The second hearing of an inquiry into nuclear power generation in Australia has begun today in Canberra.
Government departments, scientific research organisations, and affected communities will address the newly convened House Select Committee on Nuclear Energy.
“We are continuing to set the scene and gather information as to where Australia currently stands with regards to nuclear energy regulation and policy and how nuclear energy would fit into Australia’s current energy mix,” said Committee Chair Dan Repacholi.
This inquiry comes after Opposition leader Peter Dutton proposed building seven nuclear power plants across Australia earlier this year.
Nuclear power is banned under Australian federal law, as well as in New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland.
During today’s hearing, government research agency Geoscience Australia testified that the Opposition had not asked for the organisation’s assessment of whether the seven proposed nuclear sites would be viable.
It would take around two years to complete this assessment, according to Geoscience Australia, and would examine the earth’s condition in the area and the possible impact of natural disasters.
The first hearing, which took place last week, saw scientists testify that it could take 15 to 30 years to install nuclear power plants in Australia, depending on the sites’ nuclear waste output and disposal processes.
Submissions for the inquiry will end on November 15, and the committee is required to complete its report by April 30.