Standards Australia and Standards New Zealand have signed a new agreement designed to enhance coordination across the trans-Tasman standards landscape.
The agreement updates how joint Australian–New Zealand standards and international standards are developed, maintained, and adopted, reducing duplication and improving consistency in support of the Single Economic Market.
Although no new joint standards are introduced immediately, the agreement provides a clearer and more structured framework for future AS/NZS joint standards and international standards adoption across Australia and New Zealand.
Why Joint Standards Matter in Practice
Australia and New Zealand already rely on a large number of AS/NZS joint standards that form the backbone of regulation, infrastructure, and product compliance across both markets.
Well-established examples include:
AS/NZS 3000 (Wiring Rules) – the primary electrical installation standard used by regulators and electricians in both countries.
AS/NZS 4777 (Grid connection of energy systems via inverters) – critical for solar PV and energy storage systems connecting to electricity networks.
AS/NZS 3112 (Plugs and socket-outlets) – defining requirements for mains plugs and power outlets used throughout Australia and New Zealand.
AS/NZS 1668 (Ventilation and air-conditioning in buildings) – widely referenced in building and mechanical regulations.
AS/NZS 62368.1 (Audio/video, ICT and communication equipment safety) – used as a harmonised safety standard for a wide range of electronic products.
These standards demonstrate how joint development already enables regulatory alignment, common testing approaches, and shared market access across the two countries.
What the New Agreement Changes
The new agreement strengthens this existing framework by updating governance, development processes, and commercial arrangements between the two standards bodies.
It establishes consistent pathways for:
Developing new joint AS/NZS standards
Adopting international IEC and ISO standards in a harmonised manner
The agreement also supports broader industry participation, allowing stakeholders from emerging and established sectors to contribute more effectively to standards development.
Priority Areas for Future Alignment
The coordinated approach is intended to strengthen alignment in areas where standards play a critical role, including:
Emerging technologies
Energy systems and renewables
Climate resilience
Supply chains
By improving coordination in these areas, the agreement aims to support regulatory clarity, industry growth, and stronger participation in global markets.
Impact Across Australia and New Zealand
More than 2,000 joint standards are currently in place across Australia and New Zealand. Under the updated agreement, these standards help regulators, manufacturers, and service providers navigate compliance requirements more consistently across both markets. To read the official article from Standards Australia, access below:
At C-PRAV, we track standards and regulatory developments across Australia, New Zealand, and global markets to help manufacturers understand how joint standards impact testing, certification, and compliance across the trans-Tasman region.