The Human Genetic Commission has reported into the storage and protection of personal genetic information.

While recommending consent be sought at the outset, the commission's report gives a green light to the owners of genetic research databases using an individual's genetic profile for multiple pieces of research without having to seek their permission each time their data is used.

Forum Response: Consumers' Association

Nikki Ratcliff, senior policy advisor at the Consumers' Association, told ePolitix.com: "The commission's report contains some welcome recommendations, but questions remain over whether consumers can be fully informed if they are not given the option of an ongoing process of re-consent. Medical research offers great potential for future health and health care, but individuals should have the right to refuse certain types of research.

"Our own research shows that the public believe strongly that genetic databases should be publicly owned and that people who agree to contribute their genetic profile to a genetic database should still have the option to be kept informed of where and when their genetic data is being used."