Public Support for AUKUS Inquiry Grows
Australians have shown overwhelming support for a public inquiry into the AUKUS submarine agreement, following its announcement at Parliament House in Canberra earlier this week.
Since the announcement on Tuesday, more than $85,000 has been raised through crowdfunding and private donations to support the inquiry’s hearings. Over 100 written submissions have already been received from the public.
Inquiry Secretariat Co-Chair Major General (Retired) Mike Smith highlighted the significance of the public’s response, stating, “To raise these sums of money and receive so many submissions in the first 72 hours since launching tells us that there is widespread community concern about this $368 billion submarine deal.”
Scheduled Public Hearings Across Australia
The inquiry will commence its hearings next Thursday in Melbourne, with high-profile Australians expected to provide evidence. Additional hearings are planned in Fremantle on 30th June, Adelaide on 16th and 17th July, Sydney on 11th August, Port Kembla on 12th August, and Canberra on 1st and 2nd September.
Mike Smith further commented, “It’s clear Australians really want a Public Inquiry into this project, to consider if AUKUS will keep us safe and at what cost. We have also been encouraged with the requests to give evidence from defence experts, former ministers, academics and ordinary Australians.”
The inquiry aims to address the community’s questions and concerns regarding the implications of the AUKUS deal on national security and economic impact. The Secretariat hopes additional hearing dates in other cities will be feasible as the process progresses.
The initial hearing in Melbourne marks the start of a nationwide examination of the AUKUS agreement, reflecting a significant interest from the Australian public in the details and consequences of this international pact.
Major General Smith emphasised the importance of public participation, noting that the level of engagement demonstrates a strong desire for transparency and accountability. “The Australian public deserves a say and deserves answers to the many legitimate questions,” he stated.
The inquiry has also received numerous requests for participation from a diverse range of individuals, including defence experts, former ministers, academics, and ordinary Australians. This variety highlights the widespread interest and concern about the AUKUS deal.
Last updated: 29 June 2026, 11:53 am
