In 1992, the Commonwealth Government supported by States and Territories commenced an Australia-wide search for a site for a suitable site for a national radioactive waste repository for Australia's small inventory of low level and short-lived intermediate level waste. In 1998, the central-north region of South Australia was chosen as the preferred area in which to undertake detailed site investigations as it had the largest area of potential suitability compared to relevant technical and social criteria. Public consultation has been conducted both nationally and in the region.

Site investigations are currently in their final phase, and it is expected that a preferred site will be identified before the end of 2000. Environmental assessment and licensing processes will then commence, and the repository may be constructed in 2002.