Melbourne has over 50 data centres with facilities from various providers including Equinix, NEXTDC, and AirTrunk. Lot of them are under construction such as AWS & Microsoft. Melbourne is losing its living standards day by day by adding Data Centres for getting businesses from global tech companies & compromising on the liveability index. This companies profit as Australia has no tax levy for carbon footprint. The carbon emission goals will be difficult to meet as the data centres are not sustainable.

We, the undersigned, wish to express our strong opposition to the construction and operation of new data centres in Melbourne due to the following concerns:

 
1. Environmental Impact:

Data centres consume a significant amount of electricity, often relying on non-renewable energy sources. Melbourne is currently undergoing a climate crisis, and the construction of large-scale data centres would only contribute to increased carbon emissions, further exacerbating global warming. Additionally, these centres require vast amounts of water for cooling, putting further strain on local water supplies in times of drought.

 https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-07-15/greater-western-water-data-centre-proposals-foi/105529020

2. Urban Sprawl and Infrastructure Strain:

The construction of large data centres in Melbourne would likely encourage urban sprawl and place undue pressure on existing infrastructure. Roads, public transport, and healthcare services are already under strain, and the addition of such facilities could lead to overcrowding and an overburdened system that is ill-equipped to handle the demands of both businesses and residents. This means we wont reach net zero targets even by 2050.

 
3. Noise and Air Pollution:

Data centers operate 24/7, generating significant noise from cooling systems, backup generators, and air conditioning units. The resulting noise pollution can be disruptive to local residents, especially those in residential areas. Moreover, the increased use of backup diesel generators contributes to air pollution, creating an unhealthy environment for both humans and wildlife.

 
4. Land Use and Local Communities:

Data centers are typically built in large, industrial zones that are often located near residential communities. The operation of such centers may not align with the best interests of local residents, who could face diminished quality of life, including issues related to noise, traffic, and potential health risks from electromagnetic radiation.

 
5. Loss of Public Space and Green Areas:

Melbourne has a limited amount of green and open space, and the development of large industrial structures like data centers would reduce these vital areas for both public enjoyment and ecological balance. The loss of green spaces also negatively impacts biodiversity, with many urban ecosystems already under threat.

 
6. Job Creation vs. Long-Term Impact:

While data centres may create short-term jobs during construction, these positions are typically low-wage, manual labour jobs with few long-term career benefits. There should be mandate to employ local people & train them for employment for existing data centres. In contrast, the broader community stands to lose out on the potential for development projects that would create more sustainable, long-term employment opportunities, such as those in education, healthcare, or sustainable technologies.

 
7. Lack of Public Consultation and Transparency:

There has been insufficient consultation with the local community regarding the siting and potential impacts of data centres. Many residents are unaware of the scale of these developments, the risks they entail, and the broader environmental consequences. Full transparency and public consultation should be a mandatory part of any development plan.

 
We Demand:

1. A halt to the construction of new data centres in Melbourne until a full environmental and social impact assessment is conducted.
   Transparent public consultation processes, allowing residents and stakeholders to voice their concerns.
2. The implementation of sustainable energy solutions, such as solar or wind or pumped Hydro for the operation of existing and new data centers.
3.  A commitment to environmentally responsible design, including water conservation measures and noise reduction strategies.
   The protection of public green spaces and preservation of biodiversity in the face of development.
4.  Councils to proactively engage with locals for approval of any new or data centre. State government & councils to justify that there will be enough water & electricity to meet demands of power hungry data centres.