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The Advertiser
07-08-2025
- Business
- The Advertiser
People's Blockade: critics say Rising Tide's record raises red flags too serious to ignore
WHILE the vast majority backed climate activist group Rising Tide's application to host its protestival in Newcastle later this year, warnings from industry, transport and business leaders have escalated. With Newcastle councillors set to decide on the application next week, many objectors pointed to last year's protest, which ended in mass arrests, drew significant police resources and disrupted movement at the port. A council report released on Monday revealed 86 per cent of more than 1850 submissions supported Rising Tide's application, but critics said the group's track record raises red flags too serious to ignore. Meanwhile Rising Tide has asked Newcastle council to move its event application from Richardson Park back to Foreshore Park. The Port of Newcastle was among the strongest opponents to the application, warning City of Newcastle that approving its event licence would be "akin to permitting a demonstration about airline emissions to take place on an active runway". "No responsible authority would allow such an event due to the clear risks to safety, operations and public confidence," the Port's submission said. "Council must consider the high risk of non-compliance when assessing this application, the risk isn't hypothetical, it's based on demonstrated past conduct. "No group with such a track record should be endorsed or facilitated to do the same again." Last year's blockade ended in 170 arrests as activists defied police orders on the last day and paddled into the shipping channel. The Port's submission argued that the protest narrative focuses narrowly on coal, and ignores its critical role in delivering economic benefits to the region, sustainability and transition outcomes. The Port said it enabled the first shipments of wind turbine components to support the development of Renewable Energy Zones and said its Clean Energy Precinct is on track for production by 2030. "To continue targeting the Port, while ignoring the breadth of its contribution and transformation, is to advance a narrative that is outdated, misleading, and increasingly at odds with the progress being made across our region," it said. "This is a region that has proudly powered the nation for generations, and now, with the support of industry, government, and the community, is leading the way in charting a responsible course toward net zero." The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) raised concerns about operational shutdowns and safety risks. ARTC said it has had to take a range of measures, including stopping passenger train services during night-time hours, due to the risks to staff and passengers as a result of Rising Tide's and other groups' protest activities. "Unauthorised access to a live rail corridor is not only an offence, it jeopardises the health, safety and wellbeing of our rail workers and train drivers, first responders, as well as protestors' own safety," ARTC's submission said. "Rising Tide's organisers and supporters have previously demonstrated a reckless disregard for safety and compliance with the law and licence conditions." Business Hunter threw its support behind the Port and commercial operators who work in and around it. "These operators have a right to undertake their legal business activities without disruption," its submission said. In 2024, the cruise ship Silver Nova and its almost 1400 passengers and crew cancelled a scheduled visit to Newcastle to avoid the Rising Tide protest. Business Hunter said cruise ship visits are a significant contributor to the visitor economy, generating $20 million in 2023/24, and the cancelled Silver Nova visit came at a "considerable cost" to day trip organisers, hospitality and tourism businesses. "The fallout from this highly publicised cancellation has also served to erode industry confidence in Newcastle as a cruise destination at a time when the city is looking to grow its share of that market," the submission said. Whitehaven Coal took aim at the council itself, arguing it is "offensive" City of Newcastle would encourage and facilitate protesting against employees and businesses in the electorate. Despite opposition from coal, port and rail stakeholders, support for the protestival poured in from faith groups, doctors and grassroots organisations. Hunter Jobs Alliance urged the council to focus solely on the proposed use of public land, not on whether or not the message of the event aligns with political or ideological viewpoints. "The content or target of the protest itself, particularly activities taking place on Newcastle Harbour, falls outside council's jurisdiction, and should not form the basis for Council's decision," its submission said. "We note that Rising Tide's event in 2024 was a vibrant, peaceful, and family-friendly celebration of people power, featuring live music, community meals, children's activities, learning zones, care tents and chai stalls. "It was well-organised, inclusive, and respectful of both the land and the broader community." Supporters raised democratic freedoms, environmental concerns and community connections among their reasons for backing the event. Many expressed a strong desire to see action on climate change and see the event as an opportunity to champion global environmental justice. The Tighes Hill Community Group said the 2025 event is an opportunity to put Newcastle on the world stage concerning climate activism. "... in a world where the right to protest is increasingly denied, it provides a model for civil society to exercise peaceful, safe protest, the right of any functioning democracy," the group said. Doctors for the Environment Australia said Newcastle and the Hunter have not been spared by climate emergencies, which are adversely affecting health. "We ask the council to consider their ethical responsibility to the health and well-being of the community and their responsibility to protect their future safety," its submission said. "It would be negligent of the Newcastle council not to take this seriously." Newcastle East Residents Group (NERG), who were arguably closest to the action, said organisers kept residents fully informed in the lead up to the 2024 event. In its submission, NERG said parklands were left in pristine condition and participants showed care and concern for the environment. "Compared to the Supercars event and its devastating effects on the community, local businesses and the parklands, the Rising Tide event provides great benefit to Newcastle," NERG said. Councillors will vote on the event licence at an extraordinary meeting on August 12. WHILE the vast majority backed climate activist group Rising Tide's application to host its protestival in Newcastle later this year, warnings from industry, transport and business leaders have escalated. With Newcastle councillors set to decide on the application next week, many objectors pointed to last year's protest, which ended in mass arrests, drew significant police resources and disrupted movement at the port. A council report released on Monday revealed 86 per cent of more than 1850 submissions supported Rising Tide's application, but critics said the group's track record raises red flags too serious to ignore. Meanwhile Rising Tide has asked Newcastle council to move its event application from Richardson Park back to Foreshore Park. The Port of Newcastle was among the strongest opponents to the application, warning City of Newcastle that approving its event licence would be "akin to permitting a demonstration about airline emissions to take place on an active runway". "No responsible authority would allow such an event due to the clear risks to safety, operations and public confidence," the Port's submission said. "Council must consider the high risk of non-compliance when assessing this application, the risk isn't hypothetical, it's based on demonstrated past conduct. "No group with such a track record should be endorsed or facilitated to do the same again." Last year's blockade ended in 170 arrests as activists defied police orders on the last day and paddled into the shipping channel. The Port's submission argued that the protest narrative focuses narrowly on coal, and ignores its critical role in delivering economic benefits to the region, sustainability and transition outcomes. The Port said it enabled the first shipments of wind turbine components to support the development of Renewable Energy Zones and said its Clean Energy Precinct is on track for production by 2030. "To continue targeting the Port, while ignoring the breadth of its contribution and transformation, is to advance a narrative that is outdated, misleading, and increasingly at odds with the progress being made across our region," it said. "This is a region that has proudly powered the nation for generations, and now, with the support of industry, government, and the community, is leading the way in charting a responsible course toward net zero." The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) raised concerns about operational shutdowns and safety risks. ARTC said it has had to take a range of measures, including stopping passenger train services during night-time hours, due to the risks to staff and passengers as a result of Rising Tide's and other groups' protest activities. "Unauthorised access to a live rail corridor is not only an offence, it jeopardises the health, safety and wellbeing of our rail workers and train drivers, first