Treaties Committee to examine UK Nuclear-Powered Submarine Partnership at public hearing

THE Joint Standing Committee on Treaties will hold a public hearing today for its inquiry into the Nuclear-Powered Submarine Partnership and Collaboration Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The committee will examine how this agreement strengthens Australia’s defence capabilities while also enhancing interoperability with the UK. The inquiry will explore the treaty’s legally binding framework for the transfer of nuclear-powered submarine technology, personnel training, and industrial collaboration.

Committee Chair, Lisa Chesters MP, said, "This agreement represents a major step forward in Australia’s bilateral defence relationship with the United Kingdom. It builds on decades of cooperation and reflects a shared commitment to regional stability and technological advancement.

"While it forms part of the broader AUKUS framework, this treaty is unique in its scope and ambition. The committee will assess how it supports Australia's long-term security interests and contributes to our sovereign capability through a direct partnership with the UK."

The committee will hear evidence from the Friends of the Earth Australia, Friends of the Earth Adelaide, the Australian Conservation Foundation, the Medical Association for Prevention of War Australia, Serco Asia Pacific, the Australian Submarine Agency, the Department of Defence, the Attorney-General’s Department and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade at the public hearing.

Public hearing details

Date: Thursday, 2 October 2025
Time: 1.30pm-5pm AEST
Location: Committee Room 2R1, Parliament House Canberra

The hearing will be broadcast live at aph.gov.au/live.

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