New evidence of weakness and inconsistency in the regulation of research misconduct in Australia

Background
Public trust in research depends in part on the capacity of the system to detect and correct errors in the research record. In Australia, this task is largely entrusted to research institutions through a self-regulatory framework. The present article seeks to contribute to ongoing conversations about whether the Australian framework is fit for purpose.

Methods
Here, we assemble and analyze two sources of information that have been previously analyzed: research misconduct investigation policies at Australian Group of Eight universities (a group of Australian universities that purport to be its leading research-intensive universities) and published decisions and appeals arising from workplace disputes involving allegations of research misconduct.

Results
Together, these materials support existing concerns that universities are not adopting robust policies regarding reporting findings of misconduct and correcting the record, and that they sometimes fail to follow their own policies.

Conclusion
Claims that the current self-regulatory approach is sufficient are not supported by our evidence. These findings provide a foundation for reform, including revisions to the existing guidelines and the creation of an independent oversight body with adequate enforcement powers.