responders, as well as protestors' own safety," ARTC's submission said. "Rising Tide's organisers and supporters have previously demonstrated a reckless disregard for safety and compliance with the law and licence conditions." Business Hunter threw its support behind the Port and commercial operators who work in and around it. "These operators have a right to undertake their legal business activities without disruption," its submission said. In 2024, the cruise ship Silver Nova and its almost 1400 passengers and crew cancelled a scheduled visit to Newcastle to avoid the Rising Tide protest. Business Hunter said cruise ship visits are a significant contributor to the visitor economy, generating $20 million in 2023/24, and the cancelled Silver Nova visit came at a "considerable cost" to day trip organisers, hospitality and tourism businesses. "The fallout from this highly publicised cancellation has also served to erode industry confidence in Newcastle as a cruise destination at a time when the city is looking to grow its share of that market," the submission said. Whitehaven Coal took aim at the council itself, arguing it is "offensive" City of Newcastle would encourage and facilitate protesting against employees and businesses in the electorate. Despite opposition from coal, port and rail stakeholders, support for the protestival poured in from faith groups, doctors and grassroots organisations. Hunter Jobs Alliance urged the council to focus solely on the proposed use of public land, not on whether or not the message of the event aligns with political or ideological viewpoints. "The content or target of the protest itself, particularly activities taking place on Newcastle Harbour, falls outside council's jurisdiction, and should not form the basis for Council's decision," its submission said. "We note that Rising Tide's event in 2024 was a vibrant, peaceful, and family-friendly celebration of people power, featuring live music, community meals, children's activities, learning zones, care tents and chai stalls. "It was well-organised, inclusive, and respectful of both the land and the broader community." Supporters raised democratic freedoms, environmental concerns and community connections among their reasons for backing the event. Many expressed a strong desire to see action on climate change and see the event as an opportunity to champion global environmental justice. The Tighes Hill Community Group said the 2025 event is an opportunity to put Newcastle on the world stage concerning climate activism. "... in a world where the right to protest is increasingly denied, it provides a model for civil society to exercise peaceful, safe protest, the right of any functioning democracy," the group said. Doctors for the Environment Australia said Newcastle and the Hunter have not been spared by climate emergencies, which are adversely affecting health. "We ask the council to consider their ethical responsibility to the health and well-being of the community and their responsibility to protect their future safety," its submission said. "It would be negligent of the Newcastle council not to take this seriously." Newcastle East Residents Group (NERG), who were arguably closest to the action, said organisers kept residents fully informed in the lead up to the 2024 event. In its submission, NERG said parklands were left in pristine condition and participants showed care and concern for the environment. "Compared to the Supercars event and its devastating effects on the community, local businesses and the parklands, the Rising Tide event provides great benefit to Newcastle," NERG said. Councillors will vote on the event licence at an extraordinary meeting on August 12. WHILE the vast majority backed climate activist group Rising Tide's application to host its protestival in Newcastle later this year, warnings from industry, transport and business leaders have escalated. With Newcastle councillors set to decide on the application next week, many objectors pointed to last year's protest, which ended in mass arrests, drew significant police resources and disrupted movement at the port. A council report released on Monday revealed 86 per cent of more than 1850 submissions supported Rising Tide's application, but critics said the group's track record raises red flags too serious to ignore. Meanwhile Rising Tide has asked Newcastle council to move its event application from Richardson Park back to Foreshore Park. The Port of Newcastle was among the strongest opponents to the application, warning City of Newcastle that approving its event licence would be "akin to permitting a demonstration about airline emissions to take place on an active runway". "No responsible authority would allow such an event due to the clear risks to safety, operations and public confidence," the Port's submission said. "Council must consider the high risk of non-compliance when assessing this application, the risk isn't hypothetical, it's based on demonstrated past conduct. "No group with such a track record should be endorsed or facilitated to do the same again." Last year's blockade ended in 170 arrests as activists defied police orders on the last day and paddled into the shipping channel. The Port's submission argued that the protest narrative focuses narrowly on coal, and ignores its critical role in delivering economic benefits to the region, sustainability and transition outcomes. The Port said it enabled the first shipments of wind turbine components to support the development of Renewable Energy Zones and said its Clean Energy Precinct is on track for production by 2030. "To continue targeting the Port, while ignoring the breadth of its contribution and transformation, is to advance a narrative that is outdated, misleading, and increasingly at odds with the progress being made across our region," it said. "This is a region that has proudly powered the nation for generations, and now, with the support of industry, government, and the community, is leading the way in charting a responsible course toward net zero." The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) raised concerns about operational shutdowns and safety risks. ARTC said it has had to take a range of measures, including stopping passenger train services during night-time hours, due to the risks to staff and passengers as a result of Rising Tide's and other groups' protest activities. "Unauthorised access to a live rail corridor is not only an offence, it jeopardises the health, safety and wellbeing of our rail workers and train drivers, first responders, as well as protestors' own safety," ARTC's submission said. "Rising Tide's organisers and supporters have previously demonstrated a reckless disregard for safety and compliance with the law and licence conditions." Business Hunter threw its support behind the Port and commercial operators who work in and around it. "These operators have a right to undertake their legal business activities without disruption," its submission said. In 2024, the cruise ship Silver Nova and its almost 1400 passengers and crew cancelled a scheduled visit to Newcastle to avoid the Rising Tide protest. Business Hunter said cruise ship visits are a significant contributor to the visitor economy, generating $20 million in 2023/24, and the cancelled Silver Nova visit came at a "considerable cost" to day trip organisers, hospitality and tourism businesses. "The fallout from this highly publicised cancellation has also served to erode industry confidence in Newcastle as a cruise destination at a time when the city is looking to grow its share of that market," the submission said. Whitehaven Coal took aim at the council itself, arguing it is "offensive" City of Newcastle would encourage and facilitate protesting against employees and businesses in the electorate. Despite opposition from coal, port and rail stakeholders, support for the protestival poured in from faith groups, doctors and grassroots organisations. Hunter Jobs Alliance urged the council to focus solely on the proposed use of public land, not on whether or not the message of the event aligns with political or ideological viewpoints. "The content or target of the protest itself, particularly activities taking place on Newcastle Harbour, falls outside council's jurisdiction, and should not form the basis for Council's decision," its submission said. "We note that Rising Tide's event in 2024 was a vibrant, peaceful, and family-friendly celebration of people power, featuring live music, community meals, children's activities, learning zones, care tents and chai stalls. "It was well-organised, inclusive, and respectful of both the land and the broader community." Supporters raised democratic freedoms, environmental concerns and community connections among their reasons for backing the event. Many expressed a strong desire to see action on climate change and see the event as an opportunity to champion global environmental justice. The Tighes Hill Community Group said the 2025 event is an opportunity to put Newcastle on the world stage concerning climate activism. "... in a world where the right to protest is increasingly denied, it provides a model for civil society to exercise peaceful, safe protest, the right of any functioning democracy," the group said. Doctors for the Environment Australia said Newcastle and the Hunter have not been spared by climate emergencies, which are adversely affecting health. "We ask the council to consider their ethical responsibility to the health and well-being of the community and their responsibility to protect their future safety," its submission said. "It