Nuclear Security Science Capability
Aalto created an initial business case and economic/financial analysis for options to improve Australia's Nuclear Security Science capability. The project included working closely with ANSTO departments to identify the range of benefits which would arise from specific investment. Aalto also collaborated with external agencies including AFP, Defence, ARPANSA, ASNO to understand their service needs and to include their requirements in the funding proposal.
ANSTO – Initial Business Case
Client: Jacobs (Australia) Pty. Ltd. (as Principal Consultant to ANSTO)
Client Contact: Confidential
Services Primary: Business Case Development
Services Secondary: Economic / Financial Analysis
Sector: Science & Research
Background
Aalto prepared an Initial Business Case and economic/financial appraisal for a significant enhancement of Australia’s Nuclear Security Science (NSS) capability. The project involved extensive engagement with ANSTO stakeholders across numerous functional areas and divisions, to capture the key functional requirements and benefits that would arise from this investment. Aalto also met with numerous external stakeholders in the proposed capability, including AFP, Defence, ARPANSA, ASNO and others to understand how they currently engaged with the ANSTO NSS functional team and how to capture their needs in the funding request.
Our Role
Throughout the project, Aalto worked closely with the Principal Consultant (Jacobs) to confirm the basis for developing and comparing project options, against an agreed base case. In addition to a capital element, a significant part of the business case related to staffing requirements, and how these may be realised over time in the face of challenges including ASL caps. Aalto also evaluated several operating models for the NSS capability and determined which one would be optimal from an efficiency, transparency, oversight and productivity perspective.
Outcomes and Insights
Drafts of the IBC were shared with ANSTO as they were prepared, helping to ensure adherence to timetable. Further engagement with Department of Finance and DISER (Budget Branch) helped to garner support for the proposal and steer it toward a successful conclusion.
The recommendations in the Initial Business Case were endorsed by government, with funding approval granted in the 2022/23 MYEFO budget to proceed with further design and cost development within the context of a Detailed Business Case.