Dutton to propose possible nuclear neighbourhoods

* Despite a damning report on the cost of establishing nuclear power, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton is expected to announce at least six potential plant locations. He says they would be best built in regions where existing coal and gas facilities have operated.

HUNTER VALLEY, NSW

Former coal-fired thermal station Liddell produced up to 2000MW of power before being decommissioned in 2023. Predominantly known for mining and energy, the nearby town of Muswellbrook is also popular for its gourmet food and wine, and is home to 12,500 residents.

* LATROBE VALLEY, VIC

Yallourn Power Station once featured six plants but only one 1450MW coal-fired thermal plant remains. Commissioned in 1928, the facility sits east by the Latrobe River in the former town of Yallourn, which was initially established to service the plant and has since closed.

* ANGLESEA, VIC

The former Anglesea Power Plant was capable of producing 150MW until decommissioned in 2015 along with an adjacent open-cut mine. The coastal town of Anglesea, west of the city on the Great Ocean Road, is a popular beach getaway destination for Melburnians.

* PORT PATERSON, SA

The now-demolished coal-fired Northern Power Station was south of Port Augusta. Both Port Paterson and Port Augusta sit on the northern Spencer Gulf, an area populated for the former power production facilities. It's now home to large solar and wind farms.

* COLLIE, WA

Collie Power Station sits south of Perth near the Harris River, producing 300MW of electricity for southwest of WA. One of two Synergy owned facilities in the region, it is set for closure in 2027 but nearby Muja Power Station will remain open. The region is known for coal but also boasts agricultural and aquaculture tourism industries.

* ROMA, QLD

Gas-operated Roma Power Station produces 80MW of energy for southeast Queensland. Other than natural gas, the locality also has an large agricultural output from forestry, fishing and livestock - producing an approximate annual value of $620 million.

Australian Associated Press