The present invention relates broadly to a valve assembly (10) being adapted to detachably receive a dry-break refuelling nozzle (12). The valve assembly comprises a receiver body (14) which defines a forward fuel passageway (16) in which a poppet valve member (18) is slidably mounted. The valve assembly (10) also comprises a tail body (22) secured coaxial with the receiver body (14) and defining a rearward fuel passageway (26). the tail body (22) slidably houses a check valve member or diffuser (28) which is driven by a hydraulic actuator or piston assembly (30).