would be negligent of the Newcastle council not to take this seriously." Newcastle East Residents Group (NERG), who were arguably closest to the action, said organisers kept residents fully informed in the lead up to the 2024 event. In its submission, NERG said parklands were left in pristine condition and participants showed care and concern for the environment. "Compared to the Supercars event and its devastating effects on the community, local businesses and the parklands, the Rising Tide event provides great benefit to Newcastle," NERG said. Councillors will vote on the event licence at an extraordinary meeting on August 12. WHILE the vast majority backed climate activist group Rising Tide's application to host its protestival in Newcastle later this year, warnings from industry, transport and business leaders have escalated. With Newcastle councillors set to decide on the application next week, many objectors pointed to last year's protest, which ended in mass arrests, drew significant police resources and disrupted movement at the port. A council report released on Monday revealed 86 per cent of more than 1850 submissions supported Rising Tide's application, but critics said the group's track record raises red flags too serious to ignore. Meanwhile Rising Tide has asked Newcastle council to move its event application from Richardson Park back to Foreshore Park. The Port of Newcastle was among the strongest opponents to the application, warning City of Newcastle that approving its event licence would be "akin to permitting a demonstration about airline emissions to take place on an active runway". "No responsible authority would allow such an event due to the clear risks to safety, operations and public confidence," the Port's submission said. "Council must consider the high risk of non-compliance when assessing this application, the risk isn't hypothetical, it's based on demonstrated past conduct. "No group with such a track record should be endorsed or facilitated to do the same again." Last year's blockade ended in 170 arrests as activists defied police orders on the last day and paddled into the shipping channel. The Port's submission argued that the protest narrative focuses narrowly on coal, and ignores its critical role in delivering economic benefits to the region, sustainability and transition outcomes. The Port said it enabled the first shipments of wind turbine components to support the development of Renewable Energy Zones and said its Clean Energy Precinct is on track for production by 2030. "To continue targeting the Port, while ignoring the breadth of its contribution and transformation, is to advance a narrative that is outdated, misleading, and increasingly at odds with the progress being made across our region," it said. "This is a region that has proudly powered the nation for generations, and now, with the support of industry, government, and the community, is leading the way in charting a responsible course toward net zero." The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) raised concerns about operational shutdowns and safety risks. ARTC said it has had to take a range of measures, including stopping passenger train services during night-time hours, due to the risks to staff and passengers as a result of Rising Tide's and other groups' protest activities. "Unauthorised access to a live rail corridor is not only an offence, it jeopardises the health, safety and wellbeing of our rail workers and train drivers, first responders, as well as protestors' own safety," ARTC's submission said. "Rising Tide's organisers and supporters have previously demonstrated a reckless disregard for safety and compliance with the law and licence conditions." Business Hunter threw its support behind the Port and commercial operators who work in and around it. "These operators have a right to undertake their legal business activities without disruption," its submission said. In 2024, the cruise ship Silver Nova and its almost 1400 passengers and crew cancelled a scheduled visit to Newcastle to avoid the Rising Tide protest. Business Hunter said cruise ship visits are a significant contributor to the visitor economy, generating $20 million in 2023/24, and the cancelled Silver Nova visit came at a "considerable cost" to day trip organisers, hospitality and tourism businesses. "The fallout from this highly publicised cancellation has also served to erode industry confidence in Newcastle as a cruise destination at a time when the city is looking to grow its share of that market," the submission said. Whitehaven Coal took aim at the council itself, arguing it is "offensive" City of Newcastle would encourage and facilitate protesting against employees and businesses in the electorate. Despite opposition from coal, port and rail stakeholders, support for the protestival poured in from faith groups, doctors and grassroots organisations. Hunter Jobs Alliance urged the council to focus solely on the proposed use of public land, not on whether or not the message of the event aligns with political or ideological viewpoints. "The content or target of the protest itself, particularly activities taking place on Newcastle Harbour, falls outside council's jurisdiction, and should not form the basis for Council's decision," its submission said. "We note that Rising Tide's event in 2024 was a vibrant, peaceful, and family-friendly celebration of people power, featuring live music, community meals, children's activities, learning zones, care tents and chai stalls. "It was well-organised, inclusive, and respectful of both the land and the broader community." Supporters raised democratic freedoms, environmental concerns and community connections among their reasons for backing the event. Many expressed a strong desire to see action on climate change and see the event as an opportunity to champion global environmental justice. The Tighes Hill Community Group said the 2025 event is an opportunity to put Newcastle on the world stage concerning climate activism. "... in a world where the right to protest is increasingly denied, it provides a model for civil society to exercise peaceful, safe protest, the right of any functioning democracy," the group said. Doctors for the Environment Australia said Newcastle and the Hunter have not been spared by climate emergencies, which are adversely affecting health. "We ask the council to consider their ethical responsibility to the health and well-being of the community and their responsibility to protect their future safety," its submission said. "It would be negligent of the Newcastle council not to take this seriously." Newcastle East Residents Group (NERG), who were arguably closest to the action, said organisers kept residents fully informed in the lead up to the 2024 event. In its submission, NERG said parklands were left in pristine condition and participants showed care and concern for the environment. "Compared to the Supercars event and its devastating effects on the community, local businesses and the parklands, the Rising Tide event provides great benefit to Newcastle," NERG said. Councillors will vote on the event licence at an extraordinary meeting on August 12.
The Advertiser
29-07-2025
- Politics
- The Advertiser
Tilting at windmills is an act of self-harm
This is a sample of The Echidna newsletter sent out each weekday morning. To sign up for FREE, go to He's Labor's not-so-secret weapon, almost guaranteed to inflict damage on the Coalition whenever he opens his mouth. He's a gift to the government, even though he sits opposite. He is, of course, Barnaby Joyce, member for New England, one time deputy PM and former leader of the Nationals. As if the Coalition wasn't at a low enough ebb already, its numbers so depleted it barely registers as a political force. Along comes Barnaby with his latest doomed bid for attention - his private member's bill to scrap net zero. His more sensible Liberal partners are probably wondering if that brief separation after the election drubbing should have been permanent. Meanwhile, Labor is likely hoping for more Barnaby because if anyone makes the Coalition seem completely out of touch, it's him. Introducing his bill in the almost empty chamber yesterday, he cut a lonely figure - like an old and confused man yelling at clouds. His arguments for abandoning net zero were delivered in a hoarse voice. Shouting when few are listening can do that. Shouting is also necessary when you've failed to read the room and understand why your Liberal partners have been bleeding seats for so long now. Here's a hint, Barnaby: people want action on climate change. That's why they've chosen so many independents in once blue-ribbon Liberal seats. That's why the Coalition has been driven out of the cities. It's not just the domestic room Barnaby's failed to read. If he'd been paying attention he'd have learned that solar power is being embraced energetically around the world, even in the countries he lists as not setting net zero targets. New solar projects account for the equivalent of another coal-fired power station every 15 hours. Leading the charge towards renewables is China - one of the countries he singles out. Even Joyce's claim the bush is dead-set against renewables is flaky. A recent survey if 1000 regional residents in Renewable Energy Zones found 70 per cent supported renewables. I checked with a friend - a journalist based in the central west of NSW - who said opposition to wind farms and new transmission lines was probably overstated and the bigger issue was the lack of consultation over where they should go. Joyce's bill will get nowhere. The numbers tell us that. The only winner will be the government, which is thanking its lucky stars that not only does the electorate keep on returning Barnaby but he keeps throwing his oversized hat into the ring just like he did in October 2021. Remember that? That's when the then leader of the Nationals - yep, Barnaby Joyce - announced that he'd struck an agreement with then PM Scott Morrison to agree to committing to, you guessed it, net zero. So, really, this latest Quixotic titling at windmills is little more than a fall off the political planter box. A look-at-me moment Labor is relishing while the Coalition buries its face in its hands. HAVE YOUR SAY: Is Barnaby Joyce harming the Coalition with his stance on net zero? Would the Liberals have been wiser to make the brief split with the Nationals a permanent arrangement? Email us: echidna@ SHARE THE LOVE: If you enjoy The Echidna, forward it to a friend so they can sign up, too. