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A new regulatory body that aims to regulate and ensure efficient, safe use of nuclear power as a part of AUKUS has been launched in Canberra.
The federal government has announced a new statutory agency in a major milestone for AUKUS, the Australian Naval Nuclear Power Safety Regulator.
The agency will be responsible for regulating the oversight of Australia’s naval nuclear production and propulsion capacity, as well as providing independent insight into ensuring nuclear safety and radiological measures are effectively upheld.
Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles said the introduction of the agency “marks another important step in the delivery of Australia’s conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines”.
“This new agency will play a key role in ensuring the highest standards of nuclear safety and stewardship.”
The agency, which will be headquartered in Canberra, will see over 70 staff members working closely with the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) to ensure the aims are achieved in alignment with federal authority.
Michael Drake will lead as the inaugural director-general of the agency, bringing a breadth of experience in the maritime industry through serving 15 years in the Royal Australian Navy, and most recently as the executive director of operations with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.
“I am proud to be leading the Australian Naval Nuclear Power Safety Regulator and recognise its important role in delivering Australia’s conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines.
“We are committed to working with all Australian stakeholders and our AUKUS partners to uphold the highest standards of nuclear safety and radiological protection.”
The Australian Naval Nuclear Power Safety Regulations 2025 was introduced to help establish a comprehensive framework for licensing facilities and materials related to naval nuclear propulsion.
These regulations mark a major step in Australia’s pathway to operating nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS partnership, with future regulations addressing the acquisition and operation of Virginia Class submarines and the construction of Australia’s SSN-AUKUS fleet. Oversight responsibilities, including licensing, will transition from ARPANSA to the new naval nuclear regulator.
