The Nuclear-Powered Submarine Regulatory Design (NPSRD) was established in May 2023 by the Department of Defence to develop Australia’s capacity for independently assuring nuclear safety and radiological protection across the nation’s nuclear-powered submarine program. The NPSRD is responsible for designing the Australian Naval Nuclear Power Safety Regulator (ANNPSR), a new statutory agency set to commence operations in late 2025. ANNPSR will oversee the safety, security, and environmental protection of nuclear-powered submarines operated by the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), ensuring compliance with stringent regulatory standards.
The NPSRD has issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking input from domestic and international industry stakeholders regarding technical capabilities, products, and services that could support ANNPSR’s establishment and long-term regulatory functions. This RFI will help Defence understand the existing market landscape, identify key industry players, and inform the development of future procurement strategies.
Through this RFI, Defence is seeking information on industry capabilities to support tANNPSR in key areas, including but not limited to:
- Scientific Support Services – Capabilities related to environmental protection, radiation health monitoring, and seismic qualification of nuclear facilities.
- Engineering Services – Expertise in nuclear physics, reactor design, fuel management, radiation shielding, naval nuclear propulsion plant fuel technology, primary circuit chemistry, berth structural engineering, and waste management.
- Regulatory Compliance and Assurance Services – Experience in regulatory frameworks, compliance, and quality assurance processes to ensure that naval nuclear-powered submarines and supporting infrastructure meet stringent safety and security standards.
- Nuclear Safety Training and Development – Ability to provide in-country training programs focused on regulatory compliance, nuclear safety, and technical expertise for personnel working in the Australian nuclear-powered submarine program.
Submissions should provide insights into existing industry capabilities, prior experience in regulatory support, and potential solutions that could aid ANNPSR’s development. Defence is seeking input on an organisation’s capacity to deliver regulatory services, including relevant accreditations and certifications. Additionally, Defence is requesting details on workforce expertise, technology solutions, and training methodologies that could contribute to a robust and sustainable regulatory body. Respondents are encouraged to outline their approach to environmental and radiological health impact assessments, as well as their ability to support compliance, safety, and risk management within the nuclear industry.
The closing time and date for responses will remain open until the 27th of March 2025.
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