The atom comes to Australia: Reflections on the Australian nuclear programme, 1953 and 1993

Abstract

Within the compass of a single lifetime, Australia's affair with the ‘atom’ has changed out of all recognition. Forty years ago, uranium mining and nuclear power were welcomed with excitement and anticipation ‐ bringing boundless benefits to the national defense and economic development of the already ‘lucky country”. Today, following an enquiry into the proposed replacement of Australia's research reactor (HIFAR.), the public contemplates not a litany of blessings, but a history of disappointments. This paper will chart the trajectories of hope and expectation that have accompanied the atom's history in Australia, and will suggest some of the implications of the reactor review for the ‘nuclear future’ in this country.