Nuclear Taskforce

Australia’s nuclear-powered submarine program will be the most transformative industrial endeavour in the nation's history – exceeding in scale, complexity, and economic significance the creation of an Australian automotive manufacturing sector and the construction of the Snowy Hydro Scheme. 

Nuclear Taskforce Chairman, Michael Sharpe said "We are bringing industry and researchers together to support Defence projects for today and for the decades to come. We are working to help plan and build the skilled workforce needed for Australia’s future."

Developing a pipeline of highly skilled STEM graduates and a talented skilled workforce will build Australia’s sovereign industry capabilities, playing a crucial role in delivering on our AUKUS commitments, and strengthening national security.

Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles said:  

“The Albanese Government understands that front and centre of the success of Australia’s nuclear-powered submarines will be the many thousands of Australians who help build them. “We need to start investing in those skills now – this is a project which starts this year and will span decades with enormous opportunities.”

The first major initiative of AUKUS was the historic trilateral decision to support Australia acquiring conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines. A Joint Leaders Statement has announced the pathway to achieve this critical capability. 

"This plan is designed to support Australia’s development of the infrastructure, technical capabilities, industry and human capital necessary to produce, maintain, operate, and steward a sovereign fleet of conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines. Australia is fully committed to responsible stewardship of naval nuclear propulsion technology."

While HMAS Stirling in Western Australia will continue as the west coast submarine base, the new east coast base will be the home port for half of the new nuclear-powered submarine fleet, supported by industry for operations and maintenance.  The economic benefits to the chosen location will be significant: a spend in the region of $5–10 billion to develop the base, ongoing employment of 3,000 to 5,000 personnel, and an array of industries and services supporting these workers and their families. As an example, the Garden Island Defence Precinct in Sydney injects an estimated $842 million into its local economy annually, with around $286 million in salaries.