Australian local governments seek more control over data centre planning

Local government bodies in Australia are calling for increased oversight and a greater role in the planning of data centre developments due to concerns over community and environmental impacts.

In Victoria, the City of Whittlesea unanimously resolved to request that the state government investigate data centre developments. This follows rising interest in the sector, specifically regarding two planned facilities in South Morang by Dover DC. Councillors expressed concerns regarding a lack of transparency, inadequate community consultation, and the potential strain on local infrastructure, water, and energy resources.

In South Australia, the Local Government Association (LGA) has submitted a response to a Federal Parliamentary Inquiry into Artificial Intelligence and Data Centres. The LGA emphasized that while the sector offers economic opportunities, it poses significant challenges including increased electricity demand, water security issues, greenhouse gas emissions, and land use conflicts. The submission highlights the need for robust regulatory frameworks to manage large-scale projects, such as a proposed 800MW facility at Bundey.