Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan says recent claims about the state’s “Big Build” infrastructure program should be understood as the result of inflationary pressures rather than corruption or improper union activity. In interviews and a combative exchange with journalists, Allan rejects calls for a royal commission into alleged corruption across the $100 billion program. She also disputes assertions that the wage costs on Big Build projects are excessive and that unjustified demands from the CFMEU have driven up costs to taxpayers.
The pushback comes amid fresh reporting. The Guardian notes an investigation by Nine newspapers and 60 Minutes that alleges money connected to Big Build projects was paid to alleged gangland figures, and that the state government was warned about potential cost blowouts linked to CFMEU demands. Across multiple outlets, Allan maintains that “inflationary pressures on projects is not corruption,” framing the cost increases as economic conditions affecting construction rather than misconduct.
All reports center on Allan’s response to mounting political and media scrutiny over Big Build costs and allegations, including the renewed debate over whether an independent inquiry is warranted.
