13 July 2026
CSIRO delays fire laboratory closure following outcry
CSIRO delays closure of key fire-testing lab after industry backlash.
CSIRO has pushed back the planned closure of its North Ryde Fire Technology Lab in Sydney by about six months, following pressure from the construction and housing sectors. The lab, one of only two in Australia able to test and certify how materials withstand fire, had been due to shut by the end of the year — a move that raised concerns about delays and cost increases for building certification. The Housing Industry Association had publicly called for a national response to save the site, and CSIRO says the extra time will let it work with staff and industry stakeholders on next steps.
Dr Jonathan Barnett, a Director at The Basic Group and president of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers Australia chapter, was skeptical the delay solves the underlying problem. He argued a year isn't enough time to build a new facility and train replacement staff and suggested the original closure decision looked more political than practical.
Read the full article at InnovationAus: https://www.innovationaus.com/csiro-delays-fire-laboratory-closure-following-outcry/
