Dr Spurling is eminent because of his outstanding contributions to applied chemistry. As Chief of the CSIRO Division of Chemicals and Polymers he has developed strong ties with several companies, resulting in the commercialisation of a diverse range of industrial products and processes. His personal research in physical and theoretical chemistry has contributed significantly to this commercial success. He was a pioneer in the use of computational chemistry, the design of crop protection chemicals, and the simulation of polymerization and absorption processes. Dr. Spurling has served with distinction as President of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute and the Federation of Asian Chemical Societies.