Forensic Science SA (FSSA) provides independent, objective expert scientific opinions and evidence to the justice system and community of South Australia and undertakes a comprehensive range of forensic case work.
FSSA groups
Pathology
The pathology group is responsible for conducting post mortem examinations at the request of the State Coroner. Find out more about pathology.
Biology
Forensic biology involves the detection and identification of biological material on exhibits collected from a crime scene. Find out more about forensic biology.
Toxicology
The toxicology group analyses blood and other biological material for the presence of alcohol, pharmaceuticals and illicit drugs in coronial, road traffic and criminal cases. Find out more about toxicology.
Chemistry
The chemistry group undertakes a broad range of analyses including those involving Illicit drugs, trace evidence and document examination. Find out more about FSSA chemistry.
What's new
Future Forensics - crime scene to court room
Open State 2017
Watch the recorded live stream of the Future Forensics panel discussion facilitated by Natasha Mitchell, Australian science journalist and presenter of ABC RN’s Science Friction podcast and program with speakers:
- Dion Sheppard, Institute of Environmental Science and Research Ltd (ESR), New Zealand on 3D scanning of crime scenes
- Professor Robin Palmer, University of Canterbury, New Zealand on forensic brain wave analysis
- Professor Adrian Linacre, Flinders University on sourcing DNA from crime scenes
- Dr Duncan Taylor, Forensic Science SA on using artificial intelligence to analyse evidence
- Liesl Chapman, SC on the ethics, barriers and legal considerations that surround these technologies.
Dr Duncan Taylor, Forensic Science SA, winner of the 2017 STEM Professional award
2017 SA Science Excellence Awards
Watch the video of Dr Taylor talking about his work.
Forensic Science Centre receives architecture award
Enduring Architecture - Jack Cheesman Award
South Australian Forensic Science Centre – SA Public Buildings Department, Government of South Australia
Blood alcohol certificates
A blood sample taken under the Road Traffic Act is tested for alcohol, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, methylamphetamine and 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA).
Analyses are performed and certificates posted to the driver generally within 3 weeks, depending on when the sample is transported to FSSA.
Watch videos about Forensic Science SA
Inside look into FSSA's high tech crime fighting success - 7 News Adelaide
RiAus interviewed several FSSA staff from each of our sections about their jobs.
These videos can be viewed on YouTube:
