Welcome to the National Measurement Institute

The National Measurement Institute (NMI) is responsible for Australia's national infrastructure in physical, chemical, biological and legal measurements. Under the National Measurement Act 1960, NMI is responsible for coordinating Australia’s national measurement system, and for establishing, maintaining and realising Australia’s units and standards of measurement, thereby allowing Australian industry to operate competitively in a global environment.

NMI delivers essential services to the Australian economy by providing the legal and technical framework for disseminating measurement standards; working with clients in industry and government to provide measurement expertise, calibration services, chemical and  biological analyses and pattern approval testing; and supporting Australia’s standards and conformance infrastructure. 

NMI is Australia’s representative under the international measurement treaties that establish the International Committee for Weights and Measures and the International Organization of Legal Metrology. In regional measurement forums, NMI also represents Australia at the Asia Pacific Metrology Programme and the Asia-Pacific Legal Metrology Forum. NMI’s contributions in these activities are key factors in formally securing international mutual recognition of Australia’s measurement standards which, in turn, underpins the international acceptance of testing and certification of Australian commodities and products. 

In order to meet the measurement needs of government, the public, industry and scientific organisations, NMI undertakes cutting-edge research to anticipate the trends of new measurement technologies. NMI maintains a broad range of scientific and technical capabilities to fulfil its statutory responsibilities and to meet government and private sector requirements for traceability of measurements. With this expertise, NMI is well-placed to form strategic partnerships to solve measurement problems in industry and government. 

Click here for a copy of our service charter.

National Trade Measurement

Click here for more information on the transition to a national system of trade measurement by 1 July 2010.

Legislation

On 24 September the National Measurement Amendment Bill 2008 was introduced into Parliament. The purpose of the Bill is to make amendments to the National Measurement Act to provide for a national trade measurement system. Click here to access the text of the bill and its explanatory memorandum and the accompanying media release.

Servicing Licensing

A discussion paper has been prepared on licensing issues. Closing date for comments is 14 November.

11th Government Food Analysts Conference

Click here to register for the 11th Government Food Analysts Conference to be held from 22 to 24 February 2009.