The community expects research to be conducted responsibly, ethically and with integrity. The Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research (the Code) articulates the broad principles that characterise an honest, ethical and conscientious research culture. It establishes a framework for responsible research conduct that provides a foundation for high-quality research, credibility and community trust in the research endeavour. It outlines the expectations for the conduct of research in Australia or research conducted under the auspices of Australian institutions.

The primary responsibility for ensuring the integrity of research lies with individual researchers and institutions. The Code sets out principles and responsibilities that both researchers and institutions are expected to follow when conducting research. Critical to this endeavour are the moral leadership and espoused values of the institution and the shared values and expectations of honesty and integrity that characterise an institution’s leadership and culture.