South Australian Council on Reproductive Technology

The South Australian Council on Reproductive Technology (SACRT) was established under the provisions of the Reproductive Technology Act (SA) 1998 to address the medical, social, scientific, ethical, legal and moral issues arising from reproductive technology.

Eleven people, each reflecting high levels of expertise and experience from different sectors of the community, make up the SACRT membership.

The first Council was appointed in an interim capacity in 1987 and began its official three year term in 1988 after the Reproductive Technology Act was proclaimed. 

Once established the SACRT gave priority to the development of the Code of Ethical Practice in two parts: Clinical Practice and Research. These codes are now implemented.

In developing the Code of Ethical Practice and in addressing its other functions the SACRT has been mindful of the Act’s section 10(2) which states:

The welfare of any child to be born in consequence of an artificial fertilisation procedure must be treated as of paramount importance, and accepted as a fundamental principle in the formulation of the code of ethical practice.

The Council has undertaken a range of activities in order to fulfil the functions outlined in the legislation. These have included public meetings, forums and consideration of research into the social consequences of reproductive technology.

While the SACRT is an independent statutory authority, strong links exist between the Council and the South Australian Department of Health.  The governing Acts of the SACRT fall within the portfolio of the Minister for Health and Minister Assisting the Premier in Social Inclusion.  The Minister currently responsible for this portfolio is the Hon Lea Stevens MP.

The Council produces a report annually for the Minister and a quarterly newsletter about current issues around reproductive technology.  Extracts of the Annual Report and an outline of the contents of the most recent edition of the newsletter Reproduction Matters can be accessed through this web site.