The cutting-edge technology pioneered by Australian company ForensicXR leverages virtual reality (VR) and extended reality (XR) to create immersive and interactive crime scene environments. 

Students, WA Police and forensic investigators were recently able to test the ForensicXR program at the Digital Immersive Laboratory, located at Murdoch University’s Boola Katitjin academic building.  

Associate Professor Paola Magni said ForensicXR was a significant new teaching tool. 

“Crime scenes come in various shapes and forms, and it is often challenging to train students to step in as investigators due to the difficulty of replicating certain elements, such as blood stains, guns or drugs,” she said. 

“Utilising ForensicXR, students, police and forensic investigators can step into a different world – the world of investigation in extended reality. This hands-on experience is invaluable for their training and future careers. This is the future and it’s happening here.” 

Associate Professor Magni said gamification was the future of training and education because it required active involvement. 

“By engaging students’ hands, eyes and minds, the skills they learn will truly stick with them,” she said. 

“This is not just about forensic learning; it is about understanding how technology can be implemented in their work, making them better prepared for the diverse challenges they will face in their careers.”  

ForensicXR CEO Kirk Duncan developed the software, which utilises MetaQuest VR headsets, to create a potentially infinite number of fictitious crime scenes – or replicate real-world crime scenes which could be located anywhere in the world. 

“The technology allows students to practice and perfect their skills in a safe and controlled environment,” he said.  

“From a policing perspective, officers can reexamine real-world crime scenes, enhancing their investigative capabilities.” 

Associate Professor Magni said a significant feature of the technology was the opportunity for students with mobility issues or disability to train and work in forensics.  

“We had a student that had to have a knee replacement recently who could not come to the bushland where we set up a real-world investigation – but they could participate in the ForensicXR session,” she said.   

Students will continue to have access to ForensicXR as a learning tool, with the university purchasing MetaQuest headsets for use in teaching.  

 Murdoch University is a leader in forensic science education and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses through the School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences. From 2026, a new Bachelor of Forensic Sciences will be offered for the first time.