On August 12, 2025, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) reported that Australia is expected to invest about A$120 million in two new data centres in Vanuatu as part of the broader A$500 million Nakamal Agreement. The deal, later formally signed, also covers security, climate, and infrastructure support. The planned data centres in Port Vila and Santo Island are intended to enhance secure communications, strengthen data storage, and improve disaster recovery — promoting digital sovereignty and economic growth while reducing reliance on foreign technology.

Why a Data Centre?

Vanuatu’s existing digital infrastructure is modest, with only small government-run facilities for meteorology and basic services. The new centres are designed to:

• Enhance secure digital communications for government and public services.
• Store and process critical data safely within the country.
• Support disaster recovery and redundancy in a region prone to climate events.
• Reduce reliance on foreign, particularly Chinese-funded, technology projects.

What Will They Be Used For?

These centres will handle:

• Government records and official communications.
• Financial, banking, and public service systems.
• Backup and recovery solutions for natural disasters or cyber incidents.
• Potential support for private sector services and internet infrastructure.

Where and When?

• Port Vila (Efate Island) – main data hub close to government offices.
• Santo Island – secondary site to ensure continuity and redundancy.
• Announced in August 2025, with planning and funding already underway. Construction timelines are expected to unfold over the next few years.

Who Is Involved?

• Government of Vanuatu – host and oversight authority.
• Australian government – funder and strategic partner.
• Likely partnerships with construction and IT infrastructure specialists, though companies have not been publicly named.

Is It Safe?

Yes. The centres are being built with physical security, redundancy, and cyber-protection in mind. They will be monitored and managed to ensure the safety of sensitive government and citizen data. Long-term security will depend on proper governance, trained personnel, and maintenance.

The Bigger Picture

For Vanuatu, this isn’t just a tech project—it’s a step toward digital sovereignty, disaster resilience, and economic growth. For Australia, it represents a strategic effort to secure trusted digital infrastructure in the Pacific. Together, these centres are a bridge to a more connected and secure future for the islands.