Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s address to the Lowy Institute in Sydney was disrupted by anti-nuclear protesters, an incident that underscores the urgent need for a rational, evidence-based debate on Australia’s energy future. Nuclear for Australia condemns the use of fear-driven tactics and calls for a mature conversation grounded in facts, not emotion.
The interruption of Mr. Dutton’s speech, where he was outlining the Coalition’s foreign policy principles, highlights the challenges of discussing nuclear energy in Australia. Protesters accused the Opposition Leader of misleading the public about costs, yet their actions drowned out an opportunity for substantive dialogue. This is precisely why Nuclear for Australia advocates for a shift away from fear-mongering towards a focus on data and reason.
“Nuclear energy is a proven, zero-emissions technology powering 32 countries worldwide, yet Australia remains the only G20 nation not embracing or moving towards it,” said Will Shackel, Founder of Nuclear for Australia. “Incidents like today’s demonstrate how misinformation and emotional outbursts stifle progress. We need a debate based on facts—costs, safety, and environmental benefits—not ideological opposition.”
Evidence shows nuclear power can complement renewables and gas, delivering reliable, affordable, and clean energy. Modern nuclear plants offer technical advantages like grid stability and long-term cost competitiveness, with lifespans of up to 80 years. The Coalition’s proposal to integrate nuclear into Australia’s energy mix deserves scrutiny, but it must be informed by science and global experience, not disrupted by slogans.
Nuclear for Australia calls on all stakeholders—policymakers, industry, and the public—to engage in an open-minded discussion about how nuclear energy can secure our economic and environmental future. Today’s events only reinforce the need to move beyond fear and embrace evidence-based policy for the benefit of all Australians.
Key Facts:
Get the facts on nuclear energy: https://www.nuclearforaustralia.com/the_facts
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Nuclear for Australia is a grassroots movement with over 100,000 supporters.
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