Royal commission into Victorian construction sector could boost Labor’s chances at state election, expert says
Summary
Victoria’s new Premier, Ben Carroll, has announced a royal commission to investigate the construction sector, focusing on the use of taxpayer money in major infrastructure projects called the Big Build. The inquiry aims to uncover corruption and will run alongside a special prosecutor and enhanced anti-corruption agency powers.Key Facts
- Premier Ben Carroll made the royal commission into Victoria’s construction sector his first official action.
- The commission will investigate alleged corruption on Big Build projects, which involve over $109 billion in public spending since 2015.
- The Big Build includes projects such as the Metro Tunnel, level crossing removals, and the Suburban Rail Loop.
- Previous reports linked project funds to organized crime and union corruption, causing significant cost increases.
- Carroll promised the commission’s terms of reference will be thorough and cover companies, subcontractors, unions, and government officials.
- A special prosecutor will work alongside the commission, and the anti-corruption commission will get new powers to track financial irregularities.
- Carroll’s predecessor, Jacinta Allan, resisted calls for the royal commission amid allegations of crime involvement.
- Experts say the royal commission signals government action and may influence voters before the upcoming state election.
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