Posted by Defence Teaming Centre on
Australia’s transition to nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS trilateral partnership will require a dedicated effort and a significant shift in mindset according to a new study presented by a group of future Australian defence leaders.
A research paper from the Defence Teaming Centre’s Defence Industry Leadership Program (DILP) explores how Australia can cultivate the necessary expertise, workforce, and public trust to support the shift to nuclear. The study, Building Australia’s Nuclear Leadership, highlights the importance of embedding a nuclear culture that prioritises safety, security, education, and public engagement.
DILP is now in its 15th year and is one of the 22 initiatives funded under the South Australian Defence Industry Workforce and Skills Action Plan. Its alumni include current industry leaders representing a broad range of organisations from Primes to SME’s and academia.
The Nuclear Mindset: A Cultural Shift
The study argues that success in nuclear-powered defence capabilities is not just about infrastructure—it requires a shift in mindset.
“It’s about creating a culture based on principles that guide how nuclear projects are executed,” explained Barbara Solomos, a mechanical engineer with the marine consultancy BMT and who is a co-author of the DILP study.
“This mindset fosters an environment of safety, responsibility, and a shared commitment to a sustainable and successful nuclear industry.”
A key recommendation is the creation of a Nuclear Technology Centre, modelled after Australia’s Space Centre, to educate the public and dispel long-standing myths about nuclear energy.
“Many Australians associate nuclear power with disasters like Fukushima or Chernobyl,” says Solomos.
“A dedicated centre can demonstrate the safety, applications, and benefits of nuclear technology, including its role in medicine and energy security.”
Building a Skilled Workforce
Developing a skilled workforce is critical to supporting Australia’s nuclear ambitions. The study calls for stronger industry and education partnerships, including integrating nuclear science into school curriculums and expanding university programs.
“A highly capable workforce is key to ensuring Australia’s ability to sustain nuclear-powered submarines,” said Solomos.
“We need national programs that encourage students and professionals to enter nuclear-related fields and build career pathways across the country—not just in Adelaide and Perth, but nationwide.”
A National Nuclear Vision
A central recommendation from the study is the need for a unified national nuclear vision, aligning government, industry, and the public. This would serve as a guiding framework for shaping nuclear policy, regulatory practices, and public engagement strategies.
The study also highlights opportunities for Australian businesses, particularly SMEs, to integrate into global nuclear supply chains.
“Although Australian content in the nuclear-powered submarines may not mirror previous programs, the involvement of local businesses in maintenance and other key sectors presents a new horizon for growth and innovation,” says Solomos.
Shaping the Future of Nuclear in Australia
The successful implementation of the AUKUS agreement depends on more than technological advancements—it requires public trust, education, and a long-term strategy. The study urges policymakers, industry leaders, and educators to come together to develop a robust, informed, and resilient nuclear sector.
“Public engagement is critical,” says Solomos. “Legitimising our efforts, helping people understand why we’re pursuing this path, and how it benefits them will not only create career opportunities but also shape Australia’s nuclear aspirations for generations to come.”
Recommendations for Australia’s Nuclear Future
The new study identifies six key recommendations to drive the development of Australia’s nuclear sector:
- Development of a National Nuclear Vision: A clear national vision with an underpinning strategy to embed the nuclear mindset, providing clear direction to Defence, industry, and the public.
- Development of a Nuclear Technology Public Portal: To provide a single source of truth for Australia’s nuclear projects, providing clear government-endorsed information with a robust anti-disinformation strategy.
- Establishment of a Nuclear Technology Centre: The development of a centre focused on public education and engagement.
- Development of a "Public Mindset" Document: A tailored nuclear mindset document to address the public mindset around nuclear power to maximise understanding and acceptance of nuclear technology.
- Development and Implementation of a Clear and Robust Public Engagement Strategy.
- Strategies to Build Nuclear Mindset into the Workforce: Expanding early industry engagement with schools, creating higher education schemes with a nuclear focus, and building clear pathways for skill retention.
The full research paper is available now and provides valuable insights into how Australia can navigate the challenges ahead and establish itself as a leader in nuclear technology. To access the research paper click here.
The views, findings, and recommendations presented in the Defence Industry Leadership Program Research Reports are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official stance or opinions of the Defence Teaming Centre.
