{"id":1473,"date":"2026-03-04T01:11:15","date_gmt":"2026-03-04T01:11:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/owspakistan.com\/?p=1473"},"modified":"2026-03-04T10:17:18","modified_gmt":"2026-03-04T10:17:18","slug":"watchdog-lashes-victoria-s-big-build-agency-over-poor-records-20260303-p5o71q-htmlrefrssutm_mediumrssutm_sourcerss_feed","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/owspakistan.com\/?p=1473","title":{"rendered":"Watchdog lashes Victorian Infrastructure Delivery Authority over \u2018poor\u2019 records"},"content":{"rendered":"<div>\n<header class=\"sc-ad76bc40-0 fGWwxS\">\n<div class=\"sc-5cbbddda-0 cRMyzw\">\n<div data-testid=\"article-author\" class=\"sc-5cbbddda-1 kekTYX\">\n<div>\n<p data-testid=\"article-datetime\" class=\"sc-5cbbddda-5 jMFiFd\"><span class=\"sc-a243f860-0 dLDTDi\">Updated <time data-testid=\"storytile-timestamp\" datetime=\"2026-03-04T12:07:09+11:00\">March 4, 2026<!-- --> \u2014 12:07pm<\/time>,<\/span><span aria-hidden=\"true\" data-testid=\"wbr-separator\" class=\"sc-a243f860-1 jJVohk\"\/><span class=\"sc-a243f860-0 dLDTDi\">first published <time data-testid=\"storytile-timestamp\" datetime=\"2026-03-04T05:00:00+11:00\">March 4, 2026<!-- --> \u2014 5:00am<\/time><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sc-7132c98c-0 hMrcSL noPrint\" data-testid=\"article-actions\">\n<div class=\"sc-7132c98c-1 cbqDrw\">\n<div class=\"sc-f9e3ccff-0 cGFoDo\"><button aria-checked=\"false\" aria-label=\"Save article to read later\" role=\"switch\" type=\"button\" class=\"sc-f9e3ccff-1 bYQiGM\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" fill=\"none\" height=\"24\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" width=\"24\" class=\"sc-d1b14060-0 bRyYMS\"><path d=\"M5.75 4C5.75 3.86193 5.86193 3.75 6 3.75H18C18.1381 3.75 18.25 3.86193 18.25 4L18.25 19.7709L12.8004 16.9682C12.2981 16.7099 11.7019 16.7099 11.1996 16.9682L5.75 19.7709L5.75 4Z\"\/><\/svg><span class=\"sc-f9e3ccff-2 bBuibL\">Save<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"sc-ba6ddcd9-0 bnZsbn sc-d1b14060-3 bnLMbo\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p class=\"sc-d1b14060-4 NcyxX\">You have reached your maximum number of saved items.<\/p>\n<p>Remove items from your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.smh.com.au\/goodfood\/saved\" class=\"sc-3f16ee48-12 sc-d1b14060-2 kfUMNO cdQiAR\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">saved list<\/a> to add more.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"sc-ba6ddcd9-0 dpTpUw sc-369d9219-0 ipWbwh\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p class=\"sc-369d9219-1 eGTSJh\">Save this article for later<\/p>\n<p class=\"sc-369d9219-2 crcSSW\">Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime.<\/p>\n<p><button type=\"button\" class=\"sc-3f16ee48-0 sc-3f16ee48-6 sc-369d9219-3 dXbfCd gDnvwr gxYZHU\">Got it<\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><button aria-label=\"Set font size to normal\" aria-pressed=\"true\" class=\"sc-f7fd8257-1 fKewKr\">A<\/button><button aria-label=\"Set font size to larger\" aria-pressed=\"false\" class=\"sc-f7fd8257-1 kfmQUR\">A<\/button><button aria-label=\"Set font size to very large\" aria-pressed=\"false\" class=\"sc-f7fd8257-1 kfmPpl\">A<\/button><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<aside class=\"sc-67b869c7-6 cFwlqx\"\/>\n<div class=\"sc-c502198b-0 kvnFTY\">\n<p>A secret Victorian ombudsman briefing has warned that the Allan government\u2019s agency managing its $100 billion Big Build program is exposed to corruption because it fails to keep adequate records about how it spends taxpayer dollars.<\/p>\n<p>The revelation of the ombudsman\u2019s concerns about the Victorian Infrastructure Delivery Authority, in a briefing sent last month, adds to damning warnings about the waste and rorting of billions of the Big Build <a class=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smh.com.au\/national\/rotting-from-the-top-bribery-drugs-bikies-and-billions-of-taxpayer-dollars-20260210-p5o14o.