Victoria Lays Down the Law for Data Centres
The plan requires developers to use renewable energy, avoid drinking water and fund local upgrades as Victoria responds to community backlash.
- On Tuesday, Premier Ben Carroll unveiled the Sustainable Data Centre Action Plan, introducing a 150-metre buffer between new data centres and homes while mandating renewable energy and non-drinking water usage.
- Widespread community opposition in Melbourne's inner west prompted the policy, following fierce protests against diesel generator pollution, constant noise, and lack of consultation regarding developments near homes.
- Developers must now source their own renewable energy, fund local infrastructure upgrades, and contribute to investment funds for TAFEs and parks to ensure communities share economic benefits.
- CDC Data Centres chief executive Greg Boorer welcomed the regulatory clarity, while Data Centres Australia chief executive Belinda Dennett criticized the 150-metre buffer as potentially rendering suitable sites unviable.
- These rules are not retrospective, meaning at least three proposed projects will breach the new buffer, while the Victorian Government plans to develop detailed siting guidance throughout 2027.
11 Articles
11 Articles
‘Too little, too late’: Data centre buffer carve-out leaves some residents vulnerable
At least three proposed data centre projects will breach a new 150-metre buffer, in communities which have fiercely protested against AI infrastructure.
Victoria’s New Datacentre Rules Ban Sites Near Schools but Exempt Projects Already in the Pipeline
Victoria has unveiled a sweeping new policy aimed at reining in the environmental and social impact of datacentres, banning new facilities from residential areas and near schools while requiring operators to source their own renewable energy and give back to local communities. The state’s sustainable datacentre action plan, released this week, positions Victoria as having […] The post Victoria’s New Datacentre Rules Ban Sites Near Schools but Ex…
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