A retired Australian Army colonel has stated that Port Kembla, in New South Wales, is a suitable location for a nuclear submarine base as part of the AUKUS pact. The assessment, reported on May 8, 2026, highlights the port's existing deep-water facilities and proximity to strategic shipping lanes.
The colonel, whose name has not been disclosed in available reports, emphasized that Port Kembla's industrial infrastructure could support the maintenance and docking needs of nuclear-powered submarines. The site is already a major coal export hub, with rail and road connections that could be adapted for military logistics.
The AUKUS agreement, signed in 2021 between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, involves Australia acquiring nuclear-powered submarines. The selection of a base location has been a subject of debate, with environmental and security concerns raised by local communities and political groups.
No official government announcement has been made regarding the final selection of a submarine base. The Australian government continues to assess multiple sites, including Port Kembla, Brisbane, and Adelaide, for their suitability.
