Assessing the reliability and validity of forensic science – an industry perspective.

Forensic science processes, whether human- or instrument-based, should exhibit valid, reliable and robust processes to be fit for purpose for the variety of intelligence, investigative and evidentiary applications that opinions may be provided for. Demonstration of the overarching validity of forensic science methods requires empirical evidence of the reliability, reproducibility and potential for error, while practitioners and laboratories should be able to provide evidence to support relevant competence, attention to scientific best practice and transparent and appropriate reporting. The Australian and international communities are collectively working towards gathering evidence towards demonstrable validity, with important progress being made in recent years. However, such efforts require substantial resourcing and coordination to continue or accelerate these critical endeavours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]