Leading Edge Data Centre earmarks Wagga as future location for data hub

Leading Edge Data Centre's chief executive Chris Thorpe shared at a virtual round-table, organised by Committee 4 Wagga, his company's intent to expand digital infrastructure beyond metropolitan areas to cities like Wagga.

It has become "very evident" during the pandemic that digital connectivity is a real problem in regional Australia, Mr Thorpe said, which is only continues to deteriorate by more people forced to work from home.

"Most of the infrastructure is in those capital cities, which is all well and good until you start to move out to regional locations," he said.

"We need to make sure regional Australia does not miss out and stays competitive not only on a national basis, but a global basis."

He said there is "a golden opportunity" in the next 18 months to open-up access and improve digital connectivity, which could make population migration far more attractive.

However, Mr Thorpe has not confirmed a time frame of when a regional data centre will be constructed within the city's boundary with the priority being to first build up demand. Although, two locations are being considered with negotiations underway.

"If we are carrying critical government infrastructure that data centre needs to keep powering through any type of event," he said.

"So finding areas of land outside the flood zone, but still close to the city centre has been a real challenge."

During the webinar, EQI Consulting chief executive Peter Auhl said the data centre's initiative will help regional areas gain access to better talent and improve the quality of life for existing residents.

"As quite a large nation with quite a small population, I still find it frustrating that we have two cities almost holding half our population," he said. "So anything we can help people have a better quality of life and access is critical to our nation's success."