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: - The United Nations is urging Australia to set ambitious climate and renewable energy targets in its next net-zero update to secure future jobs and a rich vein of clean exports for the country. - Parents are being warned their kids may be exploited online for child abuse material, amid a push to criminalise the use of apps that "nudify" pictures. - Three years after a fatal chopper crash, reality TV star Matt Wright has pleaded not guilty to attempting to pervert the course of justice. THEY SAID IT: "The shift to a cleaner energy economy won't happen overnight, and it will require tough choices along the way. But the debate is settled. Climate change is a fact." - Barack Obama YOU SAID IT: Donald Trump said he'd usher in a new golden age. He didn't expect it to be comedy and satire - at his expense. Sue writes: "Humour is my go-to for dealing with most things, good or bad. Particularly important in politics where so much is out of our immediate control and any limited control we have may be delayed or take a long time to have any effect. Laughter can provide a perspective that allows us to deal with difficult things, even if, sometimes, the humour is pretty dark. Favourite cartoonists include Petty, Leunig and Pickering but have to say that I really enjoy Pope's and Broelman's work as well." "Mockery, ridicule, satire and just laughing at them are highly powerful in politics and will bring down fake pretenders," writes John from Port Macquarie. "Imagine what the moniker Scottie from Marketing and all that cosplay behind truck steering wheels, pushing mops along already cleaned floors, waving lumps of coal, giving unwanted handshakes and conducting squeamish hairdressing sessions did to our most phoney of prime ministers." Deb writes: "Humour is essential in politics. It's able to cut through the crap and exposes the usually confronting main points. My opinions on an issue have definitely been shaped by cartoons or comedy sketches. And most importantly, they save us from despair. If we don't laugh we would flood the world with tears." This is a sample of The Echidna newsletter sent out each weekday morning. To sign up for FREE, go to He's Labor's not-so-secret weapon, almost guaranteed to inflict damage on the Coalition whenever he opens his mouth. He's a gift to the government, even though he sits opposite. He is, of course, Barnaby Joyce, member for New England, one time deputy PM and former leader of the Nationals. As if the Coalition wasn't at a low enough ebb already, its numbers so depleted it barely registers as a political force. Along comes Barnaby with his latest doomed bid for attention - his private member's bill to scrap net zero. His more sensible Liberal partners are probably wondering if that brief separation after the election drubbing should have been permanent. Meanwhile, Labor is likely hoping for more Barnaby because if anyone makes the Coalition seem completely out of touch, it's him. Introducing his bill in the almost empty chamber yesterday, he cut a lonely figure - like an old and confused man yelling at clouds. His arguments for abandoning net zero were delivered in a hoarse voice. Shouting when few are listening can do that. Shouting is also necessary when you've failed to read the room and understand why your Liberal partners have been bleeding seats for so long now. Here's a hint, Barnaby: people want action on climate change. That's why they've chosen so many independents in once blue-ribbon Liberal seats. That's why the Coalition has been driven out of the cities. It's not just the domestic room Barnaby's failed to read. If he'd been paying attention he'd have learned that solar power is being embraced energetically around the world, even in the countries he lists as not setting net zero targets. New solar projects account for the equivalent of another coal-fired power station every 15 hours. Leading the charge towards renewables is China - one of the countries he singles out. Even Joyce's claim the bush is dead-set against renewables is flaky. A recent survey if 1000 regional residents in Renewable Energy Zones found 70 per cent supported renewables. I checked with a friend - a journalist based in the central west of NSW - who said opposition to wind farms and new transmission lines was probably overstated and the bigger issue was the lack of consultation over where they should go. Joyce's bill will get nowhere. The numbers tell us that. The only winner will be the government, which is thanking its lucky stars that not only does the electorate keep on returning Barnaby but he keeps throwing his oversized hat into the ring just like he did in October 2021. Remember that? That's when the then leader of the Nationals - yep, Barnaby Joyce - announced that he'd struck an agreement with then PM Scott Morrison to agree to committing to, you guessed it, net zero. So, really, this latest Quixotic titling at windmills is little more than a fall off the political planter box. A look-at-me moment Labor is relishing while the Coalition buries its face in its hands. HAVE YOUR SAY: Is Barnaby Joyce harming the Coalition with his stance on net zero? Would the Liberals have been wiser to make the brief split with the Nationals a permanent arrangement? Email us: echidna@ SHARE THE LOVE: If you enjoy The Echidna, forward it to a friend so they can sign up, too. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: - The United Nations is urging Australia to set ambitious climate and renewable energy targets in its next net-zero update to secure future jobs and a rich vein of clean exports for the country. - Parents are being warned their kids may be exploited online for child abuse material, amid a push to criminalise the use of apps that "nudify" pictures. - Three years after a fatal chopper crash, reality TV star Matt Wright has pleaded not guilty to attempting to pervert the course of justice. THEY SAID IT: "The shift to a cleaner energy economy won't happen overnight, and it will require tough choices along the way. But the debate is settled. Climate change is a fact." - Barack Obama YOU SAID IT: Donald Trump said he'd usher in a new golden age. He didn't expect it to be comedy and satire - at his expense. Sue writes: "Humour is my go-to for dealing with most things, good or bad. Particularly important in politics where so much is out of our immediate control and any limited control we have may be delayed or take a long time to have any effect. Laughter can provide a perspective that allows us to deal with difficult things, even if, sometimes, the humour is pretty dark. Favourite cartoonists include Petty, Leunig and Pickering but have to say that I really enjoy Pope's and Broelman's work as well." "Mockery, ridicule, satire and just laughing at them are highly powerful in politics and will bring down fake pretenders," writes John from Port Macquarie. "Imagine what the moniker Scottie from Marketing and all that cosplay behind truck steering wheels, pushing mops along already cleaned floors, waving lumps of coal, giving unwanted handshakes and conducting squeamish hairdressing sessions did to our most phoney of prime ministers." Deb writes: "Humour is essential in politics. It's able to cut through the crap and exposes the usually confronting main points. My opinions on an issue have definitely been shaped by cartoons or comedy sketches. And most importantly, they save us from despair. If we don't laugh we would flood the world with tears." This is a sample of The Echidna newsletter sent out each weekday morning. To sign up for FREE, go to He's Labor's not-so-secret weapon, almost guaranteed to inflict damage on the Coalition whenever he opens his mouth. He's a gift to the government, even though he sits opposite. He is, of course, Barnaby Joyce, member for New England, one time deputy PM and former leader of the Nationals. As if the Coalition wasn't at a low enough ebb already, its numbers so depleted it barely registers as a political force. Along comes Barnaby with his latest doomed bid for attention - his private member's bill to scrap net zero. His more sensible Liberal partners are probably wondering if that brief separation after the election drubbing should have been permanent. Meanwhile, Labor is likely hoping for more Barnaby because if anyone makes the Coalition seem completely out of touch, it's him. Introducing his bill in the almost empty chamber yesterday, he cut a lonely figure - like an old and confused man yelling at clouds. His arguments for abandoning net zero were delivered in a hoarse voice. Shouting when few are listening can do that. Shouting is also necessary when you've