How to Apply
Learn how to apply through Bellberry’s robust ethics review process. Our step-by-step approach ensures clarity and support at each stage of your submission journey.
How the application process works
This short video provides a clear, high-level overview of the Bellberry application process. It’s designed to give you confidence before you begin, showing how each stage fits together—from registration through to approval.
How to Apply
Membership is offered through an Expression of Interest process. Submitting an expression does not guarantee a position, but your details will be reviewed and kept on file for future opportunities.
- Review the information on this page to confirm your eligibility.
- Complete the Committee Member Application Form.
- Submit your application and CV to the Member Team. Expressions of Interest are reviewed by Bellberry’s Committee Management team and HREC Chairs.
- Applicants whose expertise aligns with current needs will be contacted to discuss next steps.
If you would like further information, please call the Member Team on (08) 8361 3222 or email recruitment@bellberry.com.au.
Our Purpose
Bellberry Limited exists to promote and improve the welfare of research participants and the quality, efficiency and effectiveness of research.
We do this by:
- Operating independent Human Research Ethics Committees (HRECs) that review research proposals across Australia.
- Providing robust governance and oversight in accordance with the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research (2018).
- Supporting researchers, institutions and sponsors to achieve timely, high-quality outcomes without compromising participant safety.
- Reinvesting all surpluses into initiatives that advance research ethics, education, and the broader research community.
PRAXIS Australia provides high-quality, relevant and accessible training to build the confidence and capability of those working in clinical trials, research and ethics.
PRAXIS Australia is delighted to provide significant savings exclusively to Bellberry staff, members and affiliates.
You can save 20% on the full price of any of our training offers, including all online courses, HREC courses, and live virtual workshops.
To access these offers, enter the exclusive partner code BELLBERRY25 when enrolling. Enrol now to access this offer. Prior to enrolling please contact the Member Team to discuss financial support available.
Please remember to let the Member Team know of any relevant ethics education activities you undertake or view online, so we can update your education attendance record.
The application process, step by step
Do I Need Independent Review?
Determine whether your research requires review by a Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) under the National Statement.
Determine whether your research requires review by a Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) under the National Statement.
- Decide whether the research meets the requirements of the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research (2025) and is ethically acceptable before it begins.
- Does the research have more than a low level of risk as defined in the National Statement Section 2, Chapter 2.1?
Yes – the research must be reviewed by an HREC.
No – the research may be reviewed under other processes described in the National Statement Chapter 5.2, paragraphs 5.1.18 to 5.1.21; or exempted from ethical review as described in the National Statement paragraphs 5.1.22 and 5.1.23.
Further information can be accessed here: LER G1 Review Pathways.
Please visit the NHMRC website for information regarding quality assurance or improvement activities, clinical audit activities etc.
Register in eProtocol
Set up your eProtocol user account before you can start an application.
Set up your eProtocol user account before you can start an application.
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Applications
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Milestone Applications
Annual/Progress Milestone Reports
A site-specific MAR F4.1.1 Progress Report form must be completed by each site and included in the Milestone Annual/Progress Report submission in REGIS.
Lead Site in REGIS:
- Request each site included in the REGIS application to complete and provide the MAR F4.1.1 Progress Report. If there are any issues, the site/s can email the form to the EPCT team at epct@bellberry.com.au.
- Complete the Annual/Progress Report in REGIS and upload the MAR F4.1.1 Progress Report forms for all sites.
Multi-centre site in REGIS with lead site in REGIS:
- Complete the MAR F4.1.1 Progress Report form for your site and provide it to the site that will be submitting the milestone in REGIS. If there are any issues, the form can be emailed to the EPCT team at epct@bellberry.com.au.
Multi-centre site in REGIS with lead site in eProtocol:
- Where the lead site is in eProtocol rather than REGIS the lead site in eProtocol will only submit their own site-specific Final Report in eProtocol.
- One of the sites in the REGIS application will need to be the submitting site and submit the report on behalf of themselves and any other REGIS sites following the instructions above.
Ethics approval expiry
Ethics approval will expire on the day of the approval end date. The Annual/Progress Report in REGIS should be submitted with the MAR F4.1.1 Progress Report form prior to the ethics approval expiry date to allow time for review and approval.
