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Albanese to seek state cooperation on data centres but faces fight with Queensland

23 0
24.08.2026

Anthony Albanese will outline to national cabinet on Wednesday proposed national legislation for conditions and guardrails around data centres – but faces a fight with Queensland.

The legislation covers conditions on sources of energy and water and the locations of centres.

It will also set conditions for AI model training in relation to copyright, security, safety and skills development.

Among the minimum obligations the commonwealth will impose are that centres:

must not place upwards pressure on energy prices and must make a positive contribution to Australia’s energy transition

must not place upwards pressure on energy prices and must make a positive contribution to Australia’s energy transition

use innovative, efficient and sustainable solutions to minimise water use, meet infrastructure costs and support transparent reporting on consumption and performance

use innovative, efficient and sustainable solutions to minimise water use, meet infrastructure costs and support transparent reporting on consumption and performance

and minimise community impacts and be appropriate for their size, function and infrastructure requirements, avoiding inappropriate locations near homes, schools........

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