Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp downplays base as Wollongong MP objects
A nuclear submarine base would create 3,000 to 5,000 jobs but eliminate the container terminal project.
Federal Labor MPs are split on a potential nuclear submarine base at Newcastle or Wollongong. Labor MP for Shellharbour, Anna Watson, spoke out last week against the prospect of a base at Port Kembla.
She said the overwhelming majority of her community were opposed to the project. Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp downplays concerns, noting no decision is expected until the 2030s.
A crowdfunded independent inquiry led by former Labor minister Peter Garrett is examining the AUKUS submarine deal. Newcastle council has maintained the city's 1982 nuclear-free declaration.
A base would create between 3,000 and 5,000 highly skilled jobs over coming decades. But state documents show it would eliminate the port's container terminal and likely drop property values.
The independent report is due in late October.
- 3,000 to 5,000
- Potential jobs created
- almost 150 million dollars
- Estimated regional benefit
- end of 2030s
- Decision timing
- late October
- Inquiry report due
Why it mattersThousands of skilled jobs hinge on the decision, but it threatens the port's future and sparks community safety concerns.
AustraliaNewcastle and Wollongong residents face a choice between economic growth and their community's safety and established character.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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