failed to read the room and understand why your Liberal partners have been bleeding seats for so long now. Here's a hint, Barnaby: people want action on climate change. That's why they've chosen so many independents in once blue-ribbon Liberal seats. That's why the Coalition has been driven out of the cities. It's not just the domestic room Barnaby's failed to read. If he'd been paying attention he'd have learned that solar power is being embraced energetically around the world, even in the countries he lists as not setting net zero targets. New solar projects account for the equivalent of another coal-fired power station every 15 hours. Leading the charge towards renewables is China - one of the countries he singles out. Even Joyce's claim the bush is dead-set against renewables is flaky. A recent survey if 1000 regional residents in Renewable Energy Zones found 70 per cent supported renewables. I checked with a friend - a journalist based in the central west of NSW - who said opposition to wind farms and new transmission lines was probably overstated and the bigger issue was the lack of consultation over where they should go. Joyce's bill will get nowhere. The numbers tell us that. The only winner will be the government, which is thanking its lucky stars that not only does the electorate keep on returning Barnaby but he keeps throwing his oversized hat into the ring just like he did in October 2021. Remember that? That's when the then leader of the Nationals - yep, Barnaby Joyce - announced that he'd struck an agreement with then PM Scott Morrison to agree to committing to, you guessed it, net zero. So, really, this latest Quixotic titling at windmills is little more than a fall off the political planter box. A look-at-me moment Labor is relishing while the Coalition buries its face in its hands. HAVE YOUR SAY: Is Barnaby Joyce harming the Coalition with his stance on net zero? Would the Liberals have been wiser to make the brief split with the Nationals a permanent arrangement? Email us: echidna@ SHARE THE LOVE: If you enjoy The Echidna, forward it to a friend so they can sign up, too. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: - The United Nations is urging Australia to set ambitious climate and renewable energy targets in its next net-zero update to secure future jobs and a rich vein of clean exports for the country. - Parents are being warned their kids may be exploited online for child abuse material, amid a push to criminalise the use of apps that "nudify" pictures. - Three years after a fatal chopper crash, reality TV star Matt Wright has pleaded not guilty to attempting to pervert the course of justice. THEY SAID IT: "The shift to a cleaner energy economy won't happen overnight, and it will require tough choices along the way. But the debate is settled. Climate change is a fact." - Barack Obama YOU SAID IT: Donald Trump said he'd usher in a new golden age. He didn't expect it to be comedy and satire - at his expense. Sue writes: "Humour is my go-to for dealing with most things, good or bad. Particularly important in politics where so much is out of our immediate control and any limited control we have may be delayed or take a long time to have any effect. Laughter can provide a perspective that allows us to deal with difficult things, even if, sometimes, the humour is pretty dark. Favourite cartoonists include Petty, Leunig and Pickering but have to say that I really enjoy Pope's and Broelman's work as well." "Mockery, ridicule, satire and just laughing at them are highly powerful in politics and will bring down fake pretenders," writes John from Port Macquarie. "Imagine what the moniker Scottie from Marketing and all that cosplay behind truck steering wheels, pushing mops along already cleaned floors, waving lumps of coal, giving unwanted handshakes and conducting squeamish hairdressing sessions did to our most phoney of prime ministers." Deb writes: "Humour is essential in politics. It's able to cut through the crap and exposes the usually confronting main points. My opinions on an issue have definitely been shaped by cartoons or comedy sketches. And most importantly, they save us from despair. If we don't laugh we would flood the world with tears." This is a sample of The Echidna newsletter sent out each weekday morning. To sign up for FREE, go to He's Labor's not-so-secret weapon, almost guaranteed to inflict damage on the Coalition whenever he opens his mouth. He's a gift to the government, even though he sits opposite. He is, of course, Barnaby Joyce, member for New England, one time deputy PM and former leader of the Nationals. As if the Coalition wasn't at a low enough ebb already, its numbers so depleted it barely registers as a political force. Along comes Barnaby with his latest doomed bid for attention - his private member's bill to scrap net zero. His more sensible Liberal partners are probably wondering if that brief separation after the election drubbing should have been permanent. Meanwhile, Labor is likely hoping for more Barnaby because if anyone makes the Coalition seem completely out of touch, it's him. Introducing his bill in the almost empty chamber yesterday, he cut a lonely figure - like an old and confused man yelling at clouds. His arguments for abandoning net zero were delivered in a hoarse voice. Shouting when few are listening can do that. Shouting is also necessary when you've failed to read the room and understand why your Liberal partners have been bleeding seats for so long now. Here's a hint, Barnaby: people want action on climate change. That's why they've chosen so many independents in once blue-ribbon Liberal seats. That's why the Coalition has been driven out of the cities. It's not just the domestic room Barnaby's failed to read. If he'd been paying attention he'd have learned that solar power is being embraced energetically around the world, even in the countries he lists as not setting net zero targets. New solar projects account for the equivalent of another coal-fired power station every 15 hours. Leading the charge towards renewables is China - one of the countries he singles out. Even Joyce's claim the bush is dead-set against renewables is flaky. A recent survey if 1000 regional residents in Renewable Energy Zones found 70 per cent supported renewables. I checked with a friend - a journalist based in the central west of NSW - who said opposition to wind farms and new transmission lines was probably overstated and the bigger issue was the lack of consultation over where they should go. Joyce's bill will get nowhere. The numbers tell us that. The only winner will be the government, which is thanking its lucky stars that not only does the electorate keep on returning Barnaby but he keeps throwing his oversized hat into the ring just like he did in October 2021. Remember that? That's when the then leader of the Nationals - yep, Barnaby Joyce - announced that he'd struck an agreement with then PM Scott Morrison to agree to committing to, you guessed it, net zero. So, really, this latest Quixotic titling at windmills is little more than a fall off the political planter box. A look-at-me moment Labor is relishing while the Coalition buries its face in its hands. HAVE YOUR SAY: Is Barnaby Joyce harming the Coalition with his stance on net zero? Would the Liberals have been wiser to make the brief split with the Nationals a permanent arrangement? Email us: echidna@ SHARE THE LOVE: If you enjoy The Echidna, forward it to a friend so they can sign up, too. IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: - The United Nations is urging Australia to set ambitious climate and renewable energy targets in its next net-zero update to secure future jobs and a rich vein of clean exports for the country. - Parents are being warned their kids may be exploited online for child abuse material, amid a push to criminalise the use of apps that "nudify" pictures. - Three years after a fatal chopper crash, reality TV star Matt Wright has pleaded not guilty to attempting to pervert the course of justice. THEY SAID IT: "The shift to a cleaner energy economy won't happen overnight, and it will require tough choices along the way. But the debate is settled. Climate change is a fact." - Barack Obama YOU SAID IT: Donald Trump said he'd usher in a new golden age. He didn't expect it to be comedy and satire - at his expense. Sue writes: "Humour is my go-to for dealing with most things, good or bad. Particularly important in politics where so much is out of our immediate control and any limited control we have may be delayed or take a long time to have any effect. Laughter can provide a perspective that allows us to deal with difficult things, even if, sometimes, the humour is pretty dark. Favourite cartoonists include Petty, Leunig and Pickering but have to say that I really enjoy Pope's and Broelman's work as well." "Mockery, ridicule, satire and just laughing at them are highly powerful in politics and will bring down fake pretenders," writes John from Port Macquarie. "Imagine what the moniker Scottie from Marketing and all that cosplay behind truck steering wheels, pushing mops along already cleaned floors, waving lumps of coal, giving unwanted handshakes and conducting squeamish hairdressing sessions did to our most phoney of prime ministers." Deb writes: "Humour is essential in politics. It's able to cut through the crap and exposes the usually confronting main points. My opinions on an issue have definitely been shaped by cartoons or comedy sketches. And most importantly, they save us from despair. If we don't laugh we would flood the world with tears."
