It was founded in October 1980 by Professors Peter Singer and Helga Kuhse,[1] as the first centre in Australia devoted to bioethics, and one of the first in the world.
[2] It became well known during the 1980s as one of the leading bodies studying the ethical implications of the rapid advances in science and technology, such as in-vitro fertilisation.
[2] Today, it continues its strong focus on research, but also provides undergraduate, postgraduate and industry-based education.
In addition to their teaching and research commitments, staff from the centre also carry out consultancy work for numerous government bodies and law reform agencies, including the World Health Organization.
[3] The centre has been influential in shaping public debate on issues such as assisted reproduction, surrogate motherhood, and end-of-life decision-making.