Ella GEORGE (Lara) (14:32): (1773) My question is for the Minister for Artificial Intelligence and the Digital Economy. How will the government ensure a balance between the need for data centres and protecting residential communities? Recently, community members have contacted me about their concerns regarding the proposed development of data centres across the Lara electorate. In particular, they have concerns as a data centre developer has recently purchased land in the northern Geelong growth area, which is a future residential community. Many residents are worried about the impacts that data centres can have on community character and the demands that they place on energy and water. Residents feel that with many of these proposals there is a lack of clear information about the project for locals and there are limited opportunities for further input by community members. This has led to a feeling of uncertainty and frustration among the community. Community engagement is crucial when it comes to proposals such as these, and it is vital that residents can contribute their views and local knowledge to the decision-making process. As a local member of Parliament I will always back the community being a key part of the decision-making process, and I look forward to hearing from the minister.