Greens Demand Datacentre Freeze Until 2027 as Labor Delays AI Laws
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jul 15
Greens Demand Datacentre Freeze Until 2027 as Labor Delays AI Laws
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jul 15
Summary
Australia’s Greens renewed calls for a moratorium on new datacentres, saying no new projects should proceed until legislated standards are in force.
Early next year is when Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says Labor will introduce the new laws, leaving what the Greens call a regulatory gap with no enforceable protections now.
David Shoebridge said the government’s AI response remains too slow, arguing a Canberra coordination office does not prevent immediate harm and warning of consent, privacy and surveillance risks.
Sarah Hanson-Young said pausing new builds is needed before the laws take effect, citing potential strain on the energy grid, water supplies, the environment and climate.