The first Departmental (Post-War Reconstruction) materials science laboratory was established in 1945 at Essendon, Victoria, to serve as a project site testing facility for the Essendon Aerodrome development as well as a central Departmental laboratory.  In 1946, the central laboratory was relocated in Prahan, Victoria and by 1950, was moved to the Salmon Street, Port Melbourne location and its activities expanded to cover aspects of water, sewerage, corrosion, coatings, electrical equipment and structural components as well as aerodrome pavement materials.

By 1950, each region had established a materials testing laboratory.  In 1957, the Victorian Regional laboratory and Central laboratory were amalgamated to become the Central Testing and Research Laboratory (CTRL), with both regional and Department wide functions.  The Victorian Regional Laboratory was re-established in 1975 and the Central Laboratory became the 'Central Investigation and Research Laboratory' (CIRL)

The Central Investigation and Research Laboratory underwent a name change on 8 May 1986 and became the Scientific Services Branch.

In late 1988 this was changed to Scientific Services Laboratory (SSL). The role of SSL was to provide the Department of Administrative Services with research and investigation capability in relation to its technical advice, design and construction and maintenance operations, and to provide a commercial scientific service to external clients in the construction and related industries.  

By mid-1990 the Scientific Services Laboratory had ceased to be controlled by the Central Office and was transferred to Australian Construction Services, Victorian Regional Office.  From July 1995 SSL operated as a business unit of the Australian Government Analytical Laboratories (AGAL).

Following the amalgamation of AGAL, the National Measurement Laboratory, and the National Standards Commission in July 2004 to form the National Measurement Institute (CA 9005), the SSL moved to CSIRO Manufacturing and Infrastructure Technology at Highett, Victoria.


Sources:

Department of Housing and Construction, Central Investigation and Research Laboratory, Functions and Activities, May 1983
Department of Housing and Construction Annual Report 1984-85, Commonwealth Parliamentary Paper No. 436/1985
Department of Administrative Services Annual Report 1995-96
http://www.measurement.gov.au 

Historical agency address
by 1950-2004: 177 Salmon Street, Port Melbourne, Victoria