The Four Corners episode "Nuclear Gamble," which aired on October 7, 2024, missed a critical opportunity to address the urgent energy challenges facing Australia and the role nuclear energy could play in addressing the growing climate and energy crises. We’re disappointed that neither the program nor the accompanying news stories included the voices of Australian nuclear experts or grassroots advocates who understand the gravity of the situation.
What was evident from the program is that public opinion is shifting significantly, especially among younger generations who increasingly recognise the need for bold solutions to the climate emergency. Yet, the episode focused on anti-nuclear views from older individuals, failing to reflect the growing number of energised young people embracing nuclear energy as part of a clean, reliable energy future. Polling suggests that this trend is also emerging in Australia, where more and more people see nuclear as a vital tool in our fight against climate change.
With time running out to meet our decarbonization goals, Australia must begin, without delay, the social and legal groundwork to prepare for the future deployment of nuclear energy. If we are serious about decarbonizing our energy system in the face of growing climate risks and uncertain future energy demand, failing to explore nuclear energy as a solution is a risk we cannot afford to take.
The first, most urgent step is to lift the federal prohibition on nuclear energy. As the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) makes clear in its Integrated System Plan (ISP), “The ISP does not model nuclear power as it is not government policy and, in fact, is prohibited by Australia’s current laws.” This ban is a roadblock preventing a serious examination of nuclear energy’s potential to stabilise Australia’s energy mix and avoid future energy shortages.
Fortunately, Australia already has the foundations in place. We possess world-class nuclear science and safety agencies, and we can draw on the expertise of the US, Canada, and the UK, who are advancing nuclear technologies as part of their own climate strategies. By following the internationally recognised IAEA Milestones Approach, Australia can adopt the best practices to assess nuclear energy’s suitability and prepare for its safe, efficient deployment.
The federal government must also urgently engage the public with factual, science-based information about the role nuclear energy can play in mitigating climate change. Nuclear’s low environmental impact, proven safety record, and capacity to generate long-term, well-paid jobs make it a key player in the just transition we need. Without swift action, we risk missing an opportunity to ensure energy security, protect our climate, and provide Australians with a clean and sustainable future.
Media inquiries: Tyrone D'Lisle tyrone.dlisle@weplanet.org