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As digital infrastructure becomes increasingly important to Australia's economy, Session Two explored the opportunities and challenges data centres present for growth area communities. The discussion moved beyond the facilities themselves and focused on their broader role in shaping future economic development, infrastructure investment and land use planning.
A recurring theme throughout the session was that data centres are rapidly becoming essential infrastructure for the digital economy. Discussions highlighted their importance in supporting cloud computing, artificial intelligence and the growing demand for digital services, while also acknowledging the significant demands they place on land, energy and water resources.
Belinda Dennett provided a national industry perspective, outlining the scale of investment occurring across the sector and the role data centres will play in supporting Australia's future competitiveness. She noted that growth is being driven by genuine increases in digital activity rather than speculative demand and argued that Australia must be prepared to support the infrastructure needed to participate in an increasingly technology-driven economy.
The local government panel brought practical experience from councils already navigating the opportunities and challenges of data centre development.
Eric Braslis outlined Wyndham's experience as an emerging data centre hub, highlighting the economic benefits these facilities can generate alongside concerns relating to electricity demand, land consumption and long-term infrastructure planning.
Leon van der Linde shared the City of Swan's experience managing complex planning applications and significant community interest. His presentation highlighted the need to balance investment attraction with environmental, cultural heritage and amenity considerations, while advocating for clearer planning frameworks and better coordination between levels of government.
Kylie Powell provided Penrith's perspective, arguing that future approvals must be grounded in transparent evidence, meaningful community engagement and a better understanding of cumulative impacts on water and energy networks. She reinforced the importance of ensuring councils remain central to planning and decision-making processes.
By the conclusion of the session, there was broad agreement that data centres represent a significant opportunity for growth areas. Realising that opportunity, however, will require thoughtful planning, strong partnerships and a clear focus on ensuring local communities share in the benefits of digital infrastructure investment.
