Measurement Law Review

The Measurement Law Review is identifying aspects of Australia’s measurement framework that can be modernised, streamlined or simplified.

The review will develop reform options for the Australian Government to consider in 2021.

Review objectives

In considering Australia’s measurement framework, the review has 4 objectives:

• developing and advancing measurement activities that support Australia and its economy
• strengthening strategic measurement capabilities
• supporting confidence in measurement—domestically and internationally
• promoting innovation through a modern approach to measurement infrastructure

Terms of reference

Read the Measurement Law Review terms of reference [162KB PDF] [70KB DOCX]

Public consultation

Between 2017 and 2020 the Measurement Law Review consulted with stakeholders who interact with the measurement system.

Read the Summary of Public Measurement Law Review Consultations [1.92MB PDF] [108KB DOCX] for a balanced overview of key feedback.

Discussion papers

We sought input on 6 discussion papers. Each examined a specific aspect of Australia’s measurement framework and posed a core question.

1. Scope of Australia’s Measurement Laws [3.2MB PDF] [7.9MB DOCX] — What should Australia’s measurement laws cover in a modern economy?
2. Traceable Measurement [3.8MB PDF] [1.11MB DOCX] — What are the legally acceptable ways of ascertaining if a measurement is consistent with a unit of measurement allowed for legal use in Australia?
3. Measuring Instruments [3.7MB PDF] [1.26 DOCX] — What is the best way to ensure measuring instruments are suitably accurate and appropriate for use in both trade and non-trade contexts?
4. Measurement-based Transactions [3.7MB PDF] [1.08MB DOCX] — How can measurement laws ensure a level playing field for trade and ensure consumer confidence in a modern economy?
5. Third Party Arrangements [2.2MB PDF] [2.4MB DOCX] — What arrangements for third parties would best support Australia’s measurement framework and technical measurement infrastructure?
6.  Compliance Arrangements [2.2MB PDF] [2.4MB DOCX] — What mechanisms can be used to effectively encourage compliant behaviour?

Consultation rounds

We released these papers in 3 consultation rounds on our Consultation hub.

• View published responses on the paper about the scope of Australia’s measurement laws.
• View published responses and a summary of submissions on the papers examining traceable measurement, measuring instruments and measurement-based transactions.
• View published responses and a summary of submissions on the papers considering third party and compliance arrangements.

Industry workshops

During November and December 2019, we held workshops with authorised third parties.

Read the Summary of Industry Consultation Third Party Forums [1.93MB PDF] [145KB DOCX] for key feedback from attendees.

Get involved

If you want to stay up to date about the progress of the review, please email measurementlawreview@industry.gov.au. We will add your details to our mailing list.

You will have further opportunities to provide input in 2021 when we propose options for reform. However, comments are welcome throughout the review. Please email measurementlawreview@industry.gov.au

Read more

• Read about Australia’s measurement system
• See our National Measurement Policy Statement
• Learn more about the National Measurement Institute

Contact us

• Email measurementlawreview@industry.gov.au
• Phone 1300 686 664

See also

Read about the review of measurement markings on packaging