Australia has reached a significant milestone in its naval capabilities with the establishment of the Australian Naval Nuclear Power Safety Regulator. This new statutory agency will oversee the regulatory framework for the country’s conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarine program. The Albanese Government introduced this agency to ensure the highest standards of nuclear safety and radiological protection are maintained.
Mr. Michael Drake has been appointed as the inaugural Director-General of the regulatory body. With over a decade of experience in maritime regulation and a background that includes serving in the Royal Australian Navy, Mr. Drake brings valuable expertise to this pivotal role. His most recent position was as the Executive Director of Operations for the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.
Headquartered in Canberra, the agency has commenced operations with a team of more than 70 trained staff. It has established connections with the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) to ensure a seamless transition in regulatory oversight. The agency will also maintain personnel in both the United States and United Kingdom to leverage a broad range of skillsets for informed regulatory decisions.
Regulatory Framework and Future Plans
The agency has already put in place the Australian Naval Nuclear Power Safety Regulations 2025, which govern licensing for facilities and materials related to naval nuclear propulsion. This regulatory framework has been developed following extensive consultations, including formal public engagement in July 2025.
Future regulations will focus on Australia’s acquisition and operation of Virginia class submarines and the construction of SSN-AUKUS submarines. The regulatory standards established draw on over 70 years of safe nuclear propulsion practices from the United States and United Kingdom, customized for Australia’s specific operational environment.
ARPANSA will continue to provide scientific and technical support to the new regulator, ensuring consistent nuclear and radiological safety across both military and civilian activities in Australia. Licenses previously issued by ARPANSA, including those related to the Controlled Industrial Facility at HMAS Stirling, will now transition to the new agency.
Statements from Leadership
During the announcement, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles expressed pride in this development, stating, “Today marks another important step in the delivery of Australia’s conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines.” He acknowledged the efforts of all involved in establishing a robust legislative and regulatory framework, congratulating Mr. Drake on his appointment.
Mr. Drake also highlighted the agency’s critical role, saying, “I am proud to be leading the Australian Naval Nuclear Power Safety Regulator and recognize its important role in delivering Australia’s conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines.” He emphasized the agency’s commitment to working collaboratively with all Australian stakeholders and AUKUS partners to uphold top-tier standards of safety and protection.
As Australia continues to advance its naval capabilities, the establishment of the Australian Naval Nuclear Power Safety Regulator marks a crucial step toward ensuring that the highest safety standards are integrated into its defense strategy.
