About Bellberry
Bellberry is Australia’s largest reviewer of clinical trials, responsible for around 40% of the nation’s TGA-registered clinical research each year.
Our 12 NHMRC-certified Human Research Ethics Committees provide high-quality, time-efficient, independent assessment and oversight across clinical, social and behavioural research.
Independent ethics review you can trust
Bellberry was founded in 2024 following the recognition of a need for a HREC to service the valuable human and health research being conducted in South Australia
Today we are Australia’s largest reviewer of clinical trials, responsible for around 40% of the nation’s TGA registered clinical research each year. More than half of all new therapies approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other regulators have been seen by a Bellberry committee at some stage in their life cycle.
12 NHMRC-certified HRECs
Studies reviewed nationwide
Gold-seal accreditation
Typical decision time
Supporting ethical research for the benefit of all
Bellberry exists to promote and improve the welfare of research participants and to strengthen the integrity of research conducted across Australia.
As a not-for-profit organisation, we reinvest all surplus funds into programs that give back to the research community — from investigator grants and educational workshops to initiatives that improve participant engagement and inclusion.
Through this ongoing reinvestment, Bellberry helps shape a stronger, more connected research ecosystem — one built on respect, accountability and innovation.
Learn more about our Grant Activities
Setting the national benchmark for ethical review
Bellberry is proud to be Australia’s first organisation to achieve AAHRPP full accreditation, the international gold standard in human research protection. This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to quality, consistency and participant safety.
All 12 of our HRECs are NHMRC-certified under the National Approach to Single Ethical Review of Multi-Centre Research, ensuring that every study we review meets rigorous national and international standards.
View HREC Structure & Certification
Independent, collaborative and transparent
Bellberry’s model of independence ensures that ethics committee operations remain separate from the organisation’s financial and administrative functions. This structural independence safeguards impartiality and supports the integrity of every review decision.
Our committees and secretariat teams work in partnership with researchers, sponsors, and institutions through eProtocol — Bellberry’s secure, fully digital submission and review platform.
This collaborative environment allows for consistent communication, faster turnaround, and a higher standard of oversight across every study we support.
Learn more about Our Company
For research that needs extra support or specialised review
In addition to HREC services, Bellberry offers specialist committees to meet specific research needs.
Animal Ethics Committee (AEC)
Reviews scientific projects involving animals to ensure compliance with the Australian Code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes, and to safeguard animal welfare.
Consumer and Community Advisory Panel (CCAP)
Provides consumer perspectives to strengthen the design and relevance of human research studies.
Ethics Education Support
Education and advisory service to strengthen ethics knowledge and governance within your organisation.
Expertise, efficiency and independent oversight
Choosing Bellberry means partnering with Australia’s leading independent human research ethics organisation. We combine rigorous ethical oversight with nationally recognised speed, ensuring your study meets the highest standards of participant protection and governance while moving swiftly from submission to approval.
See all benefits
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Comprehensive ethical oversight
Bellberry reviews studies and ensures appropriate governance in line with the National Statement.
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Quality and timeliness
Typical turnaround is around 20 working days from submission to decision, setting a national benchmark for speed and rigour.
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Extensive experience
Over 11,000 studies reviewed since 2004, including ~40% of all CTN clinical trials in Australia
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Specialist committees
12 HRECs supported by ~150 expert members provide tailored review across clinical, device and social science studies.
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Robust digital process
Fully electronic submission and virtual collaboration allow seamless interaction and swift resolution of queries.
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Dedicated support
Pre-submission triage, a 1.8 FTE secretariat per HREC, and phone-based investigator assistance ensure high-touch service.
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Ongoing monitoring
Optional independent site monitoring and policy forums maintain consistency and continuous improvement.
Hear from our team
Hear directly from the people behind Bellberry’s independent ethics review. Our leadership team, committee members, and research partners share their experiences in shaping a culture of integrity, collaboration and care — ensuring every study we review meets the highest ethical standards.
Professor Ian Frazer AC
Bellberry Galton Board
Professor Ian Frazer AC
Bellberry Galton Board
Professor Ian Frazer AC
Bellberry Galton Board
Professor Ian Frazer AC
Bellberry Galton Board
Professor Ian Frazer AC
Bellberry Galton Board
Professor Ian Frazer AC
Bellberry Galton Board