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">separately raised by corruption buster<\/a> Geoffrey Watson, SC, Fair Work Commission <a class=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smh.com.au\/politics\/victoria\/victorians-have-a-right-to-know-fair-work-chief-backs-independent-big-build-probe-20260212-p5o1r3.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">chief Murray Furlong<\/a> and project supervisors.<\/p>\n<p>It came as Premier Jacinta Allan on Tuesday again rebuffed calls to urgently give the state\u2019s anti-corruption watchdog powers to probe the extent of misspending on the Big Build.<\/p>\n<p>The ombudsman\u2019s criticism of Victorian Infrastructure Delivery Authority (VIDA), which was created to deliver Big Build projects, is contained in a confidential agency document seen by this masthead.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sc-c502198b-0 kvnFTY\">\n<p>The document deals with the ombudsman\u2019s handling of a Big Build insider\u2019s complaint that certain VIDA executives had acted \u201cimproperly\u201d in the way they spent taxpayer funds.<\/p>\n<p>The specifics of the complaint is not being revealed by this masthead as the insider was deemed a whistleblower under Victorian laws that prevent the publication of information that could reveal their identity.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"sc-4820f69c-1 fhsnES\"><button aria-label=\"enlarge image\" type=\"button\" class=\"sc-4820f69c-5 bsFdcS\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-d34e428-0 bXqpHm\"><picture><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.126%2C$multiply_0.9841%2C$ratio_1.5%2C$width_756%2C$x_0%2C$y_0\/t_crop_custom\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/763785c505886f7e62023b09440810ef1e76132a, https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.126%2C$multiply_1.9683%2C$ratio_1.5%2C$width_756%2C$x_0%2C$y_0\/t_crop_custom\/q_62%2Cf_auto\/763785c505886f7e62023b09440810ef1e76132a 2x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 750px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.126%2C$multiply_1.0159%2C$ratio_1.5%2C$width_756%2C$x_0%2C$y_0\/t_crop_custom\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/763785c505886f7e62023b09440810ef1e76132a, https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.126%2C$multiply_2.0317%2C$ratio_1.5%2C$width_756%2C$x_0%2C$y_0\/t_crop_custom\/q_62%2Cf_auto\/763785c505886f7e62023b09440810ef1e76132a 2x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Premier Jacinta Allan again rebuffed calls to expand the corruption watchdog\u2019s powers.\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.126%2C$multiply_0.7725%2C$ratio_1.5%2C$width_756%2C$x_0%2C$y_0\/t_crop_custom\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/763785c505886f7e62023b09440810ef1e76132a\" srcset=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.126%2C$multiply_0.7725%2C$ratio_1.5%2C$width_756%2C$x_0%2C$y_0\/t_crop_custom\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/763785c505886f7e62023b09440810ef1e76132a, https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.126%2C$multiply_1.545%2C$ratio_1.5%2C$width_756%2C$x_0%2C$y_0\/t_crop_custom\/q_62%2Cf_auto\/763785c505886f7e62023b09440810ef1e76132a 2x\" class=\"sc-d34e428-1 bnWZMz\"\/><\/picture><\/div>\n<p><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 38 38\" height=\"38px\" width=\"38px\" class=\"sc-4820f69c-4 eROwEo\"><g stroke=\"#F4F5F7\" stroke-width=\"2\" fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" transform=\"matrix(1, 0, 0, 1, 22.029383, 7.619553)\"><path d=\"M1 8l6.36396103-6.36396103M8 7V1H2\"\/><\/g><g stroke=\"#F4F5F7\" stroke-width=\"2\" fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" transform=\"matrix(1, 0, 0, 1, 7.0731, 21.523087)\"><path d=\"M8 1L1.63603897 7.36396103M1 2v6h6\"\/><\/g><\/svg><\/button><figcaption data-testid=\"figure-caption\" class=\"sc-4820f69c-0 hMRMLa\"><span>Premier Jacinta Allan again rebuffed calls to expand the corruption watchdog\u2019s powers.