If there are any issues with submitting the Annual/Progress report in REGIS prior to the ethics expiry date, please contact the EPCT team at EPCT@bellberry.com.au.
If ethics approval expires, researchers must ensure:
- All research activities stop.
- New enrolment of participants does not occur.
- If the site has participant visits scheduled, the HREC will decide if it is in the best interests of individual participants to continue participating due to an over-riding safety concern or ethical issue.
- The site must outline what participant visits and other study-related conduct have occurred in the period between the report being due and the submission of the notification.
Final Milestone Reports
In addition to the REGIS Milestone Final Report submission, a site-specific MAR F4.1.2 Final Report form must be completed by each closing site and included in the submission.
Lead site in REGIS:
- Where all sites in the REGIS application are closing out:
- All sites will need to complete the MAR F4.1.2 Final Report form and provide to the submitting site, if there are any issues the report can be sent via email to the EPCT team at epct@bellberry.com.au.
- The submitting site will need to submit the Milestone Final Report in REGIS and upload the MAR F4.1.2 Final Report for each site.
- Where some but not all sites in the REGIS application are closing out:
- The closing site/s will need to complete the MAR F4.1.2 Final Report form and provide to the submitting site, if there are any issues the report can be sent via email to the EPCT team at epct@bellberry.com.au.
- The submitting site will need to submit a General Amendment notifying the HREC of the closing sites and upload the MAR F4.1.2 Final Report forms for each closing site.
Lead site in eProtocol:
- Where the lead site is in eProtocol rather than REGIS the lead site will only submit their own site-specific Final Report in eProtocol.
- One of the sites in the REGIS application will need to be the submitting site and submit the Milestone Final Report on behalf of all closing REGIS sites following the instructions above.
Guidance
Please see the below link to the Bellberry progress and final report guidance document:
MAR G4 Progress and Final Reports
For information on how to submit a Milestone in REGIS, refer to the below QRG:
Submitting Annual Progress or Final Report (Milestone)
For further REGIS guidance, please refer to the following link to the Quick Reference Guide web page: https://regis.health.nsw.gov.au/how-to/
Corporate Brochure
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Clinical Trial Activity Report
The Clinical Trial Activity Report presents a summary of Bellberry’s ethics review activity across all Human Research Ethics Committees (HRECs).
It highlights trends in clinical trial submissions, study types, and participant demographics, demonstrating our commitment to transparency and continual improvement.
This report is designed to inform researchers, institutions, and regulators about the scale and nature of research overseen by Bellberry each year.
NAM Workshop Summary Report
Bellberry was a key partner in the National Approach to Multi-centre (NAM) Workshop, which brought together stakeholders from across the research and ethics community to discuss national consistency in ethics review.
The Summary Report captures the discussions, outcomes, and agreed actions from the workshop, providing a roadmap for continued collaboration and harmonisation.
Current Fees (as of Jan 2025)*
| Item | Current Fee* (ex. GST) | Current Fee* (inc. GST) |
|---|---|---|
| New Protocol | – | – |
| New HREC Review Application | $6,500 | $7,150 |
| New Phase 1 HREC Review Application | $9,000 | $9,900 |
| Multi-centre Applications (per centre) | $3,600 | $3,960 |
| Extension Phase and Lower Risk Studies | $3,600 | $3,960 |
| Multi-site Applications (ie Tele-health clinical trials – per site) | $250 | $275 |
| Major Amendment | – | – |
| Protocol Amendment (per submission) | $900 | $990 |
| Investigator Brochure Update (per submission) | $900 | $990 |
| Substantial Amendment | $6,500 | $7,150 |
| Minor Amendment | – | – |
| Administrative Change | – | – |
| PICF Amendment | – | – |
| Updating participant documents (e.g recruitment/advertising) | – | – |
| Other Reporting | – | – |
| Safety Reporting | – | – |
| Serious Breach Notification | – | – |
| Progress Reporting | – | – |
| Final Reporting | – | – |
*Bellberry reserves the right to alter these fees.
