Capability 1.2.4

Other Critical Data Centre Hardware & Construction Inputs

Definition

Supporting hardware and systems required to build and operate AI-ready data centres, including transformers that are prone to shocks, long lead times, or dominated by a few global suppliers.

Examples

Transformers (Schneider Electric)
advanced cooling systems (Vertiv, Submer)
copper for data centre cabling and cooling systems.

Indicators

Lead times for key components
Import dependency ratio (%)

National AI Plan

PLAN COMMITMENT

Limited commitment

Commits to positioning Australia as a data centre hub, attracting foreign investment, developing national data centre principles, coordinating approvals and energy planning (Action 1, Action 3). Includes short reference to workforce development initiatives such as the Key Apprenticeship Program (including for AI infrastructure) but the plan contains no specifics on hardware and construction inputs to data centres. Limited government commitment in the plan aligns with recommendation to maintain and monitor.

Stocktake

Asia Pacific Data Centre Construction Cost Guide 2025. Cushman & Wakefield. 16 January 2025. https://www.cushmanwakefield.com/en/insights/apac-data-centre-construction-cost-guide
2024 Infrastructure Market Capacity report. Infrastructure Australia. 23 December 2024. https://www.infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/2024-infrastructure-market-capacity-report

Is the Stocktake missing evidence?

Share additional information for potential future Assessments