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The Albanese government has today opened public consultation on the proposed regulatory framework that will underpin the safety and stewardship of Australia’s future conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines.
The consultation is part of the government’s broader efforts to establish the Australian Naval Nuclear Power Safety Regulator, which will oversee the safe operation of nuclear-powered submarine activities. The public is invited to provide feedback on the draft regulations from 2 to 30 July 2025.
This consultation period will shape the foundation for a nuclear regulatory system designed to uphold the highest standards of nuclear safety, radiological protection and environmental stewardship, aligning with international best practice and drawing on the deep experience of Australia’s AUKUS partners, the United States and the United Kingdom.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles said the consultation reflected the Government’s commitment to safety, transparency and robust regulation as the country progresses towards fielding a sovereign nuclear-powered submarine capability.
“The Albanese government is committed to the highest standards of nuclear safety and stewardship, as we continue to progress the AUKUS pathway at pace,” Minister Marles said.
The current draft regulations focus on licensing the facilities and material-handling activities required to support the early stages of Australia’s nuclear-powered submarine program. Submarine-specific regulatory provisions will be developed and released at a later stage, as the program matures.
The Deputy Prime Minister said, “These regulations are an important part of our approach to building a fit-for-purpose legislative and regulatory framework for Australia’s future conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines.”
The Naval Nuclear Power Safety Regulator will be formally established on 1 November 2025, operating within an integrated national framework that includes key Commonwealth and state agencies:
- Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) – the national regulator for radiation protection and nuclear safety.
- Australian Safeguards and Non-Proliferation Office (ASNO) – overseeing compliance with Australia’s international nuclear non-proliferation obligations.
- Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) – responsible for broader environmental management.
- Comcare, the Defence Seaworthiness Regulator, and relevant state and territory regulators – providing complementary oversight for worker safety, environment and system integrity.
The Deputy Prime Minister added, “This important period of public consultation will help inform the first Australian Naval Nuclear Power Safety Regulations.”
The AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine program is expected to create more than 20,000 direct jobs over the next 30 years and is a key element of the Albanese government’s long-term national security strategy.
To access the draft regulations and make a submission, visit: https://defence.gov.au/annpsr-consultation.
