RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN AUSTRALIA - REFERENCE MATERIALS AND PROFICIENCY TESTING

The Australian Government Analytical Laboratories (AGAL) has historica lly been the major provider of chemical and micro biological analytica l services to the Australian Government. An equally important role has been the provision of specialist functions associated with: developme nt and implementation of new and improved testing methods; evaluation and commissioning of new instrumentation; advice and assistance to gov ernment with the design, implementation and conduct of proficiency tes ting programs, particularly in areas of chemical testing related to in ternational trade. In July 1993, in response to increasing internation al interest in chemical metrology, AGAL established a Valid Analytical Measurement program focused on improving the acceptability of laborat ory data and supporting the development of appropriate standards throu gh the National Standards Commission. AGAL has recently surveyed Austr alian residue testing laboratories to determine their priority require ments for reference materials and inter laboratory check sample progra ms. Survey results have clearly demonstrated a need for reasonably pri ced, certified reference materials for pesticide and antibiotic residu e testing in raw agricultural produce. There are few reference materia ls available in this field of testing, particularly for residues of co ncern in Australia. AGAL has therefore initiated action as follows: Pr eparation and certification of two priority reference materials, (i) o rganochlorines (dieldrin and heptachlor epoxide) in animal fat, (ii) o rganophosphates (diazinon, chlorpyrifos and ethion)in animalfat Invest igation of storage stability of animal liver samples containing averme ctin, sulphonamide and other antibiotic residues to ascertain suitabil ity for reference material production. In the area of proficiency test ing, AGAL provides ongoing services (in close consultation with NATA, the National Association of Testing Authorities) to the Australian exp ert meat industry. AGAL is seeking to expand this role to involve a wi der range of laboratories engaged in residue testing of both export an d domestic produce. The Australian Government believes it has an impor tant role to play, particularly in the South East Asian and Pacific Ri m regions, in co-operation, collaboration, assistance with training, a nd provision of specialist technical services.