Federal government to hold Nanango, Qld hearings on LNP’s nuclear plan

South Burnett residents are getting the chance to be heard on a proposal to open a nuclear power plant in the region if the controversial proposal put forward by the LNP ahead of the next federal election gains traction.

Nanango and South Burnett residents are getting a chance to have their say on the possibility of the region being home to a proposed nuclear power plant as the federal government explores the controversial energy source’s viability. (Photo by Matthew Hatcher / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)

Nanango and South Burnett residents are getting a chance to have their say on the possibility of the region being home to a proposed nuclear power plant, as the federal government explores the controversial energy source’s viability.

Federal government representatives are heading to the South Burnett town to gauge thoughts on the locale being earmarked as the home of a possible nuclear site should calls for the power source to become part of the country’s energy mix gain traction.

The federal LNP has proposed nuclear as an answer for Australia’s energy future ahead of the next federal election.

The Tarong coal-fired power plant, located 18km southwest of the town, was identified as one of several locations across the country which could serve as the possible home of a nuclear reactor.

Possible use of nuclear power remains murky due to a nationwide ban on its use as an energy source, which would need to be overturned.

ETTERS, PENNSYLVANIA – SEPTEMBER 20: The Three Mile Island Nuclear Plant is seen on September 20, 2024 from across the river in Etters, Pennsylvania. Microsoft and Constellation Energy reached a deal that would restart Unit 1 of the Three Mile Island Nuclear plant, which was previously retired in 2019. Matthew Hatcher/Getty Images/AFP (Photo by Matthew Hatcher / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)

The LNP has proposed converting coal-fired power plants to nuclear power plants in its pitch.

Hunter MP Dan Repacholi, who is chair of the Select Committee on Nuclear Energy, said Nanango was one of three Queensland locations to host public hearings, alongside Biloela and Brisbane.

Mr Repacholi said the committee had “prioritised visiting towns that have been earmarked for potential nuclear plants so that we have a first-hand understanding of the communities that may be impacted”.

“The future of Australia’s energy supply is of critical, national significance,” he said.

“We are eager to hear from a range of stakeholders about the opportunities, logistics and impacts of potentially deploying nuclear power in Australia.”

The hearings will be available to access online.

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Submissions to the committee can be made until Friday, November 15.

Further public hearings in Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales and Western Australia will take place in December, and details including the terms of reference will be available online.

The Nanango hearing is scheduled for Friday, November 15, at the Nanango Services Club at 24-26 Henry St.