Barrister accuses Albanese government of bullying over nuclear waste FOI fight

Anti-corruption barrister Geoffrey Watson has denounced the Albanese administration for employing “bully boy” tactics in its challenge to a Freedom of Information decision that would reveal potential sites for AUKUS submarine nuclear waste storage. The government, through the Department of Industry, Science and Resources, is seeking to make former South Australian senator Rex Patrick shoulder legal expenses that could total $300,000 if he continues the case and loses.

Defence Minister Richard Marles says site selection will take decades and could involve current or future Defence land, with several states already indicating willingness to host a facility. Cross-bench senators warned the approach could set a dangerous precedent for an already strained FOI system, and Senator Jacqui Lambie intends to table legislation obliging the government to cover reasonable costs in FOI appeals. Watson likened the strategy to corporate pressure tactics that force smaller litigants into settlement, arguing it undermines public scrutiny. The dispute also touches a separate FOI challenge concerning the Foreign Investment Review Board.