AbstractAustralian researchers are in the forefront of research into human embryos but now find themselves on a collision course with regulation and legislation. Is it ethical to experiment with human embryos? Should only ‘spare’ embryos be used rather than developing them specially for experimentation? These and other moral judgement questions are addressed as well as investigating the position of the researchers and the possible effects on them of restrictions being imposed.Three major concerns force the author to conclude that regulation and legislation are necessary. They are: the harm caused to the women donating the embryos; embryo experimentation will provide the expertise required for eugenic practices; concern for the embryo itself.