The Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) today welcomed significant progress towards the establishment of a National Radioactive Waste Management Facility.
At the moment, radioactive waste is held at more than 100 locations across Australia, including hospitals, medical centres, mining sites and ANSTO.
Holding such material in a single, appropriate facility is international best practice. International experience is that their establishment takes time, consultation and perseverance, but can lead to an excellent outcome.
“ANSTO is custodian of Australia’s nuclear expertise and also safely manages radioactive waste, 80 per cent of which is associated with potentially life-saving nuclear medicine,” said the CEO of ANSTO, Dr Adi Paterson.
“One in two Australians will need nuclear medicine during their lifetime, and along with the significant benefits of Australia having access to secure medicine supplies, comes a responsibility to deal with the by-products.
“The Australian obligation to safely deal with waste also extends from the work of other science and research organisations, medical facilities and the mining industry.
“International experience is that a national facility can be sited and built after a good selection process to both find an appropriate physical site, and secure community support. That’s what we are seeing here.
“As home of Australia’s nuclear capabilities, ANSTO will continue to provide the Government with technical expertise and advice during this important process.”
For further information:
On plans for a National Radioactive Waste Management Facility: www.industry.gov.au
For more information on waste management: www.managingnuclearwaste.gov.au
Safely managing Australia's radioactive waste (video)
Safely managing Australia's radioactive waste (brochure)
Safely managing Australia's radioactive waste (video)
Safely managing Australia's radioactive waste (brochure)
Media contact - Phil McCall 0438 619 987