The Research Ethics and Access Committee
The Research Ethics and Access Committee (REAC) provides guidance to researchers wishing to conduct research on traditional Aboriginal lands or waters in the Kimberley, with Kimberley Aboriginal communities, and/or with the Kimberley Land Council.
Guidelines for researchers
If external parties or prospective researchers are keen to work with Kimberley Aboriginal people, to conduct research, or to film on country, they must formally request to do so through REAC.
The KLC Intellectual Property and Traditional Knowledge Policy (IP & TK)
The KLC IP & TK Policy has been endorsed by the KLC and REAC and is designed to set standards for how research is conducted. Research must observe the following aims:
- Respect Kimberley Aboriginal peoples’ values and customary obligations
- Respect Kimberley Aboriginal peoples’ right to self determination
- Acknowledge Kimberley Aboriginal peoples’ rights to natural and cultural resources
- Recognise the rights of Kimberley Aboriginal people to their Aboriginal cultural and intellectual property; and
- Ensure that Kimberley Aboriginal people benefit from research conducted on their land and in their communities.
Prospective researchers should also read the Relevant KLC Policies page prior to submitting requests.
