WWF-Australia has welcomed the release of the Albanese government’s expectations for data centres hoping to set up in Australia, but warned they must be turned into enforceable rules that support the renewable energy transition and protect nature.
The expectations released today say that data centre operators should:
- Prioritise Australia’s national interest
- Support Australia's energy transition
- Use water sustainably and efficiently
- Invest in Australian skills and jobs
- Strengthen research, innovation and local capability
“The government’s data centre principles are a welcome and overdue signal that this sector must support Australia’s national interest,” said Rob Law, WWF-Australia’s Senior Manager, Energy Transition.
“The task now is turning these expectations into enforceable federal and state rules that actually shape outcomes and align with Australia’s energy, climate and water goals.
“Energy and water are tightly linked for data centres. If growth is poorly managed, these facilities will increase emissions and threaten water security.
“Data centres must be built in the right places with the right standards, and with careful consideration for the interests of First Nations and local communities. Without that discipline, the growth of data centres risks putting Australia’s climate and energy goals at risk.
“Strong collaboration with industry and governments can ensure best practice becomes the norm not the exception."
WWF-Australia is part of an alliance of industry groups, unions, community groups and environmental organisations that has called for data centre operators to invest in new renewable energy, use water responsibly and improve data transparency.
Contact details:
Paul Fahy, 0455 528 161, [email protected]
