Institutional Biosafety

A range of teaching and research activities involving the construction and/or propagation of viroids, viruses, cells or organisms of novel genotype produced by genetic manipulation are undertaken at USQ.

As these activities are either unlikely to occur in nature, or likely to pose a hazard to public health or to the environment, there is a need to ensure the health and well being of staff, students, the USQ community, including visitors, and the environment. This is achieved through risk management and approval processes adopted by faculties, administrative and operational divisions.

Staff members who propose to use genetic manipulation techniques in research or teaching must submit a proposal to the USQ’s Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) prior to the commencement of any studies.

Gene Technology Regulations

USQ must comply with the Gene Technology Act 2000 (Cwlth) and the Gene Technology Regulations 2001 administered by the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR). These regulations cover all dealings with genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Dealings as defined by the Gene Technology Act 2000 (Cwlth) include:

conducting experiments with GMOs
making, developing, producing, manufacturing GMOs
breeding
propagating
using the GMOs in manufacturing of non GM products
growing, raising, culturing GMOs
importing GMOs
includes the possession, use, transport or disposal of the GMO for purposes of, or in the course of a dealing mentioned in 1 to 7.

Application process and advice

Prior to submitting a proposal to use genetic manipulation techniques to the IBC, applicants should contact the Chair of the IBC to discuss their proposal. All projects involving GMOs or materials subject to the OGTR regulations must proceed via the IBC.

Training sessions

It is mandatory for staff and students involved in GMO research or using certified facilities to attend training on gene technology procedures. Training sessions are held each semester. Further details are available from The Chair, IBC.

Further information

Further information about biosafety is available from:

Initial enquires regarding guidance with submitting a proposal please email ethics@usq.edu.au telephone +61 7 4631 2690.