AUKUS dangers not being managed, public in the dark on nuclear risk: Carmen Lawrence

Public Inquiry into AUKUS

Media Alert

Friday 26 June 2026

AUKUS dangers not being managed, public in the dark on nuclear risk: Carmen Lawrence

The WA public deserves to be informed about disaster preparedness and what they should do in the event of a local nuclear incident arising from the AUKUS project, according to former WA Premier Dr. Carmen Lawrence.

“A basic requirement of any functioning democracy is transparency from Government.

Western Australia will be a key host and home to AUKUS nuclear submarines and a lot of associated sensitive infrastructure.

“So far, we have heard literally nothing from either the federal or the state government about what we should do if there is a nuclear incident or if we are targeted.”

Dr. Lawrence said that the lack of information was highly concerning.

“Are our first responders being trained in how to manage these unprecedented threats?

“What are the evacuation plans for local citizens in the event of an emergency?

“We simply don’t know the answer to these questions and that is unacceptable.”

The recently announced national Public Inquiry into AUKUS will hold hearings next Monday and Tuesday in Perth and Freemantle, with local experts including the medical community expected to give evidence.  The Terms of Reference for the Inquiry can be found here and the website here.

The Inquiry has already taken over 300 written submissions and further public hearings will be conducted across Australia.  The public are welcome to attend the WA hearings next week.

Dr. Carmen Lawrence is available for media interview today or over the weekend.

Media contact: Phil Davey 0414 867 188, [email protected]