Microsoft to invest $3.16 billion in Australia to increase its cloud computing capacity

Microsoft today announced that it will invest $5B AUD (approx. $3.16B USD) in Australia over the next two years. The investment will be mainly focused towards increasing its cloud computing capacity by expanding its data centers from 20 sites to 29 sites. With this data center expansion, Microsoft’s cloud computing capacity in Australia will increase by over 250%. Microsoft also has plans to setup a new data-center academy in Australia to help train technicians, IT employees and others.

Microsoft also said that it will support in training 300,000 Australians in skills needed to “succeed in the digital economy”. Finally, Microsoft is expanding the cyber threat information-sharing agreement with the Australian Signals Directorate.

“This is our largest investment in Microsoft’s 40-year history in Australia and a testament to our commitment to the country’s growth and prosperity in the AI era,” said Microsoft President Brad Smith.