JCU and TCC commit to new high-tech Data Centre in NQ

The energy-efficient Tier 3 managed data centre, which will be constructed in a Category 5 Cyclone rated building, will allow global companies such as banks, information technology and knowledge services companies to locate facilities and jobs in North Queensland.

The Data Centre is expected to create new jobs and provide an annual economic boost for Townsville.

JCU Vice Chancellor Professor Harding said the data centre is crucial infrastructure for the University and the region.

“James Cook University has identified a need for a data centre to meet our own needs, and we are delighted to be signing on as anchor tenants for this project.

“We hope that this project will be a catalyst for the future growth of the digital economy in the region,” Professor Harding said.

Mayor Jenny Hill said the Data Centre was crucial to expanding Townsville’s capacity and creating opportunities for local businesses to grow and attracting new jobs to the city.

“Both Council and JCU have worked collaboratively to ensure the Data Centre will be built in Townsville and the benefits be spread locally.”

“This critical infrastructure will cement the city’s reputation as a leader in regional Australia,” Cr Hill said.

Both organisations have signed an agreement to be anchor tenants for the Data Centre, which will also provide services – such as cloud storage – to local businesses.

Townsville will join other fast-growing regions in Australia as hosts of data centres.

Both Optus and Schneider Electric have committed to supporting the data centre as part of a joint consortium bid with iSeek, a Queensland based company.