Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has introduced a proposed national framework requiring large data centers to finance new power generation, minimize water use, and be placed in suitable locations. The policy aims to prevent the facilities’ enormous electricity demand from inflating household energy bills. Albanese stated that the country has ample space for these operations, though he acknowledged competing land uses like housing. The announcement comes as Australia’s data center capacity—currently concentrated in Sydney and Melbourne—is expected to more than double within four years, straining water and energy resources. Critics, including Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young, argue the rules lack force until legislation is passed, while regional lawmakers warn the original renewable-energy bargain with rural communities may be broken. The framework also establishes an Office of AI and directs federal-state coordination on siting.