Australian Nuclear and Technology Organisation (ANSTO)

Presentation by Miles Apperley, Group Executive - Nuclear Operations, Safety and Security, ANSTO Australian Nuclear Association ANA2025 Conference on AEDT Friday 10th October 2025 at the UTS Aerial Function Centre, Level 7, UTS Building 10, 235 Jones Street, Ultimo, NSW 2007 Abstract For more than 70 years, ANSTO has been at the heart of Australia’s nuclear capability, serving as the nation’s knowledge centre for nuclear science and technology. With deep expertise in the safe, secure, and sustainable stewardship of complex nuclear infrastructure, including the OPAL multi-purpose reactor, nuclear medicine production facilities, and programs in waste management and decommissioning, ANSTO is a trusted leader in nuclear technology. The past year has been one of significant achievement, reinforcing ANSTO’s role as a reliable steward of critical national capability. This includes the successful completion of critical upgrades to the OPAL reactor, the commencement of the safe decommissioning of the HIFAR reactor, and the delivery of a complex spent fuel shipment - each milestone representing both technical excellence and ANSTO’s commitment to safety, security, and international best practice. These outcomes reflect the depth of in-house expertise and strong partnerships across government and industry. In a time of renewed global focus on nuclear technologies, including with the AUKUS trilateral partnership and the nuclear-powered submarine program, ANSTO’s expertise is increasingly critical. Our landmark infrastructure not only supports world-leading translational research but also underpins Australia’s contributions to public health, industry, defence, and the environment. ANSTO is also shaping the nuclear workforce of the future, by building national nuclear literacy through tailored education and training programs, including through the Basics of Nuclear Literacy, and the Senior Officer and Executive training courses. These courses are designed to foster informed decision-making, enhance understanding of the strategic context, and prepare Australia for the challenges and opportunities of a nuclear future. By extending training to government, industry, and broader community audiences, ANSTO is also helping to cultivate the skilled workforce and societal understanding required to sustain nuclear capability over the long term. As we approach the 20th anniversary of OPAL in 2026, this keynote will reflect on the enduring impact of ANSTO’s stewardship, highlight our role in advancing nuclear technology, and explore how Australia can continue to benefit from nuclear science in a rapidly evolving national and global context