Linda Reynolds

The AUKUS inquiry opens its WA hearing in Fremantle today, Monday 29 June 2026, with former federal Defence Minister Linda Reynolds due to give evidence.

The hearing will take place at The University of Notre Dame in Building ND46/209 Lecture Theatre. The venue is in Building ND46 on the corner of Phillimore Street and Henry Street, Fremantle.

Proceedings run from 10am to 8:30pm. An evening session is scheduled so members of the public can attend after work.

Before the hearing begins, Peter Garrett and AUKUS Inquiry Commissioners will be available for a doorstop interview at 9:45am.

The media alert says former WA Premier Carmen Lawrence will join Garrett and other commissioners for the WA hearings of the Public Inquiry into AUKUS.

Who is appearing

This morning’s speakers include Reynolds, former head of the Force Development and Analysis Division at the Department of Defence Dr Mike Gilligan, and former head of public health in Perth Dr Colin Hughes.

In the afternoon, experts from Global Nuclear Security Partners and The Conservation Council are due to give evidence, along with other speakers.

According to the media alert, the Public Inquiry into AUKUS is taking submissions from the public and subject matter experts.

Meanwhile, the inquiry is holding public hearings in most capital cities.

The alert describes AUKUS as a $368 billion deal. It says the inquiry wants answers to critical questions and is also looking at other options.

The organisers wrote: “There has never been a more critical time to interrogate the $368 billion deal that is known as AUKUS.”

They also wrote: “This nation-wide inquiry is seeking answers to critical questions, and equally importantly, hoping to find other options and potentially an off-ramp.”

People who cannot attend in person can watch the proceedings on the inquiry’s YouTube livestream.