The viability of nuclear energy in Australia is being explored by a federal parliamentary committee.

Created in response to federal opposition leader Peter Dutton’s election call for nuclear reactors to replace coal-fired power plants, the newly established House Select Committee on Nuclear Energy began its public hearing program in Canberra last week.

It’s hoped the committee will provide an opportunity “for a productive discussion of the fundamental issues around nuclear power generation in Australia”.

In the coming weeks and months, the committee will hear from a broad range of experts to examine the financial and environmental implications of developing nuclear energy in Australia. Community safety will also likely be discussed, as will questions over where the nuclear waste will be stored. 

As federal law prohibits nuclear power – as do several states – the legalities of building nuclear reactors will also need to be considered.

Various federal government departments will provide input including the Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water; Department of Industry, Science and Resources; the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade; and the Department of Defence.

Government agencies such as the Australia Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation and the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation will also be called upon, as will others.

Communities from across Australia impacted by a nuclear energy policy will also be invited to express their views.

The select committee – which held its second public hearing on Monday – is chaired by Dan Repacholi, whose NSW electorate of Hunter has been earmarked for one of seven nuclear reactor sites identified by the Coalition’s proposal.

“The committee is looking forward to continuing to hear evidence from stakeholders who may have a role in any future federal nuclear energy policy in Australia, and experts with knowledge of nuclear energy,” Repacholi said. “We are continuing to set the scene and gather information as to where Australia currently stands with regards to nuclear energy regulation and policy and how nuclear energy would fit into Australia’s current energy mix.”

The committee is seeking submissions by Friday 15 November 2024. A reporting date has been set for 30 April 2025.