The Commonwealth Bureau of Meteorology was established by the Meteorology Act 1955, which became operative on 20 June 1955.  The Bureau is headed by a Director who has the power to establish meteorological offices and observing stations.
 
From 1973 the Bureau has been referred to as the 'Bureau of Meteorology' in Commonwealth and Australian Government Directories although it is still referred to as the 'Commonwealth Bureau of Meteorology' in the Meteorology Act.
 
The functions of the Bureau are as follows: To observe and forecast the state of the atmosphere throughout Australia and adjacent territories; issue warnings of gales, storms, tropical cyclones, flood and bushfire conditions and other weather conditions likely to endanger life or property; publish and promote the use of meteorological information; furnish advice on meteorological matters; promote the advancement of the science of meteorology by research and investigation; participate in international meteorology, particularly in activities of the World Meteorological Organisation.
 
The Bureau provides general service to the public and special services to the Defence Forces, navigation and shipping authorities and civil aviation, primary producers and industrial and commercial organisations. 


Source

Meteorology Act, No 6 of 1955
Australian Government Directory, 1974
Historical agency address
1955-1962: Subject to research, Hobart
1962-1970: Anglesea Barracks, Hobart
1970-1995: 20 Ellerslie Road, Hobart
1995-    : 111 Macquarie St, Hobart
Legislation administered
Creation:Commonwealth of Australia Acts, No. 6 of 1955, Meteorology Act 1955.