Australian Naval Nuclear Power Safety 2023

# Australian Naval Nuclear Power Safety Bill 2023 ## What it does This law sets up a safety framework for Australia's new nuclear-powered submarines being built as part of the AUKUS defence agreement. It requires anyone working with these submarines or their nuclear equipment to have a government licence and follow strict nuclear safety rules, similar to how nuclear power plants are regulated. ## Why it matters Australia is buying submarines that run on nuclear power, which is more powerful and quiet than conventional diesel submarines. This bill makes sure the nuclear reactors and fuel are handled safely on Australian soil and at sea, protecting workers, the public, and the environment from nuclear accidents. ## Key details - **Who needs a licence:** Anyone operating nuclear submarine facilities, handling the submarines themselves, or working with nuclear fuel and equipment must get official authorisation from a regulator (which will be set up under this law). - **Safety requirements:** Licence holders have to run proper safety management systems, report any nuclear safety incidents immediately, and make sure their staff are competent and properly supervised. - **Applies to AUKUS submarines only:** This specifically covers the conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines Australia is acquiring through the AUKUS partnership—not nuclear weapons or other nuclear technology.

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