Victorian premier launches royal commission into construction sector ahead of election

Premier Ben Carroll, newly sworn in, declared that establishing a royal commission into Victoria's construction industry will be his inaugural action, targeting the use of public funds on the Big Build projects. He also pledged a special prosecutor and expanded powers for the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission, with hearings potentially scheduled before the November state election. The decision follows sustained pressure on former premier Jacinta Allan, who had resisted similar inquiries despite claims of organised-crime and union infiltration of major infrastructure works.

Integrity expert William Partlett said the commission’s exhaustive terms should cover top-tier firms, subcontractors, unions and government officials, and must be broad enough to avoid demonising unions. A report by Centre for Public Integrity director Geoffrey Watson highlighted how the massive flow of money created opportunities for corruption, including alleged collusion between the CFMEU and outlaw motorcycle gangs. Partlett argued that launching the inquiry now lets Labor set the agenda and could boost its standing with voters, provided the process remains transparent and balanced.