Nuclear power has been illegal in Australia since the early 2000s, but 22-year-old former Miss America Grace Stanke is advocating for a change. Currently visiting for over a week, she promotes nuclear energy at events held by Nuclear for Australia, aligning with the Coalition, led by Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, as they push for nuclear plans ahead of the 2025 federal election.
Stanke, who holds a degree in nuclear engineering, argues that Australia can follow in the footsteps of the US, home to 94 operational nuclear reactors, to establish its own facilities. The Coalition’s proposal includes constructing taxpayer-funded reactors at seven sites, with the first expected to be operational by 2035.
Stanke emphasises the benefits of nuclear energy, asserting it is safe, effective, and provides high-paying jobs. Despite concerns over emissions and the length of the construction process, she believes Australia can build reactors in a decade, citing the successful nine-year timeline for the OPAL reactor at Lucas Heights.
While she faces opposition from groups and individuals wary of nuclear energy’s risks, Stanke aims to foster dialogue on the potential of nuclear power in Australia, asserting, “This deserves a fair discussion.”