Regional Australia risks being locked out of AI boom, councils warn
A federal inquiry heard warnings. Regional Australia may get few AI benefits. But it will bear infrastructure costs.
A parliamentary inquiry on artificial intelligence heard warnings. Small regional councils risk missing out on the technology while facing higher costs and greater risks.
Farmers say poor internet limits them. Expensive adoption costs also block AI use.
Lack of technical skills is another barrier. More than 55 per cent of Australia's 537 local councils serve regional, rural or remote areas.
The Municipal Association of Victoria warned of a risk. A two-speed system could develop.
Well-funded cities would gain AI benefits. Smaller communities would face greater risks and compliance costs.
Meanwhile, more than 200 data centre proposals are moving through planning. The Western Downs Digital Park near Dalby could eventually need 2.16 gigawatts of power.
That's about 30 per cent of Queensland's daily electricity use.
- More than 55% of 537 councils
- Councils in regional areas
- More than 200
- Data centre proposals
- 2.16 gigawatts
- Western Downs power need
- 30% of state use
- Queensland daily electricity
Why it mattersFarmers and regional businesses need AI to stay competitive. Cost and infrastructure gaps could leave them permanently behind.
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