Calls to end primate testing at Monash University facility

Monash University in Victoria has been breeding monkeys for research purposes for over 15 years. The facility, called the Animal Research Platform, keeps up to 850 marmosets and macaques. Researchers claim the studies aim to improve medical outcomes for humans. Recent documents reveal details about the experiments conducted at the facility. These include neurological studies and experiments involving monkeys infected with HIV. Robyn Kirby, a campaigner against primate testing, obtained internal documents through freedom of information laws, shedding light on the treatment of the animals. Kirby argues that the experiments are cruel and unnecessary. She described invasive procedures where monkeys undergo surgeries, including having their brains opened. Kirby and her group are calling for an end to such testing. Monash University stated it follows strict regulations and ethical guidelines for animal research. They emphasize that animal studies are essential for medical breakthroughs. Despite this, many are calling for more transparency in such research. Some advocates argue that alternative methods should replace animal testing. Bella Lear, a representative from Understanding Animal Research Oceania, believes that better communication is needed to avoid misinformation. She supports transparency around the use of animals in research. Others, like Georgie Purcell from the Animal Justice Party, criticize the ethical implications of using primates. She argues that funding should go towards non-invasive research methods and calls for updated approaches to medical research that do not involve harming animals.