Bundey’s Existing Infrastructure Key to Proposed AI Mega-Campus
The Mid North has found itself at the centre of international attention following plans for a massive artificial intelligence data centre campus near Robertstown.
Technology company IREN has announced plans for an 800MW data centre development at Bundey. The project is described as one of the largest announced AI infrastructure developments in the Asia-Pacific region.
The proposed facility will be connected directly to Bundey’s 330kV substation and draw up to 800 megawatts of electricity — enough to power hundreds of thousands of homes.
According to IREN’s Australian founders, Daniel and Will Roberts, the location was chosen due to its flat land as well as South Australia’s “abundant renewable energy” and Bundey’s existing electricity and fibre infrastructure.
A Major Opportunity for the Goyder Region
Regional Council of Goyder CEO, David Stevenson, said the project would add a new level of economic activity to the region, as well as sustainability for the community.
“Council received a very high-level briefing on the potential project earlier this year,” he said.
“At that time, there was still considerable exploratory work underway, including access to the electricity supply and other services required to sustain the project, given its magnitude. As to how likely it is to materialise, this is yet to crystallise. However, the State Government and Iren both appear to have a high degree of confidence.”
He said if the project were to proceed, it would bring significant employment opportunities.
” Projects of this nature create a scale of dimensional change not seen before, which complements the renewable power generation projects already embedded in the region.”
SA Premier Backs Proposal
South Australia’s Premier, Peter Malinauskas, has also welcomed the proposal.
“Data centres are a significant economic opportunity, which can bring high-quality jobs, stronger renewable energy infrastructure and new opportunities for regional communities,” he said.
Mr Malinauskas said South Australia’s renewable energy leadership, investment in higher education and pro-business outlook had helped position the state to capitalise on the rapid growth of artificial intelligence.
“South Australia’s leadership in renewable energy, our record investment in higher education, our unashamed pro-jobs and pro-business outlook and appointing the nation’s first dedicated Minister for Artificial Intelligence means we are uniquely placed to seize the opportunities of AI,” he said.
He said the proposed Bundey campus had the potential to create hundreds of construction jobs, support long-term skilled employment and strengthen South Australia’s position as a technology and innovation hub within the Asia-Pacific region.
While the proposal has generated significant interest, questions remain around approvals, timelines and what direct benefits the project could deliver for local communities if it proceeds.
IREN expects the first stage of the development to be “energised ” from 2028.
