Following on the NHMRC National Statement, the Committee is of the belief the key test of proportionality and whether inducement or influence could impair the voluntary character.

"1.10 The consent of a person to participate in research must not be subject to any coercion, or to any inducement or influence which could impair its voluntary character."
http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/publications/humans/part1.htm#Consent (Section 1.10 [Coercion, inducements]

The Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) will consider all proposals on a case by case basis. Researchers are encouraged to consider their application for participant's reimbursement on the basis of the following priniciples:

• Absolute amount proposed
• Procedural justice i.e. game of chance/draw
• Proportionality
• Scheme for reimbursement i.e. travel expenses

The Committee recommends that monetary values should not be advertised in any "flyers/advertisements" for the research, except to say that 'expenses will be covered' (if that is the case).

Lottery tickets

The Committee does not normally approve the offer of lottery tickets and the like when the potential prize is very substantial.

Rewards/Expenses

In general the Committee will approve reimbursement for expenses and incidental costs i.e. travel expenses, telephone calls, meals

The Committee recognise that in some studies, and in some circumstances it may be appropriate to offer tokens of appreciation (i.e. movie ticket/s) to potential participants.

Course Credits

Student course credits are acceptable for those courses such as Psychology where some research experience as a participant is encouraged. Such course credits must always be able to be obtained in some other way if students do not wish to volunteer for any of the proposed research options.