The Advertiser
17-07-2025
- Business
- The Advertiser
Construction of Australia's sustainable future goes beyond just renewables
Australia's clean energy transition is accelerating, and the construction sector is central to making it happen. As renewable energy generation and storage projects ramp up, so too does construction of the infrastructure required to deliver them, marking a clear shift from the decade-long focus on road and rail infrastructure projects. According to the 2024 Clean Energy Australia Report, 22 large-scale renewable energy projects were completed in 2023 alone, adding 2.8GW of capacity. That same year, investment in large-scale storage soared to $4.9 billion - a $3 billion increase from the previous year. The pipeline of current and future activity requires significant input from the construction sector, not only to build the renewable infrastructure itself, but also to support the associated needs - housing, roads and services - particularly in the regions. Historically, overseas contractors have played a major role in renewable infrastructure projects, but top-tier Australian construction companies are expanding their capacity to enter this space. Much of this growth is in the Eastern states - NSW, Victoria and Queensland - and particularly in regional areas. Major contractors capable of supporting safe, efficient and sustainable construction in Renewable Energy Zones (REZ), along with their suppliers, are well-placed to lead these massive projects. Designated by the NSW government, REZs are home to clusters of large-scale renewable energy projects. There are five REZs around the state, and they act as modern-day power stations, combining renewable energy infrastructure, storage and high voltage transmission infrastructure. Take the New England Solar Farm, near Uralla, for example. Located in the New England REZ, this 720MW solar and battery project will produce enough renewable energy to power 300,000 homes each year. A job like this doesn't just require a lift-and-shift approach to installing the infrastructure; it requires storage, transport, waste disposal and much more. At the peak of its construction, it's estimated there will be 450 jobs added, and while much of this will be made up of a regional workforce, there will still be a need for workers to travel to the region from outside the area. This brings up the issue of regional accommodation, which is a significant challenge for major developments. The NSW government's Regional Housing Taskforce discovered that regional NSW has faced significant housing supply and affordability pressures since the COVID-19 pandemic. Many regional towns, particularly in NSW, are facing high demand for accommodation that does not currently exist. Although there are generally new housing developments on the way in regional areas, these will take many years, often more than a decade, before they are completed and occupied. Major infrastructure endeavours, such as large-scale renewable energy projects, need short-term accommodation solutions for workers now. Regional renewable energy infrastructure projects do more than build services that help major cities. They create a new industry for rural and remote areas and bring immense value to the surrounding towns. For example, through the New England Solar Farm, renewable energy developer ACEN Australia is providing $7 million in community funding via its Social Investment Program (SIP) to help support thriving and resilient regional communities. During construction alone, the hundreds of workers at any site will access nearby towns and businesses, spending their money in the local economy. Once a project is complete, a long-term workforce can be built, with skilled job opportunities, which in turn encourages workers and their families to move to the regions. This grows that area, bringing in further benefits. Increased population and a solid local economy in regional towns drive further investment in infrastructure such as transport, education and health, while also encouraging some larger external businesses to set up new locations. Investing in renewable energy infrastructure is vital for a sustainable and prosperous future, but we must also invest in the right infrastructure to support the communities responsible for rolling it out. Australia's clean energy transition is accelerating, and the construction sector is central to making it happen. As renewable energy generation and storage projects ramp up, so too does construction of the infrastructure required to deliver them, marking a clear shift from the decade-long focus on road and rail infrastructure projects. According to the 2024 Clean Energy Australia Report, 22 large-scale renewable energy projects were completed in 2023 alone, adding 2.8GW of capacity. That same year, investment in large-scale storage soared to $4.9 billion - a $3 billion increase from the previous year. The pipeline of current and future activity requires significant input from the construction sector, not only to build the renewable infrastructure itself, but also to support the associated needs - housing, roads and services - particularly in the regions. Historically, overseas contractors have played a major role in renewable infrastructure projects, but top-tier Australian construction companies are expanding their capacity to enter this space. Much of this growth is in the Eastern states - NSW, Victoria and Queensland - and particularly in regional areas. Major contractors capable of supporting safe, efficient and sustainable construction in Renewable Energy Zones (REZ), along with their suppliers, are well-placed to lead these massive projects. Designated by the NSW government, REZs are home to clusters of large-scale renewable energy projects. There are five REZs around the state, and they act as modern-day power stations, combining renewable energy infrastructure, storage and high voltage transmission infrastructure. Take the New England Solar Farm, near Uralla, for example. Located in the New England REZ, this 720MW solar and battery project will produce enough renewable energy to power 300,000 homes each year. A job like this doesn't just require a lift-and-shift approach to installing the infrastructure; it requires storage, transport, waste disposal and much more. At the peak of its construction, it's estimated there will be 450 jobs added, and while much of this will be made up of a regional workforce, there will still be a need for workers to travel to the region from outside the area. This brings up the issue of regional accommodation, which is a significant challenge for major developments. The NSW government's Regional Housing Taskforce discovered that regional NSW has faced significant housing supply and affordability pressures since the COVID-19 pandemic. Many regional towns, particularly in NSW, are facing high demand for accommodation that does not currently exist. Although there are generally new housing developments on the way in regional areas, these will take many years, often more than a decade, before they are completed and occupied. Major infrastructure endeavours, such as large-scale renewable energy projects, need short-term accommodation solutions for workers now. Regional renewable energy infrastructure projects do more than build services that help major cities. They create a new industry for rural and remote areas and bring immense value to the surrounding towns. For example, through the New England Solar Farm, renewable energy developer ACEN Australia is providing $7 million in community funding via its Social Investment Program (SIP) to help support thriving and resilient regional communities. During construction alone, the hundreds of workers at any site will access nearby towns and businesses, spending their money in the local economy. Once a project is complete, a long-term workforce can be built, with skilled job opportunities, which in turn encourages workers and their families to move to the regions. This grows that area, bringing in further benefits. Increased population and a solid local economy in regional towns drive further investment in infrastructure such as transport, education and health, while also encouraging some larger external businesses to set up new locations. Investing in renewable energy infrastructure is vital for a sustainable and prosperous future, but we must also invest in the right infrastructure to support the communities responsible for rolling it out. Australia's clean energy transition is accelerating, and the construction sector is central to making it happen. As renewable energy generation and storage projects ramp up, so too does construction of the infrastructure required to deliver them, marking a clear shift from the decade-long focus on road and rail infrastructure projects. According to the 2024 Clean Energy Australia Report, 22 large-scale renewable energy projects were completed in 2023 alone, adding 2.8GW of capacity. That same year, investment in large-scale storage soared to $4.9 billion - a $3 billion increase from the previous year. The pipeline of current and future activity requires significant input from the construction sector, not only to build the renewable infrastructure itself, but also to support the associated needs - housing, roads and services - particularly in the regions. Historically, overseas contractors have played a major role in renewable infrastructure projects, but top-tier Australian construction companies are expanding their capacity to enter this space. Much of this growth is in the Eastern states - NSW, Victoria and Queensland - and particularly in regional areas. Major contractors capable of supporting safe, efficient and sustainable construction in Renewable Energy Zones (REZ), along with their suppliers, are well-placed to lead these massive projects. Designated by the NSW government, REZs are home to clusters of large-scale renewable energy projects. There are five REZs around the state, and they act as modern-day power stations, combining renewable energy infrastructure, storage and high voltage transmission infrastructure. Take the New England Solar Farm, near Uralla, for example. Located in the New England REZ, this 720MW solar and battery project will produce enough renewable energy to power 300,000 homes each year. A job like this doesn't just require a lift-and-shift approach to installing the infrastructure; it requires storage, transport, waste disposal and much more. At the peak of its construction, it's estimated there will be 450 jobs added, and while much of this will be made up of a regional workforce, there will still be a need for workers to travel to the region from outside the area. This brings up the issue of regional accommodation, which is a significant challenge for major developments. The NSW government's Regional Housing Taskforce discovered that regional NSW has faced significant housing supply and affordability pressures since the COVID-19 pandemic. Many regional towns, particularly in NSW, are facing high demand for accommodation that does not currently exist. Although there are generally new housing developments on the way in regional areas, these will take many years, often more than a decade, before they are completed and occupied. Major infrastructure endeavours, such as large-scale renewable energy projects, need short-term accommodation solutions for workers now. Regional renewable energy infrastructure projects do more than build services that help major cities. They create a new industry for rural and remote areas and bring immense value to the surrounding towns. For example, through the New England Solar Farm, renewable energy developer ACEN Australia is providing $7 million in community funding via its Social Investment Program (SIP) to help support thriving and resilient regional communities. During construction alone, the hundreds of workers at any site will access nearby towns and businesses, spending their money in the local economy. Once a project is complete, a long-term workforce can be built, with skilled job opportunities, which in turn encourages workers and their families to move to the regions. This grows that area, bringing in further benefits. Increased population and a solid local economy in regional towns drive further investment in infrastructure such as transport, education and health, while also encouraging some larger external businesses to set up new locations. Investing in renewable energy infrastructure is vital for a sustainable and prosperous future, but we must also invest in the right infrastructure to support the communities responsible for rolling it out. Australia's clean energy transition is accelerating, and the construction sector is central to making it happen. As renewable energy generation and storage projects ramp up, so too does construction of the infrastructure required to deliver them, marking a clear shift from the decade-long focus on road and rail infrastructure projects. According to the 2024 Clean Energy Australia Report, 22 large-scale renewable energy projects were completed in 2023 alone, adding 2.8GW of capacity. That same year, investment in large-scale storage soared to $4.9 billion - a $3 billion increase from the previous year. The pipeline of current and future activity requires significant input from the construction sector, not only to build the renewable infrastructure itself, but also to support the associated needs - housing, roads and services - particularly in the regions. Historically, overseas contractors have played a major role in renewable infrastructure projects, but top-tier Australian construction companies are expanding their capacity to enter this space. Much of this growth is in the Eastern states - NSW, Victoria and Queensland - and particularly in regional areas. Major contractors capable of supporting safe, efficient and sustainable construction in Renewable Energy Zones (REZ), along with their suppliers, are well-placed to lead these massive projects. Designated by the NSW government, REZs are home to clusters of large-scale renewable energy projects. There are five REZs around the state, and they act as modern-day power stations, combining renewable energy infrastructure, storage and high voltage transmission infrastructure. Take the New England Solar Farm, near Uralla, for example. Located in the New England REZ, this 720MW solar and battery project will produce enough renewable energy to power 300,000 homes each year. A job like this doesn't just require a lift-and-shift approach to installing the infrastructure; it requires storage, transport, waste disposal and much more. At the peak of its construction, it's estimated there will be 450 jobs added, and while much of this will be made up of a regional workforce, there will still be a need for workers to travel to the region from outside the area. This brings up the issue of regional accommodation, which is a significant challenge for major developments. The NSW government's Regional Housing Taskforce discovered that regional NSW has faced significant housing supply and affordability pressures since the COVID-19 pandemic. Many regional towns, particularly in NSW, are facing high demand for accommodation that does not currently exist. Although there are generally new housing developments on the way in regional areas, these will take many years, often more than a decade, before they are completed and occupied. Major infrastructure endeavours, such as large-scale renewable energy projects, need short-term accommodation solutions for workers now. Regional renewable energy infrastructure projects do more than build services that help major cities. They create a new industry for rural and remote areas and bring immense value to the surrounding towns. For example, through the New England Solar Farm, renewable energy developer ACEN Australia is providing $7 million in community funding via its Social Investment Program (SIP) to help support thriving and resilient regional communities. During construction alone, the hundreds of workers at any site will access nearby towns and businesses, spending their money in the local economy. Once a project is complete, a long-term workforce can be built, with skilled job opportunities, which in turn encourages workers and their families to move to the regions. This grows that area, bringing in further benefits. Increased population and a solid local economy in regional towns drive further investment in infrastructure such as transport, education and health, while also encouraging some larger external businesses to set up new locations. Investing in renewable energy infrastructure is vital for a sustainable and prosperous future, but we must also invest in the right infrastructure to support the communities responsible for rolling it out.
