25 Accepted

The UK must throw its full support behind Australia’s development of new infrastructure in Perth,...

Recommendation
The UK must throw its full support behind Australia’s development of new infrastructure in Perth, particularly the new Defence Precinct at Henderson. Close working between the UK and Australia at government and industry level will enable the UK to share its experience in constructing and operating its own nuclear sustainment infrastructure, assisting Australia in expediting progress and allowing both countries to maximise the benefits to be gained by operating a common fleet. (Recommendation, Paragraph 112) Export controls
Government Response Summary
The government welcomes the assessment and is committed to sharing its decades of experience in nuclear sustainment infrastructure, including workforce development, regulatory frameworks, and infrastructure delivery, to support Australia's progress.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government Accepted
The Government welcomes the Committee’s assessment that we must support Australia’s development of critical submarine infrastructure in Perth, including the Defence Precinct at Henderson, as a foundational element of AUKUS delivery. This infrastructure will be essential to establishing a safe, sustainable, and sovereign nuclear-powered submarine enterprise in Australia. Close cooperation between the UK and Australia—across government, industry, and the wider Defence Nuclear Enterprise—will be key to success. The UK brings decades of experience in the design, construction, and operation of nuclear sustainment infrastructure, and is committed to sharing this expertise to support Australia’s progress, including in workforce development, regulatory frameworks, and infrastructure delivery. A closely aligned approach will enable both countries to maximise the benefits of operating a common fleet, strengthening interoperability, resilience, and long-term sustainment. This cooperation is central to delivering AUKUS at pace and ensuring the partnership delivers enduring strategic advantage for all three nations. Export Controls
Addressee Bodies
Ministry of Defence
Timeline
Recommendation age 0.3 yrs
Report published 28 Apr 2026