'We have buy-in': PM talks up national unity over AI
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese convened national leaders in Sydney to discuss national agreement on AI data centre regulation, amid concerns from some state and territory governments. While Queensland and the Northern Territory have called for coal and gas-backed energy for data centres, the prime minister emphasized the need for a unified approach to avoid multiple systems operating around the country.
Draft legislation is expected by the end of 2026, with federal parliament set to consider the laws in early 2027. AI is seen as a generational opportunity for Australia, but developers have lost public support, according to AI expert Toby Walsh. The Australian Energy Market Operator reported 165 data centres in operation and 225 under development in the country.
Opposition energy spokesman Dan Tehan criticized the prime minister's renewables-only approach, arguing states and territories should have the power to choose the energy sources that best meet their needs.
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