Data centres are booming in Australia - but at what cost?
Summary
Australia is experiencing rapid growth in data centres, driven by demand for artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The country attracts investors due to its clean energy, political stability, and skilled workforce, but local communities worry about noise, energy, and water impacts.Key Facts
- Australia has 162 data centres, with plans for 90 more.
- Over A$155 billion is expected to be invested in data centres across the country.
- One upcoming data centre in western Sydney will be Australia's largest energy user, at one gigawatt.
- Data centres create noise similar to jet planes or high-pitched humming, disturbing nearby residents.
- AI usage in Australia is high, with 13.6 million users monthly, making it the sixth largest global user of AI tech.
- Data centres reduce internet delays (latency), important for services like air traffic control and robotic surgery.
- Experts say building local data centres is essential to develop Australia's own AI companies instead of relying on imports.
- Australia's advantages for data centres include land availability, renewable energy potential, political stability, and a skilled workforce.
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