Minns Labor Government welcomes OpenAI’s investment to NSW

The Minns Labor Government is working hard to cement NSW as the nation's capital for innovation and the state's status as a globally attractive investment destination. NSW is already a leader in data centres and technology infrastructure and the state is going from strength to strength.

Data centres are critical infrastructure to support NSW's booming digital economy so the Minns Labor Government welcomes the proposal from OpenAI and data centre provider NEXTDC to establish the $7 billion data centre facility in Eastern Creek.

This announcement comes only days after OpenAI officially opened their first Australian office in Sydney.

NSW is also one of the top jurisdictions in the world for number of data centres with over 90 already in operation and another 20 under assessment.

These opportunities for supporting innovative businesses through skills development, local innovation and AI adoption are key examples of the NSW Industry Policy, NSW Innovation Blueprint and NSW Trade and Investment Strategy in action.

Together, these developments deliver on the NSW Government's commitment to supporting AI infrastructure that is responsible and supports workers across the state.

Crucially, they will provide significant economic opportunities, strengthen STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) development pathways and accelerate job growth across key sectors including manufacturing.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said:

"Sydney is Australia's digital capital, backed by world-class talent and strong government investment - and OpenAI's arrival here takes that even further.

"In the years ahead, thousands of businesses will run smarter, be more competitive and innovative because some of the world's most advanced tech is calling New South Wales home.

"Big private investments like this today are how we create jobs and grow the economy tomorrow."

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Acting Minister for Innovation,Science and Technology, Paul Scully said:

"That OpenAI has chosen NSW as the first base in Asia Pacific cements the state as a global technology player.

"NSW is establishing itself as one of the top jurisdictions in the world for data centres. That's due to our reputation as a sophisticated tech and financial hub, our drive to increase renewable energy and our skilled workforce which we know attracts these investments and makes them truly sustainable."

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:

"As a government, NSW is leading the way on the responsible use of AI to harness its potential for good.

"Through our updated AI Assessment Framework and the new Office for AI, we are positioning NSW for a brighter future when it comes to the safe and ethical use of technology to improve public services and support our public sector workforce."

Minister for Finance Courtney Houssos said:

"This announcement is a testament to the ambitious, forward-looking approach the Minns Labor Government is taking to secure international investment in NSW.

"We want to attract major investment to NSW and we want to see innovation, including AI, used to improve productivity across all industries."