AUKUS submarine plan faces critical scrutiny from inquiry

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 3 Nov, 18:22 · Archive

A community inquiry is expected to release a critical report on Australia's multi-billion dollar AUKUS defence pact.

The AUKUS defence pact between Australia, the US and the UK is facing critical scrutiny as a community inquiry prepares to release its final report on Wednesday. Former Labor minister Peter Garrett and former Australian Defence Force chief Admiral Chris Barrie are expected to outline shortfalls in the $386 billion project during an address to the National Press Club in Canberra. The crowd-funded AUKUS Public Inquiry has held hearings since June with input from former and current political leaders.

Garrett said that without public support for the deal, Australians struggling with the cost-of-living crisis may view the spending going to the US and UK unfavourably. He also raised concerns about the submarines generating high-level nuclear waste that would remain Australia's responsibility, and noted the project would help fund overseas shipyard construction.

The AUKUS pact was agreed in 2021 under former Liberal prime minister Scott Morrison and the Biden administration. The defence program has faced increased scrutiny in recent months after the United States confirmed it will only provide the Australian Defence Force with second-hand Virginia-class submarines. A University of New South Wales report has also warned of major workforce strain across the Royal Australian Navy as it prepares to introduce over a dozen new warships in the next 15 years.

AUKUS submarine plan faces critical scrutiny from inquiry — Image: The West Australian

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How it is being reported

Former minister and defence chief to dissect AUKUS planMore questions are being asked about a flagship submarine treaty following a months-long public inquiry and as naval experts flag broader sustainability issues.The West Australian · 3 Nov, 18:02
Former minister and defence chief to dissect AUKUS planMore questions are being asked about a flagship submarine treaty following a months-long public inquiry and as naval experts flag broader sustainability issues.Perth Now · 3 Nov, 18:02

In this story: Peter Garrett · Admiral Chris Barrie · Australia · United States · United Kingdom · Royal Australian Navy · Australian Defence Force

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