Ben Carroll has been sworn in as Victorian premier and wasted no time signalling a change of direction, announcing a royal commission into alleged corruption in the construction sector as his first act in the role.
The Guardian Australia reports Carroll was unanimously endorsed by Labor caucus to lead the state, with transport infrastructure minister Gabrielle Williams stepping up as deputy. His predecessor Jacinta Allan announced her resignation this morning after declaring yesterday she’d contest the leadership ballot.
Carroll framed his elevation as a clean break, telling reporters: “I’m not Daniel Andrews, I’m not Jacinta Allan” and that “change starts today.” The royal commission announcement is the sharpest signal that the new premier wants distance from his predecessors on industry governance.
For tradies and contractors working on Victorian government projects, a royal commission means scrutiny of procurement, subcontracting arrangements, and industry conduct could be coming. Royal commissions carry broad investigative powers, including compulsory hearings and document production. Anyone operating in construction supply chains in Victoria should watch the commission’s terms of reference closely once they’re released.
The timing is pointed. With a state election four months away, the Carroll government is betting that action on construction-sector integrity resonates with voters and the industry alike. The full scope of the commission, including which parts of the sector it will examine, hasn’t been detailed yet.
Frequently asked questions
What can a royal commission in Victoria actually do?
Royal commissions carry broad investigative powers, including compulsory hearings and document production. Anyone in Victorian construction supply chains could be required to appear or hand over records once the terms of reference are released.
What parts of the construction sector will the commission investigate?
The full scope hasn’t been detailed yet. The terms of reference, which will define exactly which parts of the sector are examined, hadn’t been released at the time of publication.
Sourced from Guardian Australia. Original article.
