Question Time AU

Take Note Debate

Data Centres

Senate · Wednesday 13 May 2026

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

Senator David Pocock moved a motion to take note of the Minister for Industry and Innovation's answer regarding data centre expectations. He argued that the government's current approach was insufficient and failed to address the significant risks posed by rapid AI adoption. Pocock highlighted concerns about job displacement and the lack of a strategic plan for workforce retraining or revenue generation to support affected workers. The Senate agreed to the motion.

Outcome

The motion was agreed to.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

David Pocock (ACT) (Independent) Ind

Pocock argued that the government's statement of expectations for data centres was inadequate and merely replicated existing rules. Pocock expressed concern that the administration was failing to regulate the rapid growth of artificial intelligence and data infrastructure. Pocock cited warnings from Jobs and Skills Australia that 600,000 Australians could lose their jobs due to these technological changes. Pocock noted the absence of modelling to assess the fiscal and employment impacts of such widespread displacement.