Live coverage across multiple outlets reports that Australia’s planned expansion of AI data centres is drawing criticism from climate advocates who warn it could raise electricity prices and increase emissions. The reporting frames the issue around growing demand for power linked to large-scale computing, with concerns that higher energy costs could affect households and businesses and that additional electricity generation may worsen climate outcomes depending on the grid’s fuel mix. The coverage also notes political and industrial debate over cost-of-living policy. Unions and the government back an increase to the minimum wage, while business groups warn the rise could increase operating costs for employers. The live updates present both sides’ positions without resolving the dispute, highlighting ongoing discussions about how to manage economic pressures while balancing climate and energy considerations. Overall, the articles focus on two parallel policy debates: how to respond to rising power needs from AI infrastructure and how to set wage levels amid concerns about affordability and business impacts.