The occasional public debate about nuclear energy has historically been hijacked by fear and falsehoods. Historical disasters and the Simpsons have educated us.
Nuclear sources are used to produce energy in 31 countries around the world. But Australia is not one of them. We are the only country in the G20 that has a ban on nuclear energy.
The new Labor Government, in its first month, has dismissed the notion of discussing nuclear altogether, batting down open public discussion for innovative solutions.
Global events and local politics have shone a spotlight on the fragility of our nation’s energy supply. Now more than ever, we need to explore solutions to secure baseload power to ensure we can continue to turn the lights on and heat our homes.
It is my view that nuclear energy ought to be explored as an option for safe, clean and sustainable baseload energy for our nation. We’ve come a long way since Chernobyl, and it’s time we put this option on the drawing board.
If we are to charge to net zero emissions by 2050, nuclear power ought to be considered as a part of a technology-solution approach.
This week National Party leader David Littleproud called on the new prime minister to come with the National Party in leading the conversation on nuclear. I support him wholeheartedly and urge the Labor Government to get real about technology solutions that would secure reliable electricity for Australians.
It’s time we consider the facts and be open about all the information and address anxieties.
Having this conversation is a matter of courage.
At the start of a parliamentary term The Nationals are opening the debate and asking the questions.
If the new government is fair dinkum about a sustainable and affordable energy supply, then it will engage in the conversation. How serious it really is remains to be seen.
