Council body demands data centre moratorium as planning approvals rise
Pressure is mounting on Victoria's major parties to respond to community concern over data centres ahead of next month's state election.
The Municipal Association of Victoria has called for a moratorium on data centre approvals until a comprehensive planning and environmental framework is established. This resolution, passed at its state council meeting, aims to address growing community opposition ahead of the upcoming election. The Municipal Association of Victoria, representing all 79 councils in Victoria, also passed a motion for better regulation of data centres' social, economic, and environmental impacts.
Councils from Melbourne, Geelong, Maribyrnong, and Hume among others, have joined this effort, citing concerns over land, energy, and water use. The City of Greater Geelong has expressed worry that large-scale data centres may hinder residential and industrial development. Melbourne's NextDC has recently acquired land earmarked for housing, aggravating the issue.
The MAV president, Jennifer Anderson, emphasized that the resolution strengthens local government's advocacy for data centre regulations at the state and federal levels. The government has introduced new regulations for data centres, including bans near homes and schools, and mandating the use of renewable energy and non-drinking water.
However, the opposition has criticized the development facilitation program for taking away local council's powers. The Greens have also called for a moratorium on new AI data centres and compensation for affected communities.
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