Diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) have been developed for adult and paediatric multi detector computed tomography (MDCT) procedures. Medical imaging providers are required under the ARPANSA Code of Practice (RPS C-5 Section 3.2.15, previously RPS 14 Section 3.1.8) to regularly compare typical patient doses to the national DRLs to optimise the doses delivered to patients.
Current MDCT DRLs
View the current Australian diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) for multi detector computed tomography (MDCT) for adult and paediatric patients.
MDCT DRLs update - July 2025
Get more information on the July 2025 update of the MDCT DRLs.
MDCT Survey
Log in to, register for, or obtain additional information about the NDRLS adult MDCT survey. This survey enables MDCT providers to benchmark their delivered doses against national DRLs and fulfill regulatory obligations – all while helping shape the future MDCT DRLs.
Paediatric data collection has transitioned to an Excel workbook format in place of the NDRLS portal. This updated approach allows for more flexible data entry relating to paediatric head, chest, and abdomen-pelvis imaging protocols, facilitating the implementation of age- and weight-based paediatric DRLs introduced in July 2025. The paediatric survey workbook is available here:
MDCT Statistics
See how the Australian DRLs were derived and how MDCT doses have changed since the MDCT survey started.
MDCT DRLs in more detail
Find out more about the MDCT DRLs, how the information is collected, and how you can compare your facility's CT doses to the DRLs.
