Representatives from Wingecarribee Shire Council yesterday appeared before the Senate Environment and Communications References Committee’s Inquiry into Artificial Intelligence and Data Centres.
The appearance follows Council’s submission to the inquiry, which was endorsed at the Ordinary Council Meeting on 19 August.
Cr Heather Champion attended on behalf of Mayor Erin Foley, while Director Communities and Place Mr Michael McCabe attended on behalf of General Manager Lisa Miscamble.
Wingecarribee Shire Council Mayor Erin Foley said: “It’s important that the Wingecarribee community was represented at this public forum. I’m pleased Cr Champion and Mr McCabe were able to share residents’ concerns and priorities with the Senate.”
Representatives from other local councils also gave evidence, including from City of Sydney and Lane Cove.
In an earlier session, representatives from Stop The Gas Plant – Southern Highlands and Win Zero also appeared before the committee.
The Senate inquiry is addressing the effectiveness of existing regulatory frameworks in managing the growth of data centres in Australia, including in relation to existing and future deals between the government and global AI companies, and the potential impacts of AI and data centres on Australian communities, industries and the environment, water and energy.
