On Time, On Budget: What Canada Gets Right on Nuclear?

In this episode, nuclear industry leader and Canadian trailblazer Tracy Primeau re-joins the CIS to share a compelling insider’s view of Canada’s nuclear energy success—and what Australia could learn from it.

In conversation with CIS Director of Energy Research Aidan Morrison, Primeau reflects on her 35-year career. As a member of the Nipissing First Nation, she offers a rare dual perspective: a deep technical understanding of nuclear power and a powerful voice for Indigenous participation in energy development.

Together, they explore key questions shaping Australia’s energy debate:

• What’s behind Canada’s on-time, on-budget nuclear rollout?

• How did Indigenous communities become partners in nuclear waste solutions?

• Can Australia achieve clean, affordable energy without sacrificing reliability?

From the potential of small modular reactors to lessons in energy economics, workforce transition, and community trust, Primo delivers an inspiring case for nuclear as a clean, scalable solution for Australia’s energy future. A timely and deeply human conversation at the intersection of technology, policy, and culture.