This series contains classified and unclassified administrative and technical files relating to the weapons research function originally registered in single number order from a block allocation. "A" prefix indicates housekeeping functions. "SA" prefix indicates technical or policy files. Later "C" confidential and "R" restricted prefixes were added. The multiple numbers evolved by expansion of the single number (block allocation) system, during the period (Nov.) 1954 -1967.
Initial action for conversion to the multiple number system was taken in 1954 when most secondary and tertiary numbers were added. The original primary number was maintained and files were split or new parts opened to give broad secondary classifications. The series control systems were changed in 1963 when alpha prefixes were added to indicate the branch section sub-registry, which held a particular file. A list of location prefixes led to the creation of new file registration books and cards. While the series is decentralised and serviced by many sub- registries to meet the demands of the new semi-autonomous research laboratories, the records and information services the agency as a whole. The location prefixes only designate the usual sub- registry location of a file: it does not limit the distribution or access to the information contained.
In about 1965 a "STAIRS" computerised location and indexing system was introduced which allowed indexing at file and selected folio level. This system allows on line subject searching and in addition provides several permutations of the file list on printout eg master list and sub-registry list. The system makes provision for the control of both current and non-current records by use of an "archival programme".
The classification system is project rather than subject oriented, ie a primary number will indicate a project or major portion of a project, the secondary numbers will indicate broad subject category and the tertiary number identifies the individual transactions, the location prefix indicates the particular branch or section primarily responsible for the individual transaction.
Location prefixes as follows:
A. Central Registry
B. Electronics Division Sub-Registry
C. Systems Analysis Division Sub-Registry
D. Optics and Surveillance Division Sub-Registry
E. Communications and Electronic Engineering Division Sub-Registry F. Planning and Data Analysis Group Sub-Registry
G. Propulsion and Marine Physics Division Sub-Registry
H. Weapons Systems Division Sub-Registry
J. Aerospace Division Sub-Registry
K. Workshops and Mechanical Design Division Sub-Registry
L. Programme Assessment Group Sub-Registry
M. Space Research Group Sub-Registry
P. Engineering Services Division Sub-Registry
Q. Engineering Materials and Documentation Group Sub-Registry S. Safety Section Sub-Registry
T. Trails Systems Division Sub-Registry
W. Engineering Materials and Documentation Group Sub-Registry
In March 1991 a portion of the records created by DRCS (now DSTO) were transferred to the Department of Defence, Army, South Australia (EDE,L & S,ETF). The records were seconded to complete certain tasks. The records have been top-numbered but have retained the original secondary and tertiary numbers with ETF prefix.
The files listed below have been transferred from the custody of Sonar Systems Division DSTO Salisbury to Materials Research Laboratory DSTO Melbourne:
M6098/9/1 pts 1 & 2 MK 46 MOD Torpedo: Characteristics and Performance. M6452/3/3 pt 1 Task NAV 91/508- Collection and Evaluation of Torpedo Information- MSD Aspects.
In October 1988 the files relating to Woomera were removed from this series and are now incorporated into D246,"Correspondence files, multiple series with "A" (Administrative) prefix", which is controlled by CA3077, Defence Support Centre, Woomera.
Quantity in agency custody
c.812sh.m. held by CA 7564, Defence Science & Technology Organisation
Disposal History
Consignment D174/217 was withdrawn permanently by the Department of Defence [III], Central Office for sentencing purposes of temporary records on the 18th July 2019.