Australia’s long‑term success depends on strong digital technology. The Australian Government has developed a clear set of expectations on data centre and AI infrastructure projects.
The Expectations of data centres and AI infrastructure developers will make sure data centre development only happens when it aligns with Australia’s interest. This includes supporting Australian jobs, strengthening our energy grid, protecting water security and adhering to existing laws on things like privacy and security.
The expectations are a deliverable of the National AI Plan and respond to feedback from:
- industry
- utilities
- states and territories
- unions
- special interest groups.
The expectations help clarify what kind of behaviour the government wants to see from data centre investors, developers and operators in Australia. We expect industry to put Australia’s needs first. This includes in areas like security, sustainability and community benefit.
In return for meeting these expectations, we will prioritise projects in the regulatory approval processes.
There are 5 national expectations of data centres and AI infrastructure developers:
- Prioritise Australia’s national interest
- Support Australia’s energy transition
- Use water sustainably and responsibly
- Invest in Australian skills and jobs
- Strengthen research, innovation and local capability.
The expectations will work alongside existing state and territory laws and local government provisions. We will continue to discuss with them how their approval pathways can reflect the expectations.