Valve assembly for dispensing fluids comprising: elastomeric septum 218 with fluid tight engagement within a container 202； a slit traversing centre of the septum to form two petaline portions configured to distend in response to insertion of fluid transfer conduit 225 through septum, to engage the walls of the conduit and self-close upon withdrawal of the conduit. Preferably, the septum wipes the walls of the conduit on withdrawal. Preferably, a receiving arrangement 210 comprises: a guide to guide a syringe or pipette into engagment； a stopper near a reservoir of dispenser and formed from annular flange or inwards projections configured to engage with end of syringe or pipette； and a plunger 224 with a fluid transfer channel. Preferably, a resilient member 219 urges fluid transfer conduit away from septum to the closed configuration. Preferably, septum comprises slit valve, duck bill valve, or umbrella valve.
