What you need to know about data centres

Published on 16 July 2026

Over the past few weeks there has been media and online commentary which has raised questions for residents about data centres in the City of Melton.

Here’s what you need to know about data centres in our City:

When applying for approval, data centre operators can choose to have their application assessed by either Council or the State Government – and to date, all applicants have opted to apply to the State Government for approval.
Council’s role is when applicants apply via State Government is to provide feedback through the State’s planning permit process which is led by the Department of Transport and Planning on behalf of the Minister for Planning.
Melton City Council has not received any planning permit applications for data centres in the City of Melton.
Council is aware of three applications for data centres in the City of Melton – one in Cobblebank (under construction) and two in Truganina (both are in the planning phase).
Council has not received any formal notification from the State Government about the proposed data centre in Plumpton – but like some residents, we have received informal communication from the applicant.
Key concerns relating to data centres generally include taking up a lot of industrial land, the volume of water and energy resources needed, impacts on surrounding infrastructure and low long-term employment benefits.
Given that Council has no decision-making power when an applicant goes via the State planning process, residents who require further information should contact the Department of Transport and Planning, your Local State Member or the Minister for Planning.