Southern Cross University is a dynamic institution dedicated to changing lives through revolutionary learning and world-class research. With campuses in the stunning Northern Rivers, Coffs Harbour, and the Gold Coast, we are deeply connected to our communities and committed to driving positive change.

Volunteering at Southern Cross University is more than just giving back—it’s about shaping the future. Whether supporting ethical research, mentoring students, or contributing your expertise, our volunteers play a vital role in creating meaningful outcomes for our university and the wider community. Join us and be part of something bigger!

As a valued representative of the local Northern Rivers New South Wales or Southeast Queensland community, as a healthcare professional or a community leader who performs a pastoral care role, or a practicing lawyer, Southern Cross University’s Senior Deputy Vice Chancellor would like to hear your voice on the Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC).

The HREC is responsible for approving all of Southern Cross University’s proposed research projects involving human participants. Sharing your perspectives as a healthcare professional, as a community member, or community leader, on this research informs how it is run, which will positively impact our local community and be felt at state, national and global level.

We’re currently looking for healthcare professionals (including nurses, counsellors, or allied health professionals), community members, community leaders who perform a pastoral care role in the community and qualified lawyers (as defined in Section 5.1.30(b), (c), (d) or (e) of the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research 2023) to join the HREC, and would love to hear from you if you are interested and eligible. What would I need to do? • Attend a 3.5-hour meeting at a Southern Cross University Lismore campus and/or online once per month on a Monday afternoon • Maintain this commitment for the three-year tenure of your membership • Review and provide recommendations for human research ethics applications based on your expertise and in accordance with Section 5 of the National Statement 2023.

Full induction training will be provided to successful applicants before your first meeting. To apply, please submit an Expression of Interest and a brief CV to human.ethics@scu.edu.au or click the 'apply now'