Upholding Integrity in Scientific Review
Australia Updates AI Rules for Science Grants
ARC and NHMRC mandate human oversight while allowing AI for support tasks in grant applications.
A computer screen showing a scientific grant application with a subtle digital AI overlay, representing new Australian research policies.
Photo: Avantgarde News
The Australian Research Council (ARC) and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) issued a joint policy update on April 28, 2026 [1]. This guidance outlines how generative AI may be used in grant applications and peer reviews [2]. The policy takes effect immediately and permits AI for practical support tasks [3].
The agencies mandate that human judgment must remain central to scientific assessment and academic integrity [1][2]. While AI can help with drafting, researchers remain responsible for the accuracy of their submissions [3]. This update aims to protect the quality of Australian research while acknowledging new technologies [1].
Editorial notes
Transparency note
AI assisted drafting. Human edited and reviewed.
- AI assisted
- Yes
- Human review
- Yes
- Last updated
Risk assessment
Reviewed for sourcing quality and editorial consistency.
Sources
- 1.↗
arc.gov.au
https://www.arc.gov.au/news-and-publications/media/arc-releases-updated-policy-use-generative-artificial-intelligence-grant-assessment
- 2.↗
nhmrc.gov.au
https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/about-us/news-centre
- 3.↗
miragenews.com
https://www.miragenews.com/arc-updates-ai-policy-for-grant-assessment-1662994/
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Avantgarde News Desk covers upholding integrity in scientific review and editorial analysis for Avantgarde News.