The Greens have tabled one of Tasmania’s largest parliamentary e-petitions ever, from 10,035 Tasmanians demanding a moratorium on AI data centres until safeguards to protect the community and environment are in place.
The Greens will debate a motion in Private Members’ Time calling for transparency on these developments and a moratorium until guardrails are in place to protect Tasmania.
Cecily Rosol MP, Greens Member for Bass
We’ve heard really clearly from the community how concerned they are about AI data factories proceeding without the Liberal Government consulting them or putting guardrails in place to protect their interests. I was proud to have tabled one of the largest parliamentary e-petitions ever, signed by over 10,000 Tasmanians, that shows just how concerned Tasmanians are.
The huge number of people who’ve signed this petition shows just how passionate the community feel about the need for a moratorium on any more facilities until guardrails are in place. We urge the Liberal Government to finally listen to the community’s calls.
Tabatha Badger MP, Greens Spokesperson for Science and Information Technology
The fact more than 10,000 people have signed this petition is no surprise. Tasmanians are deeply concerned and being kept in the dark when it comes to AI data centres.
The latest AI factory proposed for Wesley Vale is set to undergo planning assessment next month and the Office of the Coordinator General is speaking to other AI and data centre proponents behind closed doors. Still, there won’t be any legislation or regulations in places to ensure the community benefits, and the environment is protected which is why a moratorium is needed.
In Question Time the Premier refused to provide Tasmanians transparency on other AI data centre proponents working with the OCG to set up shop in Tasmania. He has demonstrated he would rather appease Firmus and other developers than listen to the basic asks of Tasmania.
We need a moratorium on AI data centres so no more facilities are given the go ahead before safeguards for the community and environment are in place. The Liberals need to heed the calls of the community and protect them ahead of the private interests of billionaire tech bros.
The Greens have heard Tasmanians’ concerns loud and clear, which is why we will move for a moratorium on AI data centres until guardrails are established in Private Members’ Time.
