Researchers
Bellberry provides independent, high-quality human research ethics review to help you submit and manage your research with confidence. From registration through the review process, our team will guide you at every step while safeguarding participants and research integrity.
Independent ethics review you can trust
Bellberry is Australia’s largest reviewer of clinical trials, responsible for around 40% of the nation’s TGA-registered clinical trials 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.
12 NHMRC-certified HRECs
Studies reviewed nationwide
Gold-seal accreditation
Typical decision time
Broad expertise across research disciplines
Bellberry partners with organisations conducting clinical, behavioural and social research across Australia. We also offer two specialist services; providing review of animal health studies through our Animal Ethics Committee (AEC) and a Consumer & Community Advisory panel (CCAP) which helps ensure research is participant-centred.
Clinical Drug Studies
Independent review to accelerate new drug or device development while ensuring participant safety.
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Social and Behavioural Sciences and Evaluations
Ethics oversight for research examining behaviour, social integrations and evaluating programs and interventions.
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Medical Device Trials
Assessing the safety, performance and effectiveness of new or modified medical devices.
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Animal Health Studies
Crucial research involving animal health or human health that underpins research involving human participants.
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Consumer & Community Studies
Specialist review of studies at the design stage to ensure the participant perspective is considered.
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AI & Digital Health
Intelligent technologies and algorithms that support decision making.
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Public Health Submissions
We offer pathways for all public health institutions which make the review process seamless.
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If your study type is not listed here please contact us.
Trusted by researchers across Australia
Hear from the researchers and institutions who rely on Bellberry for fast, independent, high-quality ethics review.
Take the next steps with confidence
Our structured application process helps you move from concept to approval efficiently. Each step is supported by clear guidance and access to our team. Visit How to Apply
All applications for review are submitted through our eProtocol online system. Before an application can be started, a registration request to be an eProtocol user will need to be submitted and processed. There is a short video guide available here.
Prepare all the relevant study documentation including Protocol, Investigator’s Brochure, Participant Information and Consent Form, Advertising Material, HREC Indemnities
Complete the application from in eProtocol and upload all your study related documentation. There is a short video guide available here.
Your application is reviewed by one of our expert HREC Committees. HREC meetings are held weekly on a Wednesday. There is a short video guide available here.
You will receive the Committees decision including further comments and questions on the Fruday after the HREC meeting. There is a short video guide available here.
Opportunity to respond to any questions or requested study modifications through eProtocol. There is a short video guide available here.
Guidance & Resources
Templates, policies, and checkcardss to guide you before, during and after review.
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Multi-centre Trials
Single ethical review for multi-site studies to reduce duplication and streamline national research.
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Public Submissions
Opportunities for the public and stakeholders to comment on policy changes or provide feedback on research-related matters.
Learn MoreExpertise, 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.
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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.
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.
Get answers to common queries
Whether you’re preparing your first submission or managing amendments, these answers cover the most common scenarios and link to detailed guidance when needed.
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Bellberry’s goal is to provide high-quality and timely review. From the Wednesday submission closing date, applications are usually allocated to an HREC meeting within two weeks. The committee aims to return its decision within approximately 20 working days of submission (excluding any time the application spends back with the investigator for clarifications). This turnaround is recognised as one of the fastest in Australia and supports swift study start-up while maintaining rigorous ethical oversight
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Still have questions? We’re here to help.
Browse our FAQs page or contact us for helpful guidance and detailed information.
Ready to start or need advice?
If you’d like to speak with a Bellberry team member about your study or need help preparing an application, our customer service specialists are here to assist.