The Advertiser
07-07-2025
- Business
- The Advertiser
Artificial intelligence could actually bring about an investment boom for regional Australia
There's a big leap under way in Australia's digital transformation and it's happening far from the skyscrapers of the major cities, instead humming away in the paddocks, plains, and proud communities of regional Australia. While major cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane have already established data centre infrastructures, a lack of available space means regional Australia is emerging as the new frontier of this burgeoning sector, with companies looking further afield - to places like Bendigo, Dubbo, Ballarat, and Townsville. This is a win for regional communities because it will not only improve local telecommunications networks with faster internet and improved reliability and energy infrastructure, but will also create jobs. From electricians, engineers, and construction workers to IT technicians and security personnel, these facilities will support a range of employment opportunities and offer new pathways for young people to gain digital skills and stay in their communities rather than migrate to the cities. There's a boost for regional businesses too, improving reliability for cloud services particularly in the agriculture and health sectors which are increasingly reliant on digital platforms such as telehealth. Australia is already home to more than 250 data centres with 27 located in regional areas and that figure is set to increase significantly within the next decade. If your town is one of the 27 which already exist, chances are you don't even realise, because the nondescript buildings just look like an ordinary office space or warehouse. Only these ones house a group of networked computer servers used by organisations for the remote storage and processing of large amounts of data. Australia has a high per capita data consumption, ranking among the top in the world with consumers averaging around 361GB per month and the rapid advancement of AI, from large language models to generative applications, is driving unprecedented growth in data processing and storage needs. As more of us use AI, there's a capacity crisis for data storage centers, pushing them to evolve in scale, efficiency, and technology. According to Knight Frank's 2025 Global Data Centres Report, Australia has become the second-largest destination for data centre investment with a projected annual growth rate around 20 per cent until 2030. Big businesses are investing huge amounts of money and resources into regional parts of the country with demand increasing tenfold as the nation's data centre market experiences unprecedented growth. Particularly towns in Renewable Energy Zones (REZs), are becoming prime locations for these developments as the increasing use of AI spurs demand and developers tap into reliable energy sites and affordable land. Land suitable for data centres can be worth 150 per cent to 200 per cent more than its usual market value, often found in commercial areas, old warehouses and industrial sheds that can be transformed. Once operational, data centres can be valued up to 20 times more than traditional commercial properties due to their role in supporting digital economies. Decentralising digital infrastructure away from the cities will not only build resilience on the network but will put regional communities which have long been on the periphery of economic and technological progress on the digital map. There's a big leap under way in Australia's digital transformation and it's happening far from the skyscrapers of the major cities, instead humming away in the paddocks, plains, and proud communities of regional Australia. While major cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane have already established data centre infrastructures, a lack of available space means regional Australia is emerging as the new frontier of this burgeoning sector, with companies looking further afield - to places like Bendigo, Dubbo, Ballarat, and Townsville. This is a win for regional communities because it will not only improve local telecommunications networks with faster internet and improved reliability and energy infrastructure, but will also create jobs. From electricians, engineers, and construction workers to IT technicians and security personnel, these facilities will support a range of employment opportunities and offer new pathways for young people to gain digital skills and stay in their communities rather than migrate to the cities. There's a boost for regional businesses too, improving reliability for cloud services particularly in the agriculture and health sectors which are increasingly reliant on digital platforms such as telehealth. Australia is already home to more than 250 data centres with 27 located in regional areas and that figure is set to increase significantly within the next decade. If your town is one of the 27 which already exist, chances are you don't even realise, because the nondescript buildings just look like an ordinary office space or warehouse. Only these ones house a group of networked computer servers used by organisations for the remote storage and processing of large amounts of data. Australia has a high per capita data consumption, ranking among the top in the world with consumers averaging around 361GB per month and the rapid advancement of AI, from large language models to generative applications, is driving unprecedented growth in data processing and storage needs. As more of us use AI, there's a capacity crisis for data storage centers, pushing them to evolve in scale, efficiency, and technology. According to Knight Frank's 2025 Global Data Centres Report, Australia has become the second-largest destination for data centre investment with a projected annual growth rate around 20 per cent until 2030. Big businesses are investing huge amounts of money and resources into regional parts of the country with demand increasing tenfold as the nation's data centre market experiences unprecedented growth. Particularly towns in Renewable Energy Zones (REZs), are becoming prime locations for these developments as the increasing use of AI spurs demand and developers tap into reliable energy sites and affordable land. Land suitable for data centres can be worth 150 per cent to 200 per cent more than its usual market value, often found in commercial areas, old warehouses and industrial sheds that can be transformed. Once operational, data centres can be valued up to 20 times more than traditional commercial properties due to their role in supporting digital economies. Decentralising digital infrastructure away from the cities will not only build resilience on the network but will put regional communities which have long been on the periphery of economic and technological progress on the digital map. There's a big leap under way in Australia's digital transformation and it's happening far from the skyscrapers of the major cities, instead humming away in the paddocks, plains, and proud communities of regional Australia. While major cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane have already established data centre infrastructures, a lack of available space means regional Australia is emerging as the new frontier of this burgeoning sector, with companies looking further afield - to places like Bendigo, Dubbo, Ballarat, and Townsville. This is a win for regional communities because it will not only improve local telecommunications networks with faster internet and improved reliability and energy infrastructure, but will also create jobs. From electricians, engineers, and construction workers to IT technicians and security personnel, these facilities will support a range of employment opportunities and offer new pathways for young people to gain digital skills and stay in their communities rather than migrate to the cities. There's a boost for regional businesses too, improving reliability for cloud services particularly in the agriculture and health sectors which are increasingly reliant on digital platforms such as telehealth. Australia is already home to more than 250 data centres with 27 located in regional areas and that figure is set to increase significantly within the next decade. If your town is one of the 27 which already exist, chances are you don't even realise, because the nondescript buildings just look like an ordinary office space or warehouse. Only these ones house a group of networked computer servers used by organisations for the remote storage and processing of large amounts of data. Australia has a high per capita data consumption, ranking among the top in the world with consumers averaging around 361GB per month and the rapid advancement of AI, from large language models to generative applications, is driving unprecedented growth in data processing and storage needs. As more of us use AI, there's a capacity crisis for data storage centers, pushing them to evolve in scale, efficiency, and technology. According to Knight Frank's 2025 Global Data Centres Report, Australia has become the second-largest destination for data centre investment with a projected annual growth rate around 20 per cent until 2030. Big businesses are investing huge amounts of money and resources into regional parts of the country with demand increasing tenfold as the nation's data centre market experiences unprecedented growth. Particularly towns in Renewable Energy Zones (REZs), are becoming prime