Google to Build Secret AI Data Centre on Remote Christmas Island

Google is preparing to construct a major artificial intelligence (AI) data centre on Australia’s remote Indian Ocean territory, Christmas Island, according to documents reviewed by Reuters and interviews with officials. The plan, previously undisclosed, appears to be part of Google’s growing involvement in cloud and defence partnerships within the Asia-Pacific region.

The small island, located roughly 350 kilometres south of Indonesia and known primarily for its natural reserves and red crab migrations, could soon become a strategic hub for digital infrastructure. The development follows Google’s recent cloud agreement with Australia’s Department of Defence, signed earlier this year.

While the precise scale, cost, and operational details of the project remain confidential, sources suggest the facility will play a critical role in supporting advanced AI systems, secure data processing, and potentially regional communications.

The project’s secrecy has drawn attention from both policymakers and analysts, who note its potential to enhance Australia’s data sovereignty and cybersecurity capabilities. It could also strengthen Australia’s position as a technological bridge between Western allies and Southeast Asia.

If completed, the Christmas Island data centre would mark one of Google’s most remote and strategically positioned facilities in the world — signalling the company’s commitment to expanding its AI and cloud presence in geopolitically significant regions.