Review of Human Tissue Laws

The Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) has been asked to inquire into human tissue laws. 

The Terms of Reference for this Inquiry ask the ALRC to explore matters including: 

• Donation, retrieval and transplant of human cells, tissues and organs
• Consent arrangements
• Regulation of ‘schools of anatomy’ and donation for education purposes
• Frameworks across all Australian jurisdictions relating to donation and retrieval of cells, tissues and organs from living and deceased persons
• Cost recovery, financial and other considerations relating to manufacture and provision of tissue 

The ALRC is also asked to consider: 

• Equity and ethical approaches to improving access to cell, tissue and organ transplantation
• Contemporary and emerging technologies and practices
• International experience and approaches 

The ALRC has been asked to provide its final report to the Attorney-General by 16 August 2026.

Contact us:

For enquiries, please email humantissue@alrc.gov.au.