Australia's Ethan Warren and Grant Nel narrowly missed out on booking the nation a spot at the London Olympics in the 3m synchronised springboard.

The pair put in a strong opening and final dive at the test event for the London Games but came up short by 12 points.

With Britain guaranteed a spot at the home Games, Australia (401.58) needed a top seven result but finished ninth at the Olympic aquatics centre.

China's combination of Qin Kai and Luo Yutong won the World Cup event with a total of 445.71 from Russia and Malaysia.

Brisbane-based Warren said the Australian pair had limited time training together because Nel was based at university in Texas.

"We missed out by 12 points," Warren said.

"Which is a shame. That was the last chance. We did a pretty decent score."

Earlier Loudy Wiggins (318.40), who is chasing a spot at her fourth Olympics, qualified seventh for Tuesday morning's semi-finals with Chinese superstar Chen Ruolin (403.45) leading the way.

Compatriot Rachel Bugg (267.70) had a tough day at the office, missing the semi-finals after qualifying in 22nd place.

AAP