How we manage research complaints
We take complaints about research and ethics decisions seriously. We aim to resolve issues quickly and fairly.
You can raise a concern with us at any time. If you’re not satisfied with our response, you can lodge a formal complaint.
We handle all complaints in a fair, transparent and accountable way.
Appeal a human research ethics committee decision
Anyone can appeal a decision made by the Darling Downs Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC). This includes researchers, participants and other stakeholders.
How to appeal
Email your appeal to the HREC Chair.
DDHHS-Research@health.qld.gov.au
They’ll review your appeal and the research ethics and governance office will tell you the outcome.
If you’re not satisfied
You can escalate your complaint to the Health Service Chief Executive.
DDHHS@health.qld.gov.au
The Chief Executive may appoint a review committee. The committee’s decision is final.
Appeal a research governance decision
You can appeal a decision made to approve or refuse authorisation for a research project. You can also complain about how an approved project is run.
How to appeal
Email your complaint.
DDHHS-Research@health.qld.gov.au
The research ethics and governance office will review your complaint. They’ll make a recommendation to the Chief Executive or delegate and will notify you of the outcome.
If you’re not satisfied
You can escalate your complaint to the Health Service Chief Executive.
DDHHS@health.qld.gov.au
The Chief Executive may appoint a review committee. The committee’s decision is final.
For researchers - concerns about research conduct
If you’re concerned about any research we’re doing or research being done by an external organisation at our site, you can:
- talk to a research integrity advisor
- make a formal complaint.
To talk with a research integrity officer, raise a concern or complaint about research conducted at Darling Downs Health, email DDHHS-Research@health.qld.gov.au.
The National Health and Medical Research Council has further information about roles and responsibilities of institutions and funding agencies on research integrity.
Consumer complaints
You can give feedback or make a complaint about research at any Darling Downs Health facility.
Research ethics and governance office
- Ph: 07 4699 8449 or 0448 014 856
- Email: DDHHS-Research@health.qld.gov.au
Consumer liaison service
If you’re taking part in research, you can also find the contact details on your participant information and consent form (PICF).