An "appeal" here means a written submission from a researcher to the Chairperson of the approving Committee (in the first instance) about a dispute. Researchers may discuss their situation with the Ethics Officer before progressing to an appeal. In matters of dispute between an investigator and a sub-committee, the HEERC has the final say on matters within the ambit of the NHMRC Statement and committee policy. In general the approving Committee will address the appeal in the first instance. Investigators also have the right to have the matter addressed directly by the HEERC. Researchers must submit any appeal of a Committee's decision to the Chairperson of the reviewing committee by giving it to the Ethics Officer. Approving Committees can invite researchers to meetings to discuss matters of concern.

Referral to HEERC

Projects that are discussed at full membership meetings due to concerns being insufficiently addressed by the researchers, and where negotiations with the researcher have proved fruitless, can be referred to the HEERC. A sub-committee may seek the advice of the HEERC on proposals before the sub-committee should the sub-committee deem that the proposal raises several contentious ethical issues for which a second opinion is requested. The HEERC Chairperson can request attendance by the researchers at a meeting to discuss the issues of concern. An HEERC decision, about an appeal or a matter referred to it, is final.