Epidemiological and outcome data from pregnancies complicated by pre-existing diabetes and gestational diabetes are ‘patchy’ in Australia and New Zealand. There are some centres that retain an ongoing internal audit, while others have no systematic process to review their care. A national clinical audit programme can provide an implementation framework for those centres interested in reviewing and improving their care, and provide benchmarking support for those with established audit activities. ADIPS carried out a pilot study of 3 approaches to clinical audit (paper, stand-alone electronic, networked electronic) across 9 different clinical settings (rural, urban, large proportion of indigenous, New Zealand) linked with a Benchmarking Centre in 2007 (Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology 2007;47:198–206). Based on the findings of that exercise, and developments in the field since, a revised dataset, a data dictionary, a process for de-identification of patients and sites and proposed central data analysis and reporting site protocols have been developed. Discussions have been held with the Australian Institute for Health and Welfare (AIHW) to serve as both the data repository and the Trusted Third Party (anonymising sites in the process) and they have already reviewed the original proposal and the dataset. There are many variables that are new to the AIHW and the dataset is under review again. A key issue remains a source of ongoing funding for administration and benchmarking. In view of this, it is proposed that a pilot be undertaken to assist with the process of obtaining funding while arrangements with AIHW are worked through. Further issues will be discussed.