Australia Updates Standard for Dynamic Liquid Measuring Systems After Industry Consultation
Australia has updated its national standard for dynamic measuring systems used with liquids other than water, following strong support from industry during a public consultation. The revised standard, NMI R 117:2026, aligns Australia’s pattern approval requirements for flow metering systems with current international guidance while incorporating local regulatory adjustments. According to the Department of Industry, Science and Resources announcement, the changes aim to streamline approvals, support international testing arrangements, and maintain consistency with Australia’s trade measurement framework.
Alignment With International Measurement Standards
The NMI R 117:2026 standard adopts and modifies the International Organization of Legal Metrology guideline OIML R 117 (2019). It establishes technical and metrological requirements for systems that measure liquids such as fuels, chemicals, and other commercial fluids during transfer.
The standard is structured in three parts covering technical requirements, testing and metrological controls, and the format for official test reports. Together, these sections guide the pattern approval process that ensures measuring systems used in trade deliver accurate and reliable results.
Industry Consultation Shows Strong Support
The National Measurement Institute (NMI) conducted a public consultation on the updated standard from 20 June to 15 August 2025. Responses from industry stakeholders showed unanimous support for adopting the revised requirements.
Following feedback, the NMI introduced several refinements. These included minor adjustments to draft wording and alignment of maximum permissible errors with provisions set out in the National Trade Measurement Regulations 2009.
Testing Capacity and International Laboratory Use
During the consultation, some stakeholders raised concerns about the availability of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing capability within Australia. Where domestic facilities are limited, businesses may need to rely on accredited international laboratories to complete certain testing requirements.
Officials note that aligning Australia’s measurement standards with international frameworks allows testing results from recognised overseas laboratories to be used in the approval process. This approach is intended to streamline certification procedures and reduce technical barriers to trade.
Supporting Reliable Measurement in Trade
Accurate measurement systems are central to fair trading practices in sectors such as fuel distribution, manufacturing, and logistics. Regulatory frameworks that standardise testing and performance requirements help ensure consistency across equipment suppliers and operators.
Australia has increasingly integrated digital and data-driven tools to strengthen regulatory oversight and infrastructure planning. For example, initiatives highlighted in Australia’s use of facial recognition for regulatory oversight and compliance and smart data mapping for solar infrastructure planning illustrate how technology is being applied to improve governance and operational transparency across sectors.
By updating NMI R 117 to reflect international standards while maintaining domestic regulatory alignment, authorities aim to support both industry compliance and confidence in measurement systems used in commercial transactions.
