Australia’s role in international standardisation is critical for our economic resilience and sovereignty. Now is a great time to be involved with Standards Australia.

Standards play a vital role in global trade and geopolitics. This month, we released a draft standard on Quantum for public comment. Set for publication in mid-2025, the standard aims to help those without deep technical expertise to understand and engage with quantum technologies, supporting investment and planning. Read more in the 'Latest News' section below.

Quantum technology isn’t just for scientists. It impacts national security, economic growth, and innovation. For example:

• In healthcare, it can enable faster cancer detection and personalised treatments.
• In logistics, it streamlines shipping operations, reducing processes from months to minutes.  
• In autonomous vehicles, quantum sensors improve object detection, making self-driving cars safer.  

However, quantum computers could also break today’s encryption, creating potential digital security vulnerabilities. Experts warn of the “Quantum Cliff”—a tipping point when quantum systems outpace our ability to protect sensitive data. Australia must act now and use standards as our guide.

As quantum tech shows, global trade is becoming more complex and digital. Standards are strategic instruments that countries use to advance national interests and shape global norms. We are proud to help set clear guidelines and keep our community and industries at the forefront of opportunities in both quantum tech and standardisation.  

Together, we can navigate these exciting times and ensure a prosperous future for Australia.

Standards Australia has released the draft standard, AS 5405 Quantum technology – Reference guide to quantum computing, along with a new research report showcasing Australia’s leadership in quantum standardisation. Our CEO, Rod Balding, and the Chair of our Quantum Technologies Committee, Cathy Foley, lead our alignment with the National Quantum Strategy, reinforcing Australia’s position in the global quantum race. Join this important conversation. We invite academics, government, and industry to provide input on draft standard. Public comment closes on June 16, 2025.

Read more about our Quantum initiatives.

Are you, or do you know someone who is, a young professional working in a business, industry, association, or government body involved with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)? This is your chance to represent Australia and shape international standardisation and conformity assessment work.

Since 2010, the IEC Young Professionals Programme has welcomed over 750 participants globally. This programme offers a unique opportunity to network, develop leadership skills, and contribute to key projects in electrotechnology.

This one-year, free of charge programme is open to young professionals aged early 20s to mid-30s who have completed their studies, have experience in standard development or the use of standards in the context of conformity assessment, and are working in relevant industries.

Applications now open

Two applicants from Australia will be selected. Applications close on Tuesday, 20 May 2025, at 5 PM.

The programme includes attendance at the Annual Workshop, in conjunction with the IEC 2025 General Meeting in New Delhi, India, 15-19 September 2025. Travel and accommodation expenses will be covered.

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We invite government, industry, and third-sector leaders to join us for the in-person Responsible AI Management Training in selected countries. Learn about international standards, trustworthy AI adoption, and informed decision-making with the AI Management System standard.

Workshop schedule:

• Manila, Philippines – Monday, 26 May 2025
• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Wednesday, 28 May 2025
• Jakarta, Indonesia – Friday, 30 May 2025
• Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Wednesday, 11 June 2025
• Hanoi, Vietnam – Friday, 13 June 2025
• Vientiane, Laos – Monday, 16 June 2025
• Bangkok, Thailand – Wednesday, 18 June 2025
• Dili, Timor Leste – Date TBC

Read more about this initiative.

Lithium-ion batteries are causing over 10,000 fires a year in Australia. From serious burns to entire houses engulfed in flames, the risks are real.

Listen to our Chief Operating Officer, Kareen Riley-Takos, in her recent interview with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) to learn about the potential dangers and safety issues related to lithium-ion batteries, especially in e-scooters and e-bikes.

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Learn more about our international initiatives and how to get involved.

Check out the latest standards development news in your industry sector.

Help us keep Australians safe! Our public comment phase provides an opportunity for stakeholders and members of the public to make valuable contributions.

Draft standards open for comment.