Victoria's Big Build Royal Commission Holds First Public Hearing Into Corruption Allegations
The inquiry into the state's $150bn infrastructure program says it will leave no stone unturned examining claims of criminal conduct.
The royal commission investigating Victoria's Big Build infrastructure program held its first public hearing, examining allegations of corruption and criminal conduct tied to the state's roughly $150 billion pipeline of construction projects, according to the Guardian.
The inquiry, formally known as the royal commission into the Integrity of Major Public and Civil Infrastructure Construction, has said it intends to leave no stone unturned in its investigation. The commission's early proceedings revealed that Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan was aware of allegations that the construction union had allowed individuals with criminal backgrounds, including bikie gang members, onto state infrastructure projects as early as 2023.
The hearing also disclosed that the commission had already held closed-door sessions following its launch in August, ahead of Tuesday's public hearing. The inquiry plans to continue holding public hearings during the lead-up to Victoria's November state election, ensuring the issue remains prominent in the political conversation ahead of the vote.
The Big Build program encompasses a broad range of transport and infrastructure projects across Victoria, and allegations of corruption or criminal influence within such a large public spending program carry significant political and financial stakes for the state government.
The commission's ongoing work is expected to examine the extent of any wrongdoing across the program, with further public hearings anticipated to bring additional evidence and testimony into the open in the coming months.
Sources
- Bikies, ‘moral compass malfunctions’ and corruption cost: Victoria’s Big Build royal commission holds first public hearing — The Guardian — World
EGazette summarizes reporting from multiple sources; follow the links for the originals.
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