They will be attending a public meeting at Hill End this morning, where a full house is expected. If the facility gets the green light, it would manage Australia’s low and intermediate level waste produced by medical and industrial applications.

According to the Federal Government, Australia does not produce – and this facility could not store – high level waste.

In November 2015, the Federal Government announced six possible sites across the nation, including the controversial Hill End location, which was previously listed as Sallys Flat.

With six nominated landowners identified, the 120 days to March 11 has been set aside to talk to the surrounding communities about the issues and opportunities associated with the proposal.

The government is only likely to accept two or three nominations for the shortlist, from landowners whose community has shown it is willing to continue discussions in the next phase of the process.

The next phase would involve geological studies and surveying, and an assessment of the size and shape of a significant community benefit package.

The detailed proposals would then be designed with, and put to, the respective landholders and communities for discussion and support. 

A decision on the preferred site by government would follow the conclusion of the shortlisting and detailed proposal phases, and is expected by the end of this year. 

After this, the Department would take the preferred site and plans through a detailed application and consultation process, which would include the independent nuclear regulator, ARPANSA. 

“Given that we are early in what is necessarily a multi-year process, it is no surprise that there are a wide range of views, nor that they change as people have more time to think about, and learn about, the proposal,” Michael Sheldrick from the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science said.

“We will be meeting groups, including councils, action groups, community groups, as well as neighbours, landowners and others who have an interest in the project.

“The discussions will include information about how the material will be safely stored and transported, and suggestions about the size and shape of a community benefits package that would be available.

“No matter where it goes, this will be an extraordinarily safe facility, with no impacts on air, water or ground quality, and will be overseen by a strong, independent nuclear regulator.”

Anyone who wishes to meet with the Department is asked to call 1800 682 704 or emailradioactivewaste@industry.gov.au. 

Those seeking more information and answers to frequently asked questions are asked to visit www.radioactivewaste.gov.au