At the Qld State ALP Conference on the weekend of 11th/12th June 2023 in Mackay, delegates voted overwhelmingly (229 to 140) for a motion critical of the dangers of nuclear power and opposing nuclear submarines in Qld waters. The motion was originally initiated by the Electrical Trades Union Qld/NT Branch.
The motion reads:
Anti-nuclear
Therefore, we move that the 2023 Queensland Labor Party Conference adopt the following motion:
1. The Queensland Labor Party categorically opposes the manufacture/construction of nuclear-powered/armed submarines or vessels in Queensland, including but not limited to Brisbane or any other Queensland port current or future port facility. This opposition is based on concerns over safety, environmental impact, and public sentiment.
2. The Queensland Labor Party will actively engage in public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the potential risks and consequences associated with nuclear-powered/armed submarines or vessels. This initiative aims to foster informed public discourse and encourage community support for the opposition f such vessels in Queensland waters.
3. The Queensland Labor Party is called upon to immediately reject any proposal to store nuclear waste generated by the proposed submarines or any other military nuclear waste in this state.
4. The state government is called upon to, in this term of government introduce amendments to the Nuclear Facilities Prohibition Act 2007 and any other legislation required to meet commitments outlined in 1-4 above.
By adopting this motion, the Queensland Labor Party reaffirms its commitment to the safety, environmental sustainability, and public sentiment of our state. We recognise the need for clear and unequivocal opposition to nuclear-powered submarines or ships in Queensland waters and call upon the Queensland Labor Government to publicly declare and commit to this stance.
We believe that this position aligns with the values and aspirations of our party and will contribute to the well-being and future prosperity of Queensland. We can make a difference and ensure we continue to live in a state that rejects the use of nuclear power as a source of energy by also ensuring we do not expose the people of this state to its toxic legacy through military use.