Why would I consider testing if I am traveling overseas or if I am in a hazardous occupation? Clearly, travel to some areas of the world today is hazardous. In particular young travelers to remote areas and those employed in politically may wish to consider DNA profiling before travelling. In the event of an accident determination if an individual was or was not involved in an incident is easier when the DNA profile has been recorded in Australia. We profile to the International Standard ISO 17025 which is the same standard used by Forensic Laboratories worldwide. In the event of an emergency your profile can be sent to any laboratory for verification. DNA profiling in real life is not like the American CSI like shows. In fact, finding an old toothbrush or strands of hair in a hairbrush are unreliable methods of matching DNA, as the samples may be degraded or contaminated. Dental records are often hard to obtain and not as reliable as a DNA profile. Having a record of your unique profile can lessen the stress on relatives if identification is required. This testing is for an identification profile and does not test for predisposition to any genetic diseases. DNA samples are destroyed after testing.

DNA QLD provides DNA genotyping for individuals in hazardous occupations. These include : military service overseas, security services in Afghanistan and Iraq; NGO workers, oil rig employees and travellers to remote areas. Clearly, genotyping can help to identify a body as seen after the tsunamis and other natural disasters. However, knowing a profile can identify that a family member was not at a disaster location or involved in an accident.

DNA QLD is also able to offer genotyping for parents who are concerned about their child’s safety and identification if there is a possibility of abduction or the child becoming missing. DNA QLD used the same identification kit as Forensic facilities in Australia and overseas.