Australia’s largest datacentre operator NextDCs shares dive as Melbourne expansion delayed

NextDC has told investors that its plans to double the size of its west Melbourne datacentre has hit an obstacle in community objections to 22m high power poles

Australia’s largest datacentre operator has been forced to delay the controversial expansion of its M3 site in Melbourne’s west amid a pause in construction of new 22m power poles following community protest.

On Wednesday, NextDC told the Australian Stock Exchange that delays to electricity provider Jemena’s upgrade of the power poles – essential to delivering the increased electricity required by the expanded West Footscray site – would mean the expansion would be pushed back to the 2027/2028 financial year.