Data and artificial intelligence (AI) firm Databricks has unveiled plans to invest $300 million (about AUD$420 million) in Australia and New Zealand over the next three years. The move shows growing demand for AI and data tools in the region. It also reflects the company’s push to expand its presence and services into new global regions.
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Notably, Databricks has said that the funding will go toward building new infrastructure, hiring talent, and pushing businesses to adopt more AI tools.
Databricks Expands ANZ Presence with New Sydney Hub
The $300 million funding was revealed at Databricks’ AI Days Sydney, a global event for AI and data professionals. The company said the money will go toward a new regional HQ, training programs, and meeting growing demand for its tools. The timing also comes as Databricks continues to gain traction in Australia and New Zealand.
Notably, Databricks reported more than 85% year-on-year growth across ANZ in the first quarter alone, showing how quickly adoption is picking up. Adam Beavis, Databricks’ Vice President and Country Manager for ANZ, pointed to a clear shift in how firms in the regions are using AI.
According to him, businesses are moving beyond early testing and are now using AI in real operations. This change is becoming clearer as firms use AI to improve customer experience and make internal work faster and easier.
As part of the funding plan, Databricks will open a new 22,000-square-foot headquarters in Sydney, solidifying its presence in the region. The office, located at 400 George Street, will be opened later this year and will have exclusive training spaces for staff.
Databricks Invests in Talent and Tools to Meet AI Demand
Beyond physical expansion, a large part of the funding is focused on growing talent. Databricks plans to train 100,000 people across ANZ in advanced data and AI skills.
The company also said the funding will help meet rising demand for its key products, such as Lakebase, Genie, and Agent Bricks, which are now available in the region. While Lakebase is a serverless database for AI agents, Genie allows staff to use simple language to work with company data. Moreover, Agent Bricks helps build and manage AI agents with enterprise data.
On the customer side, Databricks is expanding across industries like finance, energy, and the public sector. Companies such as Atlassian (TEAM), National Australia Bank (NAB), Telstra (TLS), and the City of Melbourne are already working with the data and AI company.
With this level of commitment, Databricks is making it clear that Australia and New Zealand are not just growth markets but a key part of its long-term strategy.
Is Databricks Going to IPO?
Databricks remains a privately held company and is not yet listed on any public stock exchange. The AI and data analytics firm has also not revealed a timeline for an initial public offering (IPO), even as rumors of an upcoming debut spread. In the meantime, investors looking for more details on Databricks and similar pre-IPO AI firms can explore them on the TipRanks Private Company Center.
