I am excited to share with you the Best Practice Guidelines for the Collection and Transfer of Genetic Resources, a comprehensive framework designed to guide ethical and scientifically sound practices in the management of genetic resources. The guidelines aim to address legal complexities by providing recommendations for researchers and access providers involved in the collection, transfer, and use of genetic materials within Australia.
The guidelines, which include information on Commonwealth, State and Territory-specific laws, will serve as a resource for a wide range of sectors, including academic institutions, scientific research organisations, conservation bodies, and the biotechnology industry.
As genetic resources play an increasingly critical role in agriculture, conservation, and scientific research, it’s vital that we have clear, practical, and responsible guidelines to ensure best practice.
The guidelines align with international agreements, such as the Nagoya Protocol, which aims to share benefits arising from the use of genetic resources equitably. They are available for download from the Plant Success website and were developed in collaboration with the ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology.
Brad Sherman
Chief Investigator, The University of Queensland
