Australia’s submarine company, ASC, has partnered with the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) to help develop the skilled nuclear workforce needed to support the AUKUS submarine program.

The two organisations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to create innovative career pathways for Australians in nuclear-related roles. This agreement focuses on building the specialist skills and expertise required for Australia’s future conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines.

The partnership is a key step in growing Australia’s sovereign nuclear capability and supports the long-term delivery of the SSN-AUKUS program. It will open opportunities for health physicists and nuclear operators, roles essential to maintaining the highest standards of nuclear safety and operational performance.

ASC Chief Nuclear Officer Neil Crewdson said the collaboration is a significant step in establishing critical nuclear skills in Australia.

“With ANSTO’s support, we’re creating opportunities for Australians to step into critical roles that uphold the highest standards of nuclear safety and operational excellence,” Mr Crewdson said.

Under the agreement, ANSTO will provide technical training, operational experience and secondments at its Sydney facility, which has been operating since 1957. These secondments will allow ASC employees to gain hands-on experience in established nuclear operations.

ANSTO Group Executive Dr Miles Apperley said the MOU reflects ANSTO’s long-standing commitment to supporting Australia’s nuclear future.

“This agreement allows us to share our deep operational experience and help build a skilled, sovereign workforce to support Australia’s nuclear-powered submarine capability,” Dr Apperley said.

Health physicists will play a critical role in maintaining radiological controls and protecting people and the environment from potential hazards. Nuclear operators will support safe and secure operations at facilities where radioactive materials are used and stored.

ASC has already recruited nuclear experts globally, amassing more than 1,000 years of combined nuclear experience within its organisation. This partnership further strengthens ASC’s role as Australia’s Sovereign Submarine Partner, responsible for sustaining and building SSN-AUKUS submarines in collaboration with BAE Systems at Osborne Naval Shipyard in South Australia.

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Image: ASC and ANSTO team members at the OPAL Reactor at ANSTO, Lucas Heights. Credit: ANSTO.