Jul 7, 2026 – 7.02pmData centre builders have baulked at a potential government plan to force them to pay compensation to communities, arguing they already donate money to local organisations, create jobs and invest in renewable energy.The federal government is considering more stringent rules for data centre developments, including a potential requirement that operators pay a “financial benefit” such as fees into a fund that would distribute money to local communities.Subscribe to gift this articleGift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe.Subscribe nowAlready a subscriber? Fetching latest articles