New reactor a missed opportunity

Government's claims that a new nuclear reactor at Lucas Heights will save life are questioned. The author also briefly considers why it will be preferable to use alternative radioisotope sources if at all possible. Rapid advancements in alternative production technologies (especially accelerators and spallation sources), good prospects for reliance on imported radioisotopes and strong competition between the various imaging modalities are advocated as rare opportunities for Australia to move away from reactor technology. Radioactive waste, possibility of using plutonium for nuclear weapons and safety issues are flagged as good reasons to be looking at alternatives to reactors for radioisotope production