The Australian Lab-Testing Landscape
Who tests what, what NATA accreditation actually covers, and what to look for in an Australian-context peptide COA.
Last updated: 28 March 2026
Who runs the labs
Australia's analytical-testing landscape includes NATA-accredited contract labs (large national networks and specialised independents), university-affiliated facilities, and the analytical arms of pharmaceutical manufacturers.
For peptide-class compounds specifically, a smaller subset of labs has the relevant expertise — peptide HPLC method development, peptide mass spec, and the relevant biological assays.
What NATA accreditation covers
NATA accredits labs against ISO 17025 in specific scopes. A lab might be NATA-accredited for pharmaceutical analysis, environmental testing, or food testing — these are different competencies.
Check the lab's accredited scope to confirm peptide analysis is covered. The NATA website lists each accredited facility's scope publicly.
What to look for in an Australian COA
Lab name. NATA accreditation number. Accredited scope statement. Method references (typically internal SOP numbers tied to validated methods). Date of testing. Batch traceability (so the COA can be matched to the physical batch you have).
All of this is standard for legitimate Australian-context analytical testing. Its absence is a quality signal.