In short:
Victoria’s Construction Royal Commission has opened, investigating alleged corruption and criminal conduct across major infrastructure projects. The inquiry will examine the CFMEU, construction companies and government agencies.
Alleged Corruption Will Be Scrutinised
Victoria’s Royal Commission into alleged corruption and criminal conduct in the construction industry has formally opened, beginning a major examination of the state’s multibillion-dollar infrastructure program.
The Commission held its opening hearing in Melbourne on 23 September, led by former South Australian Chief Justice Christopher Kourakis.
It will investigate alleged corruption, criminal conduct and serious misconduct across major public construction projects.
A Royal Commission is the highest form of public inquiry in Australia, with broad powers to compel witnesses to give evidence and require documents to be produced.
It can make findings and recommendations, but does not itself prosecute criminal offences.
The inquiry extends beyond the CFMEU to contractors, subcontractors, labour hire companies, government departments and project delivery agencies, examining allegations including intimidation, violence, bribery and the misuse or waste of taxpayer money.
(Ben Carroll rolled Jacinta Allan for the top job in July.)
Change Of Course Under Carroll
Documents tendered at the opening hearing include a 2023 briefing provided to then-infrastructure minister Jacinta Allan detailing reports of criminal elements on major government projects.
The scandal became an increasingly significant political issue for Allan’s government before Ben Carroll replaced her as Premier in July.
Carroll immediately changed course, announcing the Royal Commission after the previous government resisted calls for one.
The inquiry comes amid allegations corruption and misconduct may have cost taxpayers as much as $15 billion, based on an estimate linked to senior counsel Geoffrey Watson’s investigation.
The figure remains disputed and has not been established as an actual loss.
Political opponents continue to criticise Labor’s handling of the issue and question whether the Commission will receive unrestricted access to government material. Carroll maintains the independent inquiry will determine where its investigation leads.
The Commission is due to report by 20 August 2027.
