Description
This paper interrogates the multiple dimensions of Australia’s stewardship of weapons-grade uranium. In September 2021, AUKUS was announced - a trilateral security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom (UK), and the United States (US). Most notably, Pillar One of the AUKUS deal comprises the exchange of nuclear-powered submarines and highly enriched or “weapons grade” uranium (HEU) to Australia. The transfer of HEU to a non-nuclear weapons state (NNWS) is unprecedented and has inspired debate about the impact of AUKUS on an already stressed non-proliferation regime. Therefore, this paper interrogates the multiple dimensions of Australia’s responsible nuclear stewardship of these materials. This paper utilises a document analysis to examine social and institutional challenges, such as attaining a social licence domestically, the role of nuclear legacies, and international commitments. It also presents recommendations on how Australia might address these challenges. Overall, Australia will have new responsibilities to address - that extend beyond technical and operational factors - if it is to be a responsible nuclear steward of HEU.
