Data centres: water, power and neighbours

Is a data centre being built or proposed near where you live or work? What has the local experience been, such as traffic, noise, construction or jobs?

Sydney Water says recycled water could supply data centres; a water researcher says that demand was not in the city's water strategy. Should recycled water go to data centres, to drought supply, or be shared under set rules?

Victoria plans to require new data centres to bring their own renewable power and storage. Would that protect household power prices and supply, or risk pushing investment to other states?

The industry body says a 150-metre buffer from homes treats data centres more strictly than warehouses; the Victorian Government says homes need protecting. Where should the line be drawn?

Residents near one Melbourne facility are seeking buybacks and payments. When a large facility is approved next to existing homes, what, if anything, should neighbours be entitled to?

The Greens have called for a pause on new data centres until regulation is settled; Victoria has announced conditions instead, and Sydney Water says data centres would pay their way. Which approach gives communities more certainty?

Unions and academics propose that big tech contribute computing power and funding for Australian-owned AI. Is that a fair condition for building here, or a deterrent to investment?

Sydney Water says data centres would pay their way without affecting other customers; a water researcher says the demand was not in the 2022 strategy. What would you want to know about drought planning before recycled water is allocated?

Victoria's rules will not apply retroactively to applications already being assessed. Is that fair to developers who applied under the old rules, or does it leave communities exposed?

For people working in tech or energy: how much new electricity demand are data centres adding where you are, and which official forecasts are worth reading? Share the source.

What local benefits, such as TAFE partnerships, jobs or parks, would make a data centre a good neighbour, and how should they be enforced?

Several rules are still proposals or under consultation. What would you want confirmed about how water, power and buffer rules will be applied and checked?