This Research Ethics & Integrity framework outlines the principles and standards that guide research, evaluation, and advisory activities undertaken by Bainbridge Consulting.
It applies to all personnel, contractors, and collaborators involved in research and evaluation activities, including commissioned work undertaken for government, not-for-profit, and other organisational clients.
This framework supports ethical, transparent, and evidence-based practice across all stages of the research lifecycle.
Bainbridge Consulting is guided by the following principles:
Respect for persons and communities
Informed and voluntary participation
Minimisation of harm and unintended consequences
Integrity in research design, analysis, and reporting
Fairness, inclusion, and cultural sensitivity
Accountability in decision-making and evidence use
Where research involves direct participation by individuals, we seek to ensure participation is:
Informed
Voluntary
Appropriately documented where required
Capable of withdrawal where practicable and appropriate
Participants are provided with information relevant to the purpose, nature, and expected use of the research activity.
We take reasonable steps to identify and manage ethical risks associated with research activities.
Additional safeguards may apply where activities involve:
Vulnerable individuals or communities
Culturally sensitive contexts
Health, trauma, or lived experience information
Small or identifiable participant groups
Research activities are designed to minimise unnecessary burden, distress, or risk to participants.
Bainbridge Consulting is committed to maintaining integrity throughout the research and evaluation process.
This includes:
Using methods appropriate to the research objective
Accurately representing evidence and findings
Disclosing material limitations where relevant
Avoiding fabrication, falsification, or misleading interpretation
Maintaining appropriate independence and professional judgement
Findings are not intentionally manipulated to satisfy predetermined outcomes.
Research activities are conducted in a manner consistent with applicable privacy, confidentiality, and data governance obligations.
Personal and sensitive information is handled in accordance with our:
Privacy Policy
Data Use & Research Governance
Information Security controls
We recognise the importance of culturally safe and respectful engagement practices.
Where relevant, research activities should consider:
Cultural context
Community expectations
Accessibility and inclusion
Respectful engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities
Ethical considerations are integrated throughout project planning, delivery, analysis, and reporting.
Where significant ethical uncertainty or elevated participant risk exists, additional review or external specialist advice may be sought.
This framework is reviewed periodically to ensure alignment with evolving research practice, governance expectations, and applicable legal obligations.
Version: 5.0 - Research Governance Version
Last Updated: 1 May 2026