC provides ethical review and oversight of activities involving the use of animals for scientific purposes at Perth Zoo facilities. Its role is to ensure that these activities are conducted in accordance with the Australian Code for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes.
 
To be eligible as a Category D member, you must:

• not be employed by or otherwise associated with Perth Zoo;
• have never been involved in the use of animals in scientific or teaching activities, either through your employment or beyond your undergraduate education;
• bring a completely independent community perspective to the AEC; and
• not meet the requirements of any other AEC membership category.

 
Category D members play an important role in ensuring the AEC includes a genuinely independent perspective that reflects the views and expectations of the wider community.
 
As a member of the AEC, you will:

• provide independent review of applications for projects, proposed amendments and reports relating to the care and use of animals at Perth Zoo;
• contribute to determining whether proposed activities meet the requirements of the
• actively participate in Committee discussions and decision-making, bringing an independent community perspective to the ethical consideration of animal use; and
• on occasion, be asked to participate as a member of the Executive Committee to review submissions that do not require full AEC review and may be considered out of session.

 
The AEC meets four times each year.
In-person attendance is preferred; however, attendance via Microsoft Teams can be arranged where appropriate. Members are expected to allow sufficient time before each meeting to read and consider applications and associated documentation provided for review.
 
A sitting fee is paid for each meeting attended. The fee is paid on a per-meeting basis and includes time spent preparing for the meeting. A valid ABN is required for payment, and reserved parking will be provided on meeting days. Perth Zoo will provide a full induction covering the functions and responsibilities of the Committee, relevant systems training and ongoing support throughout the appointment.
 
To apply
Please provide a cover letter and CV containing sufficient information for us to assess your suitability and eligibility for appointment as a Category D member.
Your application should:

• explain why you are interested in joining the Animal Ethics Committee for Perth Zoo;
• demonstrate how you meet the eligibility requirements for a Category D member;
• outline the skills, experience and attributes you would bring to the Committee; and
• explain how you would contribute an independent community perspective to the AEC’s consideration of ethical issues relating to the care and use of animals.

Applications close: 30 Nov 2026
For further information about the position, please contact:
Email: research.office@perthzoo.wa.gov.au