Current Fees (as of Jan 2025)*
*Bellberry reserves the right to alter these fees.
New Protocol
Current Fee* (ex.GST)
–
Current Fee* (inc.GST)
–
New HREC Review Application
Current Fee* (ex.GST)
$6,500
Current Fee* (inc.GST)
$7,150
Multi-site Applications (ie Tele-health clinical trials – per site)
Current Fee* (ex.GST)
$250
Current Fee* (inc.GST)
$275
Major Amendment
Current Fee* (ex.GST)
–
Current Fee* (inc.GST)
–
| Date | Update number | Overview of content | Document changes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr-26 |
Update 36
|
|
|
| Mar-26 |
Update 35
|
|
|
| Feb-26 |
Update 34 (33 void)
|
|
|
| Jan-26 |
Update 32
|
|
|
| Dec-25 |
Update 31
|
|
|
| Nov-25 |
Update 30
|
|
No |
| Oct-25 |
Update 29
|
|
|
| Sep-25 |
Update 28
|
|
No |
| Aug-25 |
Update 27
|
|
No |
| Jul-25 |
Update 26
|
|
No |
Update 36 Apr-26
- Upholding Participants’ Rights: Complaints to the HREC
- Consent Updates & Re-Consent
- Investigator’s Brochure & Annual Safety Report
Document changes:
- LER G2 AI Research Guidance
- BA G18 Participant ID Card Guidance
- BA F1.1.7 PICF Submission Pathways
- BA G12 Version Control & Document Naming Conventions
Update 35 Mar-26
- What documents does the HREC need?
- HREC composition listings
- FDA draft guidance on NAMs
- NHMRC guidance on PICFs
- Protocol number changes
Document changes:
- BA G1 Submission requirements & responsibilities
- BA G5 participant information & consent form
- BA F5.1.2 Sample consent form
- BA G15 Insurance & Indemnities
Update 34 (33 void) Feb-26
- Principal Investigator CVs
- Study related submissions via eProtocol
Document changes:
- BA G14 Pregnancy & sexual health
- BA F14.1.2 Pregnancy & pregnant partner data release template
- BA G8 CVs and Investigator Qualifications
Update 32 Jan-26
- Completing the Sponsor page of your HREC application
- Inclusion of side effects in study documentation
- GCP R3 Update
Document changes:
- BA F1.1.12 Site specific clauses template
Previous Events
Please note: content of all videos is confidential and for Bellberry use only. Please do not share these resources with anyone outside Bellberry.
Thursday 28th August 2025, 5.15pm
Bellberry Ltd, 123 Glen Osmond Road, Eastwood
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Thursday 27th March 2025, 5.15pm
Bellberry Ltd, 123 Glen Osmond Road, Eastwood
How and why reviewing social science research is (a little bit) different
Senior Professor Annette Braunack-Mayer
Secondary data sharing, flexible trial delivery, and beyond – current CT:IQ initiatives
Dr Lisa Eckstein
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander research update
Michael Larkin
Member Conference Feedback 2024
Please click on the link here for the conference feedback for the following conferences in 2024.
- Intensive Research Ethics Course – Stephen Kyranis
- Medicines Management Conference Advanced Pharmacy Australia – Peter Hayball
- ASCEPT-AFPF-APSA Joint Congress – Kellie Charles and Lorraine Webster
- ACTA Clinical Trials registries Symposium – June Challen
Other Available Roles
Events Coordinator – Adelaide, SA
Part-Time
Bellberry is seeking an experienced Events Coordinator to lead and coordinate operational activities across our ethics review services.
Project Officer – Adelaide, SA
Full-Time
Bellberry is seeking an experienced Project Officer to lead and coordinate operational activities across our ethics review services.
Research Officer (12-Month Parental Leave Cover) – Adelaide, SA
Contract
Bellberry is seeking an experienced Research Officer to lead and coordinate operational activities across our ethics review services.
Downloads and Resources
The following Bellberry documents provide more detailed information about participating in research and can help guide your decision:
TP G1 — General Information on Trials (PDF)
Overview of how research and clinical trials are conducted, including trial phases and participant safeguards.
