EdgeConneX®, a pioneer in global Build-to-Suit and Build-to-Density digital infrastructure solutions, today announced its entry into the Australian market through a 50-50 joint venture partnership with Stockland (ASX: SGP). The companies plan to develop, own, and operate a portfolio of hyperscale data center campuses across Australia, starting with Sydney and Melbourne.

The EdgeConneX Stockland Data Center partnership combines Stockland’s land, development, and project management expertise with EdgeConneX global experience delivering data center solutions for large content, cloud, and AI providers. Following the establishment of the JV partnership, EdgeConneX and Stockland are advancing an initial portfolio of hyperscale data center campuses in Sydney and Melbourne, with 450MW of power secured, and progressing additional power applications and planning.

“Our partnership with EdgeConneX brings together Stockland’s local development capabilities and EdgeConneX’s international hyperscale and AI Factory experience. Together, we are creating a strong platform to support the responsible growth of Australia’s digital economy,” said Justin Louis, Chief Investment Officer, Stockland.

To lead its Australian business and market development strategy, EdgeConneX has appointed Chris Maher as Managing Director for Australia. EdgeConneX has also joined Data Centres Australia (DCA), the nation’s leading industry body for data centers and AI infrastructure, as a principal member, working alongside DCA’s growing base of 100+ diverse members to advance the digital infrastructure opportunity in Australia.

Maher brings more than 20 years of experience across digital infrastructure, asset management, and finance in Asia Pacific and the United States. Over the past two decades, he has played a leading role in establishing and growing major digital infrastructure businesses, with extensive experience in data center development and operations, and large-scale infrastructure investment. With deep sector experience, a strong understanding of the Australian market, and a track record of leading complex infrastructure businesses, Maher is well positioned to lead EdgeConneX’s Australian business and support the company’s continued growth in the region.

“Australia has a significant opportunity to become a leading market for digital infrastructure and AI,” said Chris Maher, Managing Director, Australia, EdgeConneX. “Digital infrastructure and the technology it enables are transforming the way we live and work, from healthcare to agriculture and mining. I’m excited to join EdgeConneX at such a pivotal moment and to build, with our partners and customers, the sustainable digital foundations Australia needs.”

Belinda Dennett, Chief Executive Officer, Data Centres Australia: “We are delighted to welcome EdgeConneX as a member and contributor to the growing Australian market for hyperscale data centers. Australia has a significant opportunity to lead the region in sustainable data center development, capturing economic and strategic advantage through the current wave of global AI infrastructure investment. I would like to congratulate Chris Maher on his appointment and look forward to working with EdgeConneX and Stockland as they establish their presence.”

The appointment comes amid strong momentum in the Australian market. According to DCA’s latest Economic Impact report, with its abundant renewable energy, Australia is uniquely positioned to power the region’s AI demand sustainably, turning clean energy into a digital export. The report estimates that capturing the AI export market could add up to $4.1 billion in additional annual economic activity by 2030 and support up to 17,120 more jobs, a net addition on top of the projected economic activity and job creation from meeting domestic demand.

“Australia is one of the fastest-growing infrastructure hubs in the region,” said Kelvin Fong, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, EdgeConneX. “It offers strong fundamentals such as renewable energy for long-term sustainable infrastructure investment, and with Chris leading our local team, we look forward to supporting our customers as they grow in this market.”

EdgeConneX is a leader in sustainable data center development and operations. For three consecutive years, the company has been recognized as an industry leader in Structure Research’s annual State of the Environmental report for its strong balance of transparent ESG reporting, innovative use of closed-loop water-free cooling systems, energy efficiency, and renewable energy adoption.

About EdgeConneX

Backed by EQT Infrastructure, part of the global investment organization EQT, EdgeConneX provides a full range of sustainable infrastructure solutions worldwide. We work closely with our customers to offer choices in location, scale, and type of facility, from Build-to-Suit to Build-to-Density. EdgeConneX is a global leader in anytime, anywhere, and any scale data center services for a diverse portfolio of industries, including Cloud, AI, Content, Networks, and more. With a mission dedicated to taking care of our customers, our people, and our planet, EdgeConneX strives to Empower Your Edge.

For more information, please visit: www.edgeconnex.com

For more information on sustainability, please visit: https://www.edgeconnex.com/company/sustainability/

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