Australian Defence Scientific Service
ADSS
1949 – 1974
Defence research and development service of the Department of Supply that grouped the government defence laboratories and trials establishments, including the Long Range Weapons Establishment (later the Weapons Research Establishment), the Aeronautical Research Laboratories and the Maribyrnong laboratories.
How it came into existence
Established in 1949 within the Department of Supply and Development to bring its defence research laboratories and establishments into a single scientific service, following post-war decisions on defence research and the Anglo-Australian Joint Project.
- Defence research laboratories and establishments
Changes during its life
- 16 March 1950Moved to the new Department of Supply.
- 12 June 1974Moved to the Department of Defence when the Department of Supply was abolished.
How it ended
Transferred to the Department of Defence when the Department of Supply was abolished in June 1974, and combined with the scientific units of the defence and service departments to form the Defence Science and Technology Organisation.
- Defence research laboratories and establishments
Main functions
- Defence research and development
- Guided-weapons research and Woomera trials
- Aeronautical research
- Materials, explosives and standards research
- Scientific advice to the services
Where it sits
Last in the portfolio of Department of Defence.
Lineage
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Sources
Some dates or links for this organisation are not fully confirmed. Corrections are welcome.