Strengthening Australia's research integrity system

Misconduct in research is a serious issue and is probably increasing. To grapple fully with this, to protect the reputation of honest researchers and to improve public accountability, the Australian research integrity system needs strengthening. The Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research must be revised to mandate how research institutions investigate allegations of research misconduct. The Australian Research Integrity Committee must be empowered by government to scrutinise any institution's investigation, demand a re-investigation when needed at the institution's expense and to report publicly on the incidence of allegations of misconduct and the outcomes of all investigations.