How many animals are used for research and teaching in South Australia?
Last year approximately 370,000 animals were reported as being used for research and teaching purposes in South Australia in 2007. Most of these animals were observed with minor interference. Statistics describing animal use in research and teaching are collected and collated annually in South Australia. It is anticipated that national collations will be possible in the near future. At the end of each calendar year, Animal Ethics Committees are required to provide a report to the Minister, who has legislative responsibility for animal welfare. This report must include a summary of the activities of the committee over the year and statistics relating to the animals used in projects the committee has approved. This requirement had been met since the Animal Welfare Act 1985 was gazetted in 1985. Statistics are collected on the broad purpose of the project under five categories: • the understanding of human or animal biology; • the maintenance and improvement of human or animal health and
