In September 1974 the name of the Defence Standards Laboratories (CA 2556) was changed to the Materials Research Laboratories. (1).The laboratories conduct research into material questions ranging from scientific investigation of current difficulties to development of new equipment. This includes examining armaments and defence equipment, explosives and ammunition,instrumentation and standards of measurement, and protection of personnel and equipment. Scientific developments in the fields of physics, chemistry and metallurgy judged to have defence application in the future are also studied.
 
Mr A.R. Edwards has been Chief Superintendent of the Laboratories since 1974.
 
Because of the expertise developed within this agency it is often called upon to carry out investigations into matters other than defence related research. For example, it conducts research into standards of petroleum fuel and lubricants throughout Australia.  
A joint statement made by the Ministers for Defence and for
Manufacturing Industry on 1 July 1974 announced that control of research and development activities within the Department of
Manufacturing Industry was transferred to the Department of Defence.(2) This included control over these laboratories. However the Department of Manufacturing Industry was to continue to provide administrative support and it apparently did so until early 1975.
 
References:
 
1. The Canberra Times, 25 Sept. 1974, p. 15
 
2. Sydney Morning Herald, 2 July 1974, p. 12
 
The personnel, pay, and general administrative functions of both ARL and MRL have been amalgamated to form the Science Corporate Management Division of DSTO Melbourne.  This occurred on paper on 1 October 1992, and physically transpired in March 1993.  The technical divisions of both ARL and MRL will eventually be combined to form the Scientific and Technical Division of DSTO Melbourne to complete the amalgamation.  Each division will be accountable to, and controlled by, a central division within DSTO Central Office. A Science Corporate Management Division Central Office has already been established.
 
As from April 1994, Materials Research Laboratory (CA 2557) and Aeronautical Research Laboratory amalgamated to form the Aeronautical and Maritime Research Laboratory - Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) (CA 7873).  Even though the name has changed both laboratories will remain at their present locations; MRL in Maribynong and ARL at Fishermens Bend.  Former ARL premises will be Head Office.  

Historical agency address
Cordite Avenue, Maribyrong, Victoria