Nutrient Reference Values

Nutrient Reference Values

Australia and New Zealand

The Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New Zealand (NRVs) are a set of evidence-informed recommendations that outline the intake levels of essential nutrients considered adequate to meet nutritional needs and prevent harm in healthy people. 

History of the NRVs

The current set of NRVs were published in 2006. They were developed by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing (the Department) and the New Zealand Ministry of Health (NZ MoH). Updates were made to fluoride and sodium recommendations in 2017. In 2019, NHMRC commenced a rolling, priority-driven review of nutrients.

The NRV update process is guided by a methodological framework for the Review of Nutrient Reference Values. This framework has recently been revised.

For more details on the history and development of the NRVs, see the NHMRC NRVs publication page. 

Current work

Iodine

Draft updated recommendations went out for public consultation in late 2025. Publication of the final version is anticipated in late 2026.

Selenium

Draft updated recommendations went out for public consultation in early 2026. Publication of the final version is anticipated in late 2026.

Sodium

Draft updated recommendations are currently open for public consultation (closing 30 September 2026). Publication of the final version is anticipated in 2027.

Vitamin B6

Draft updated recommendations are currently open for public consultation (closing 30 September 2026). Publication of the final version is anticipated in 2027.

Governance

NRV reviews are overseen by a Steering Group (comprising NHMRC, the Department and the NZ MoH). A Steering Group Advisory Committee advises the Steering Group. Nutrient specific experts are engaged to advise on the review of each nutrient. 

Learn more about the Advisory Committee and expert working groups.