# Australia data centre inquiry finds inadequate checks, stops short of moratorium

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/australia-data-centre-inquiry-finds-inadequate-checks-stops-short-of-moratorium/
- Published: 2026-11-05T00:20:41+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-05T01:50:13+00:00
- Original publisher: CNA (publisher lean: Centre)
- Original article: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/business/australia-data-centre-inquiry-finds-inadequate-checks-stops-short-moratorium-6525851
- Topics: World

## Key points

- NSW found data centre checks miss cumulative impacts.
- The inquiry called for a strategy, not a moratorium.
- Its chair opposed removing proposed approval pauses.

## Summary

A New South Wales inquiry found that data centre approvals do not adequately account for the combined pressure facilities can place on water, electricity and infrastructure. It called for a state-wide strategy and better coordination, but stopped short of recommending a halt to new approvals, despite opposition from its chair.

The report warned that existing guidelines may underestimate future power demand and water constraints, and that facilities clustered together could intensify local pressures. Committee members voted 6-1 to remove proposed state and national moratoriums; chair Abigail Boyd, of the Greens, was the sole member who supported keeping them. The debate comes as data centre projects face growing community resistance and major developments await approval in the state.

---
Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.