Mrs SALLY QUINNELL (Camden) (10:58): I look forward to contributing to debate on the Animal Research Amendment (Prohibition of Forced Swim Tests and Forced Smoke Inhalation Experiments) Bill 2023. Animal research is undoubtedly a complex issue that require us to carefully consider ethical factors alongside the important medical outcomes that can be achieved. Between those two competing issues is the need to ensure that the regulatory framework is robust and can adapt to the latest advice and evidence. That is why I support the strong and robust framework that governs animal research in this State.

A key component of that framework is the Animal Research Review Panel, known as the ARRP. It is a statutory body set up under the Animal Research Act 1985. The main role of the ARRP is, first, to investigate matters relating to the conduct of animal research and the supply of animals used for animal research; secondly, to investigate and evaluate the efficacy of the code of practice, which is the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes, in regulating the conduct of animal research and the supply of animals used in animal research; and, thirdly, to investigate applications and complaints referred to the panel under the Act.

The expertise of the ARRP is an important reason that the Government can support this bill. The recommendations and advice received from the ARRP inform the Minister about best-practice approaches to animal research underpinned by evidence. ARRP membership includes relevant New South Wales Government Ministers and nominated members from the peak body for universities in New South Wales, Medicines Australia, Animals Australia and RSPCA NSW. That membership mix means that the advice provided to the Minister and the Government is not only based on the latest evidence, but also considers a wide range of perspectives on issues relevant to medical research.