Building AI Infrastructure submission
Submission summary by Premier Strategy The Australian Government has sought feedback on how future AI infrastructure should be planned, located and delivered through its consultation ‘Getting it right: Building AI Infrastructure that works for Australia.’
Premier Strategy recently provided a submission to the Australian Government's consultation on AI infrastructure, drawing on our experience delivering infrastructure and digital infrastructure projects across regional, rural and metropolitan communities. The submission explores how engagement, transparency, strategic planning and community benefit can support better outcomes for both communities and project proponents.
We’ve captured 7 key observations from our submission
Planning approval does not guarantee community support
Planning approval may provide the authority to proceed, but it does not automatically create trust or confidence. Community concerns are often driven by how decisions are made, who benefits, whether local voice have been heard and how impacts will be managed over time.
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Meaningful engagement is measured by influence, not just activity
Meaningful engagement is not measured by the number of information sessions, newsletters or stakeholders contacted. It is measured by whether people have a genuine opportunity to influence decisions and whether proponents can demonstrate how feedback has informed project design.
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Engage early and define the negotiables
Engagement is most effective when it occurs before key decisions have been finalised. Communities should understand what is still open to influence, what decisions have already been made, and how their input can contribute to better project outcomes.
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Communities experience projects collectively, but approvals are assessed individually
Assessment and engagement processes typically focus on individual projects. Communities experience the combined effects of growth on transport, utilities, land use, infrastructure and amenity. A more strategic approach is needed where multiple projects are concentrated in the same area.
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Councils should be viewed as strategic partners, not just stakeholders
Local government brings detailed knowledge of community priorities. Infrastructure constraints and long-term planning objectives. Their involvement can help identify cumulative impacts and improve alignment between projects and local needs.
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The best community benefits are developed with communities, not for them
Benefit sharing is most effective when it reflects locally identified priorities rather than standardised offerings developed by governments or proponents. Communities are more likely to value benefits that align with local needs, create lasting outcomes and have been built through meaningful engagement.
Strategic data precincts can reduce conflict before it occurs
Identifying suitable locations for future data centre development before development pressure emerges can provide greater certainty for investors while reducing land use conflict. Strategic planning helps communities understand how growth will occur and why particular locations have been identified.
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