National Measurement Institute

1
National Measurement Institute

• A new Australian Government initiative for
  science and innovation
• Presentation to
• Coordination Committee on Science and Technology
• 5 November 2004
• Robert Crick
• Head of Analytical Division
• Dept of Industry Tourism and Resources

2
What is the NMI?

• Functionally - the integration of the Australian
  Governments role in physical, chemical,
  biological and legal metrology.
• Administratively the amalgamation of the
  National Measurement Laboratory, the National
  Standards Commission and the Australian
  Government Analytical Laboratories

3
NMI Concept

• Chief Scientists 2001 report A Chance to Change
  provided impetus
• Benefits from exploiting the synergies
• Better service to government and industry
• A nationally and internationally recognised
  centre of excellence in both science and service
  delivery

4
NMI Creation

• Corporate Governance Arrangements
• Amendments to the National Measurement Act 1960
• The chief metrologist
• Negotiation of new certified agreement
• Structure and operations

5
NMIs Role

• Peak metrology body in Australia
• Party to mutual recognition arrangements
• Underpins competitiveness, investment attraction,
  market access
• Maintain and develop national and traceable
  standards
• Technology transfer and collaboration
• Research
• Commercial role

6
NMI Vision and Mission

• Vision to be at the leading edge of measurement
  science increase Australias ability to succeed
  in the global environment
• Mission to deliver world-class measurement
  standards and services that enhance innovation,
  increase industry competitiveness, facilitate
  trade and improve the well-being of all
  Australians

7
Opportunities for the Future

• Expertise and infrastructure to support
  nanotechnology-based industry
• Limited capacity now
• Lead times and resources need to be factored in
• Support for biotech industries through biological
  reference standards
• Synergies between physical and chemical/biological
  metrology
• Nano-scale sensors to detect biological activity

8
Open for Business

• CEO appointed Dr Barry Inglis
• HQ established at Lindfield, Sydney
• Operations at Pymble and Lindfield in NSW
  Clayton and South Melbourne in Vic and Cottesloe
  in Perth.
• Inherits close cooperation with all States and
  Territories and Commonwealth entities
• Key agenda to develop this further (eg standards,
  national trade measurement, food inspection etc)
  

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