Thursday, 13 August 2026

 Ann-Marie HERMANS (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (22:39): (2700) My adjournment matter is to the Premier. I have been contacted by constituents from Edithvale who have spent years pursuing compensation after their property was damaged by the Edithvale crossing removal project. The action I seek is for the government to review how their complaint assessment process was managed, including the level of independence, and to implement measures to ensure that residents impacted by the Andrews–Allan–Carroll Labor government’s major infrastructure works are afforded fair and transparent treatment.

As if breaking the bank and letting debt spiral out of control are not enough, the Labor government’s corrupt and out-of-control infrastructure projects have caused property damage to local residents’ homes. My constituents have had cracking and structural damage to their property due to the Edithvale crossing removal project. Since then, they have done everything right to seek justice and compensation, but this government has ignored, shunned and stonewalled them. My constituents have faced repeated rejection of their claims despite multiple expert opinions showing evidence of the property damage. This leaves them deeply sceptical about the process and whether it was independent. In particular they have raised concerns with me that the investigation assessment process was not sufficiently independent, the complaint handling process lacked transparency, their property damage concerns remain unresolved and they have been left without meaningful resolution despite extensive engagement over a prolonged period.

Let me tell you, my constituents’ issue is far from unique. I can guarantee you that there are many Victorians across the state who have had their properties damaged by Labor’s ill-considered infrastructure pet projects, not to mention the harm to the local environment and to residents’ health because of the constant construction works, which I have previously raised in this chamber. Just think about the 109 level crossing removals, the doomed Suburban Rail Loop and the Metro Tunnel. How much damage has been done? My constituents in Edithvale have persevered despite multiple setbacks and lengthy delays, and I commend them for their determination. But what about the people who do not have the means nor the capacity to pursue justice in this way? We have seen that this Labor government will go to extreme ends to cover up its tracks. I shudder to think how many Victorians have had this government turn a deaf ear to their concerns, never receiving the compensation they deserve. Victorians have simply had enough of this Labor government.