locations for these developments as the increasing use of AI spurs demand and developers tap into reliable energy sites and affordable land. Land suitable for data centres can be worth 150 per cent to 200 per cent more than its usual market value, often found in commercial areas, old warehouses and industrial sheds that can be transformed. Once operational, data centres can be valued up to 20 times more than traditional commercial properties due to their role in supporting digital economies. Decentralising digital infrastructure away from the cities will not only build resilience on the network but will put regional communities which have long been on the periphery of economic and technological progress on the digital map. There's a big leap under way in Australia's digital transformation and it's happening far from the skyscrapers of the major cities, instead humming away in the paddocks, plains, and proud communities of regional Australia. While major cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane have already established data centre infrastructures, a lack of available space means regional Australia is emerging as the new frontier of this burgeoning sector, with companies looking further afield - to places like Bendigo, Dubbo, Ballarat, and Townsville. This is a win for regional communities because it will not only improve local telecommunications networks with faster internet and improved reliability and energy infrastructure, but will also create jobs. From electricians, engineers, and construction workers to IT technicians and security personnel, these facilities will support a range of employment opportunities and offer new pathways for young people to gain digital skills and stay in their communities rather than migrate to the cities. There's a boost for regional businesses too, improving reliability for cloud services particularly in the agriculture and health sectors which are increasingly reliant on digital platforms such as telehealth. Australia is already home to more than 250 data centres with 27 located in regional areas and that figure is set to increase significantly within the next decade. If your town is one of the 27 which already exist, chances are you don't even realise, because the nondescript buildings just look like an ordinary office space or warehouse. Only these ones house a group of networked computer servers used by organisations for the remote storage and processing of large amounts of data. Australia has a high per capita data consumption, ranking among the top in the world with consumers averaging around 361GB per month and the rapid advancement of AI, from large language models to generative applications, is driving unprecedented growth in data processing and storage needs. As more of us use AI, there's a capacity crisis for data storage centers, pushing them to evolve in scale, efficiency, and technology. According to Knight Frank's 2025 Global Data Centres Report, Australia has become the second-largest destination for data centre investment with a projected annual growth rate around 20 per cent until 2030. Big businesses are investing huge amounts of money and resources into regional parts of the country with demand increasing tenfold as the nation's data centre market experiences unprecedented growth. Particularly towns in Renewable Energy Zones (REZs), are becoming prime locations for these developments as the increasing use of AI spurs demand and developers tap into reliable energy sites and affordable land. Land suitable for data centres can be worth 150 per cent to 200 per cent more than its usual market value, often found in commercial areas, old warehouses and industrial sheds that can be transformed. Once operational, data centres can be valued up to 20 times more than traditional commercial properties due to their role in supporting digital economies. Decentralising digital infrastructure away from the cities will not only build resilience on the network but will put regional communities which have long been on the periphery of economic and technological progress on the digital map.
Perth Now
28-06-2025
- Business
- Perth Now
Workforce worries cast shadow over net zero transition
Sparkies may be the keystone occupation of Australia's net zero transition but that hasn't made landing an apprenticeship any easier. A shortage of trainers for classroom modules and few incentives for employers to bring on fresh recruits are ongoing hurdles for aspiring electricians. But there's an additional issue, according to Electrical Trades Union national secretary Michael Wright, and it has him particularly animated of late: the long delays and uncertainty plaguing big clean energy and transmission projects. Unions aren't usually so vocal about problems facing developers but Mr Wright says protracted and varied project timelines are hampering the mammoth workforce upskilling task at hand. "We can do things that help apprentices get through, as long as there's work for them to go to," he tells AAP. The slow approvals processes plaguing large-scale wind, solar, batteries and transmission have been well-documented and the reasons varied, with backlogs and inefficiencies in the federal government's troubled nature protection laws among the impediments. Mr Wright says approvals limbo is adding insecurity to an employment opportunity that was already front-loaded to the initial construction phase of wind, solar and other infrastructure before demand for work starts tapering off. There's more to the story, such as supporting workers moving from project-to-project via portable leave entitlements and income protection, but establishing a firm pipeline of work is among the union's priorities. At risk is fewer employers taking on apprentices and less trainees sticking with it, risking the pace of the energy transition. Involved "from the power made to the power point", an extra 42,500 electrical workers are needed by 2030, based on Jobs and Skills Australia estimates inclusive of the federal government's clean manufacturing vision. National Electrical and Communications Association's Tom Emeleus shares concerns that energy infrastructure work could ramp up suddenly, putting pressure on an industry that takes four years to train its people. "Where it will land is your current electricians being drawn into the big projects once they run and you won't be able to find a local person to change over your gas cooktop," the industry body's general manager of training and apprenticeships tells AAP. Enforcing trainee quotas across Renewable Energy Zones and other infrastructure endeavours with government funding and involvement would help keep apprentices coming through the ranks, he says. Liam Reichman, a third-year apprentice from Brisbane, is not particularly concerned about the boom and bust nature of the construction projects he will be working on, viewing it as the historical norm. "The good thing about having an electrical licence is you can take it anywhere," he says. But he is surprised by how difficult it is to nail down an apprenticeship given the forecasts of extremely high demand for electrical work in the future. "A lot of companies just don't want an 18-year-old with no experience in construction or in electricity or anything like that, so yeah, it does make sense," he says. He feels fortunate to have landed a decent-paying job but starting off on low award rates in his first year was tough and he would have struggled had he not been living with his parents. He's also been spared a long wait to do the classroom section of his qualification because his employer runs its own registered training organisation. But not all trainees are so lucky. "I know an apprentice who waited, like, 18 months before she could do her first TAFE block," he says. Mr Emeleus says there is no shortage of people interested in a career in electrical work but not enough training places and teachers to service the formal component. Governments have been investing in TAFEs but he is aware of several public facilities sitting empty and wonders if funds could be better directed. Leasing under-utilised space to non-government providers could be one way to help ease training bottlenecks. Bringing workers in from overseas is another lever that would need to be pulled to address future workforce needs, Mr Emeleus says, though migration pathways could be just as cumbersome and time-consuming as training from scratch. Scott Dwyer, the research director from University of Technology Sydney's Institute for Sustainable Futures, expects vast job creation across all aspects of decarbonisation, including critical minerals and the circular economy. "We're not just transitioning out of coal and going into solar and wind, there are actually new jobs being created here," he tells AAP. The university has done future workforce modelling across different energy transition scenarios. A key finding is that opportunities created in the initial renewables construction boom line up neatly with abundant ongoing maintenance work that will be needed for the electric car infrastructure network in the later phases. "So some of these different aspects of electrification can be complementary." But Dr Dwyer says net zero industries will also be competing for workers at different stages of the transition and everyone involved needs to plan accordingly. "We're at this point where we have these carbon reduction net zero targets and we need this rapid scale-up in the energy workforce if we're going to transition."
