AI Kill Switch and Data Centre Control Bill 2026

Ms LE (Fowler) (10:33): I second the motion. As the member for Calare said, AI improves our lives. There's no question it brings enormous opportunity.

Used well, AI can help Australians work more efficiently, more effectively and more productively. My concern is not about stopping the technology; it's about ensuring Australians are prepared for the changes it will bring and that technology develops in a way that serves Australians—all Australians. The questions for now are: How are we going to prepare our workforce?

How are we training our young people at school, TAFEs and universities, equipping them with the skills that they need? And how do we ensure workers already in the workforce are not left behind? As the member for Calare mentioned, on the data centre side, we are all very concerned about it.

Australia has around 165 operational data centres, with at least 225 more proposed, more than double the number a year ago. Most of this growth is centred in New South Wales and Victoria, and, in south-west Sydney, there are about 15 that have already been fast tracked. For me, the concern is around, as the member for Calare said, the energy use and water use and how that will impact our community, especially those in Fowler who are struggling at the moment with the cost of living and increase in energy bills, and the cost of groceries and food.

All of that is there now, but with a data centre the need for energy and water will add more costs to our communities, families and small businesses. I commend this bill to the House, and I support the member for Calare's bill enormously. Debate adjourned.