Thursday, 4 June 2026

 Gaelle BROAD (Northern Victoria) (10:37): Allegations of corruption on government worksites under the Labor state government’s $100 billion Big Build program were reported by the media two years ago, yet the Labor state government has failed to ensure that the claims are properly investigated. Geoffrey Watson, a senior counsel commissioned by the CFMEU administrator to investigate allegations of corruption, found that in Victoria it is out of control. He estimated that $15 billion – even up to $30 billion – has been lost to corruption by the government. Investigations have found the alleged influence of bikies and criminal figures and found building sites used for drug distribution, widespread bribery, intimidation, threats and violence. Murray Furlong, general manager of the Fair Work Commission, said the $15 billion estimate is consistent with what he has heard from Victorian government officials, yet the Premier dismissed the report’s finding and has refused to hold a royal commission. The Commonwealth Senate estimates heard about 56 separate allegations of fraud, corruption, theft and criminal behaviour on Victorian government infrastructure projects. All other Australian states – seven allegations between them.

Despite numerous reported incidents of violence on Big Build sites, WorkSafe Victoria’s workplace watchdog has no active prosecutions underway. While the Premier has announced plans to broaden IBAC’s powers, the only action being taken this year is to set up a working group. Any legislative changes have been delayed until the end of 2027. The Labor government, who receive donations from unions, have done nothing to address union corruption. Only the Nationals and Liberals in government will end the waste, stop the corruption and treat taxpayer money with respect.