A recent survey reveals a significant gender divide in Australian attitudes towards nuclear energy, with women showing stronger opposition than men.
The study, conducted by research company DemosAu on behalf of the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF), surveyed 6,000 people and uncovered that 26% of women believe nuclear energy would benefit Australia, compared to 51% of men.
This 25-percentage-point gender gap is the largest the research firm has observed on any issue.
The polling showed that the divide remains consistent across all age groups, with young men and women holding equally opposing views.
While men express more support for nuclear energy in general, this enthusiasm diminishes when the issue shifts to the proximity of nuclear plants.
When asked if they would accept a nuclear plant near their city, only 38% of men agreed, while 63% of women rejected the idea.
Women show greater concern about nuclear safety, with 57% opposing the risks of nuclear waste transport.George Hasanakos, head of research at DemosAu, noted that this stark contrast highlights how gender influences environmental views, especially regarding nuclear energy.
Kelly O’Shanassy, ACF’s CEO, explained that while men show more initial support, their approval drops when practical concerns—such as living near a plant or the safety of nuclear waste—are raised.
Women, on the other hand, are much more likely to view these risks as unacceptable.
The survey also uncovered concerns over nuclear waste transport, with 57% of women and 43% of men opposed to its risks.
This division reflects broader safety concerns among women, which could present both a challenge and an opportunity for pro-nuclear advocates as Australia approaches a federal election.
Despite this split, both men and women agree on one issue: renewable energy is seen as the more affordable option.
47% of men and women alike believe renewables will offer cheaper energy, further intensifying the debate over Australia’s energy future.