Australia Introduces National Standards for Artificial Intelligence and Data Centers

The Australian Government has announced a national framework for artificial intelligence to ensure development aligns with the country’s interests, according to a government media release. The plan includes establishing Australian Standards for AI and new regulatory requirements for large data centers.

Under the framework, these centers will be legally required to underwrite their own power supply, cover their full connection costs, reduce energy use when necessary to support the grid, and operate with high water efficiency. The government will work with states and territories to plan center locations with community input.

An Office of AI will be created within the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet to implement the AI standards nationally. The proposal will go before the National Cabinet in August, with legislation expected early next year.

The standards also include measures to protect Australian intellectual property, ensuring that creative works by artists, writers, and journalists are not used to train AI systems without their consent. In the coming weeks, the government will detail its consumer safety priorities, following the recent creation of the AI Safety Institute.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the framework aims to secure Australia’s national interests while supporting growth, jobs, and investment.