Albanese has diagnosed the data centre problem. Now he must show the detail

July 17, 2026 — 7:30pm

You have reached your maximum number of saved items.

Remove items from your saved list to add more.

Artificial intelligence has been playing an increasing role in our lives at the micro level for years, from our televisions and smartphones to our playlists and emails. But Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s speech entitled AI in Australia’s interests at the University of Sydney this week marked a turning point in acknowledging that the technology is reshaping our nation at the macro level.

The speech focused on the issue of data centres, which are now being built all over the country as states and territories engage in feverish competition to attract the billions of dollars in investment they represent.

The NSW government’s Investment Development Authority has received proposals worth more than $70 billion for data centres and technology-related infrastructure. But many of these proposals are meeting strong community opposition.

Blue Mountains........

© The Age