ANSTO’s Basics in Nuclear Literacy Short Course is the ideal introduction to Australia’s nuclear capabilities and since its inception in 2023, has become a highly effective way to orientate hundreds of Government staff moving into roles that are connected to our nuclear programs, including the Nuclear-Powered Submarine (NPS) program.
The one-day course includes Australia’s nuclear history and an, introduction to our current nuclear operations and regulatory frameworks.
The course also covers the basics of nuclear safety, emphasising the critical measures and procedures in place to protect people and the environment from the potential hazards associated with nuclear operations. Participants learn about radiation protection, emergency preparedness, and the management of radioactive materials, including radioactive waste.
Additionally, the program delves into the fundamentals of nuclear science, exploring topics such as nuclear reactions, radioactive decay, and the applications of nuclear technology in various fields, including for health, industry, and research.
By understanding these aspects, Government staff can better appreciate the importance of maintaining a robust nuclear safety culture and the role it plays in supporting Australia's nuclear initiatives.
Dr Miles Apperley is the Group Executive of ANSTO’s Safety, Security and Stewardship Group who leads the team that developed the course in March ‘23 says, “Whilst Australia has a relatively small nuclear footprint, we are a highly sophisticated nuclear nation. The course is an ideal way to introduce the significant nuclear capabilities we have in this country to both state and federal Government staff moving into new roles to support our national nuclear programs, including AUKUS”.
A highlight of the course is the VIP tour of OPAL, Australia's only operational nuclear reactor located in Sydney. The OPALmultipurpose reactor is a state-of-the-art facility is central to Australia’s current nuclear capabilities and plays a critical role in producing medical isotopes, conducting scientific research, and supporting industrial applications. During the tour, participants will have the opportunity to see the reactor in operation and learn about its design, safety features and functionality.
Also included is a tour of ANSTO's low-level and intermediate-level radioactive waste stores. Managing radioactive waste is a critical aspect of nuclear safety, and this tour offers participants an in-depth understanding of the processes and facilities involved in safely storing and handling radioactive materials.
Participants are saying..
“The training was intelligent, positive and engaging.”
“The facilitators have an ability to engage everyone and explain complex concepts - simply.”
“The course… covered both technical information and the structure and nature of the nuclear industry in Australia.”
“Above and beyond what I was expecting.”
Dr Apperley added, “This course is another terrific example of how ANSTO is supporting Government including the NPS program, through elevating the nuclear literacy of staff moving into nuclear related roles for the first time. This is all about sharing our expertise and knowledge in order to uplift Australia’s nuclear workforce and helping to maintaining the highest standards of nuclear safety and operational excellence”.
The ANSTO Basics in Nuclear Literacy Short Course runs regularly and is part of a program of education courses ANSTO delivers. Alongside the Basics in Nuclear Literacy Short Course, ANSTO offers the Senior Officer and Executive training on request for senior leaders and decision-makers moving into roles within the nuclear industry. This course is designed to help ensure that the ‘nuclear context’ is understood by leaders and decision makers across a whole spectrum of a complex nuclear organisation.
For more information about what’s available, visit here.