• Involves the use of existing collections of data or records that contain only non-identifiable data.
• Data being collected and analysed for the sole purpose of identifying areas for improvement (see clinical governance process)
• The use of data where consent was provided by the participant to use the data for secondary purposes.
• If the project meets the definition of activities outlined under the Clinical Governance Improvement Pathway.

Research that:

• Meets definition of low-risk research as outlined in national statement (research in which the only foreseeable risk is one of discomfort)
• Does not involved any participant groups exempt from low-risk research
• Does not request a waiver of consent.
• Research that involves comparisons of two or more health interventions conducted under routine clinical practice conditions (i.e., comparative effectiveness research)
• Data collected that potentially infringes on the privacy or professional reputation of participants, providers or organisations.
• Secondary use of data consistent with the primary purpose of collection
• Information collected beyond that which is collected routinely.
• The use of identifiable clinical data for education or research purposes where the patient has provided explicit consent
• Projects using surveys or basic short interviews.
• Requires an acknowledgement letter for publication purposes.

• Research studies that meet the definition of more than low risk as defined in the National Statement (where the risk, even if unlikely, is more serious than discomfort).
• Research requires a waiver of consent request to collect health and medical information.

HREC level of review