TP F1.1.1 — Information to Consider Before Entering a Trial (PDF)
Outlines what you should be told and understand before agreeing to participate.
TP F1.1.2 — Questions to Ask (PDF)
A practical checklist to help guide discussions with your research team.
Code of Conduct & Policy Documents
Governance and Behaviour Framework
Key Guidance & Regulatory Links
Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research
Fundamental principles and expectations for ethical research in Australia.
Learn MoreAustralian Clinical Trial Handbook
A practical resource for conducting and managing clinical trials.
Learn MoreAustralian Clinical Trials Website
National portal for clinical trial information, registration, and participant resources.
Learn MoreConsumers Health Forum of Australia – Consumer Guide to Clinical Trials
Plain-language guide to help consumers understand and engage in clinical research.
Learn MoreNational PICF Template Resources
Standard participant information and consent form templates for use in human research.
Learn MoreCurrent Vacancies
Operations Manager – Adelaide, SA | Full-time
Bellberry is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead and coordinate operational activities across our ethics review services.
This area contains documents that aim to give a brief overview of the review pathways available to those seeking ethical review for human research, quality assurance (QA) activities, and low and negligible risk (LNR) research.
Learn More
Once you have determined your research pathway, you are ready to apply to Bellberry. This area includes guidance and forms that cover most facets of what is required for your application.
Learn More
After you have received approval, Bellberry has ongoing monitoring requirements. This area has guidance and forms related to areas such as progress & final reports, safety, protocol violations, site monitoring.
Learn More
Orientation
Learn about Bellberry’s HREC processes, meeting structure, and how your role contributes to ethical oversight.
Learn More
Member Responsibilities
Understand expectations, duties, and the standards of conduct that guide all Bellberry members.
Learn More
eProtocol Help
Access tutorials, user guides, and troubleshooting for Bellberry’s online submission and review system.
Learn More
Education
View professional development opportunities, CPD sessions, and internal learning materials.
Learn More
Policies & Guidance
Browse key governance documents, frameworks, and ethical guidelines that inform committee practice.
Learn More
Site Information & Monitoring
Access monitoring frameworks, site visit information, and compliance reporting resources.
Learn More
HREC Member Newsletters
Stay up to date with the latest announcements, committee insights, and organisational updates.
Learn More
Operations Updates
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Learn MoreCertification and Accreditation
All Bellberry committees are NHMRC-certified under the National Approach to Single Ethical Review of Multi-Centre Research and are listed on the NHMRC website.
Bellberry also maintains AAHRPP accreditation, demonstrating international alignment with the highest research ethics and participant safety standards.
Transparency and Continuous Improvement
To promote transparency and public accountability, Bellberry publishes:
- Listings of Waivers of Consent granted by its committees.
- Information on the TGA CTN Scheme, explaining how our HRECs review clinical trials before notification to the TGA.
Expression of Interest Form
Please complete the form to register your interest in joining one of our committees.
Explore a career at Bellberry.
Join our team of professionals making a difference in Australian research ethics.
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.
AEC members are remunerated for their time and contribution.
CCAP members are remunerated for their time and contribution.
Not necessarily. CCAP membership is built around lived experience, rather than formal qualifications. If you, or someone close to you, has experience as a patient, carer or family member affected by a health issue, that’s the most important thing you bring to the panel.
Bellberry provides an induction program for all new members, along with ongoing mentoring and training, so you’ll never be reviewing a study without support.
You’ll review study protocols and documents from a participant’s point of view, considering whether the research is fair, practical and designed with people like you in mind. You’ll provide feedback before studies go to full ethical review.
Still have questions? We’re here to help.
Browse our FAQs page or contact us for helpful guidance and detailed information.
How to Apply
Understand the full application process from start to finish. This step-by-step guide shows you how to register, prepare documents, and submit your study for review.
Learn More
Guidance & Resources
Find policies, templates, and checklists to support your application. From pre-submission planning to post-approval monitoring, this hub gives you practical tools at every stage.
Learn More
Our Fees
Review the current schedule of fees for new applications, amendments, and multi-centre studies. Transparent pricing helps you plan and budget with confidence.
Learn MoreReady 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.
