Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation to appear before COVID-19 inquiry

A parliamentary inquiry into the impact of COVID-19 on Australia’s defence, trade and international relations

will hear from the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) at its next public hearing.

Senator David Fawcett, Chair of the Parliament’s Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee, says ANSTO is a leading producer and exporter of some of the most important nuclear medicines used in diagnosing and treating cancers, heart disease, and neurological disorders.

Senator Fawcett said “ANSTO has worked hard to ensure Australians have ongoing access to vital nuclear medicines during the COVID-19 pandemic, but it is also doing important work in the processing of rare earth metals, an area that has great potential to enhance Australia’s sovereign capabilities.”

Witnesses from ANSTO will give evidence on their work in nuclear medicine, and their work in international forums like the International Atomic Energy Agency, as well as in rare earth mineral processing.

Full terms of reference for the inquiry are on the Committee website.

Public hearing details

Date: Tuesday 11 August

Time: 4:30m – 5.30pm AEST

Location: By teleconference

The hearings will be audio streamed live at aph.gov.au/live

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