Research participants
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Some particular questions and other considerations are:
What is informed consent?
Informed consent enables Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health participants to be fully aware of the proposed scope of a health research project, what processes are involved, and how data and information will be collected and shared. This may require the researcher to simplify the health research language used, to provide visual/audio supports, and to consult with key community representatives including Elders. Once a trusting relationship has been established, an appropriate visual/audio recording or a written record of consent should be obtained.
Acknowledging roles in the research partnership
A good partnership should reach agreement about the identification of individuals involved in the research, and the appropriate acknowledgment of those who took part in any publication. Where the contribution has been significant, the researcher should consider joint authorship with community members.
Is this study necessary? Has the research already been conducted elsewhere?
What are the ongoing requirements expected of participants?
Has clear information been provided on the process for dispute resolution?
The National Health and Medical Research Council's Ethical conduct in research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and communities: Guidelines for researchers and stakeholders and Keeping research on track II, both updated and republished in 2018, provide clear guidelines on health research involving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Primarily created for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members and organisations, these texts aim to assist you in: