Australia may face a rush of datacentre construction as AI firms look to dodge upcoming rules, experts say

Regulations will require new sites to avoid pushing up power prices by building renewable energy plants and minimising water use

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Planned datacentres around Australia may avoid strict new rules being proposed by Anthony Albanese if they can secure approvals in the coming months, amid growing calls growing for a moratorium.

The prime minister is aiming to come to an agreement with national cabinet on https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/aug/25/albanese-seeks-to-quell-datacentre-disquiet-as-climate-expert-warns-weve-got-one-shot-to-get-the-rules-right">federal regulations for datacentres at a meeting on Wednesday.