<\/span><cite class=\"sc-4820f69c-2 jnumBu\"><span class=\"sc-4820f69c-3 jkEJCb\">Simon Schluter<\/span><\/cite><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The ombudsman briefing note, dated February 2, said that while an initial assessment by an investigator did not locate the evidence to substantiate the insider\u2019s specific concerns about certain VIDA executives, it still uncovered troubling information.<\/p>\n<p>The ombudsman investigator \u201creviewed VIDA\u2019s financial records\u201d and concluded that \u201cit was evident VIDA had not adequately recorded its procurement activities in a fair and transparent manner\u201d, the note says.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sc-c502198b-0 kvnFTY\">\n<p>The ombudsman probe also found that the authority \u201cdid not always adhere to its procurement policies and procedure\u201d and was stymied by abysmal record keeping at VIDA.<\/p>\n<aside data-testid=\"related-story\" class=\"sc-4dc7bff5-0 QbJUT\">\n<h2 data-testid=\"related-story-heading\" class=\"sc-4dc7bff5-1 fNPBEP\">Related Article<\/h2>\n<div data-an-position=\"1\" imagepositions=\"top\" data-testid=\"story-tile\" class=\"sc-679b6ed4-0 cMGLSH\">\n<figure imagesizes=\"[object Object]\" class=\"sc-8825a2fb-0 hUTlgn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.smh.com.au\/national\/rotting-from-the-top-bribery-drugs-bikies-and-billions-of-taxpayer-dollars-20260210-p5o14o.html\" tabindex=\"-1\" class=\"sc-cba76dee-0 hLTVHY\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-d34e428-0 bXqpHm\"><picture><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.5786885245901638%2C$multiply_0.2805%2C$ratio_1.777778%2C$width_1059%2C$x_0%2C$y_70\/t_crop_custom\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/b80b400a6fc619ecb800ae2fb8c722c71321fb0128401958414ed4e7bf33c93d, https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.5786885245901638%2C$multiply_0.5609%2C$ratio_1.777778%2C$width_1059%2C$x_0%2C$y_70\/t_crop_custom\/q_62%2Cf_auto\/b80b400a6fc619ecb800ae2fb8c722c71321fb0128401958414ed4e7bf33c93d 2x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 750px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.5786885245901638%2C$multiply_0.2842%2C$ratio_1.777778%2C$width_1059%2C$x_0%2C$y_70\/t_crop_custom\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/b80b400a6fc619ecb800ae2fb8c722c71321fb0128401958414ed4e7bf33c93d, https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.5786885245901638%2C$multiply_0.5685%2C$ratio_1.777778%2C$width_1059%2C$x_0%2C$y_70\/t_crop_custom\/q_62%2Cf_auto\/b80b400a6fc619ecb800ae2fb8c722c71321fb0128401958414ed4e7bf33c93d 2x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Geoffrey Watson\u2019s report contains a litany of devastating claims about the CFMEU\u2019s conduct.\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.5786885245901638%2C$multiply_0.5127%2C$ratio_1.777778%2C$width_1059%2C$x_0%2C$y_70\/t_crop_custom\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/b80b400a6fc619ecb800ae2fb8c722c71321fb0128401958414ed4e7bf33c93d\" srcset=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.5786885245901638%2C$multiply_0.5127%2C$ratio_1.777778%2C$width_1059%2C$x_0%2C$y_70\/t_crop_custom\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/b80b400a6fc619ecb800ae2fb8c722c71321fb0128401958414ed4e7bf33c93d, https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.5786885245901638%2C$multiply_1.0255%2C$ratio_1.777778%2C$width_1059%2C$x_0%2C$y_70\/t_crop_custom\/q_62%2Cf_auto\/b80b400a6fc619ecb800ae2fb8c722c71321fb0128401958414ed4e7bf33c93d 2x\" class=\"sc-d34e428-1 jiJqza\"\/><\/picture><\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cMany documents had gaps which created challenges and hindered our ability to fully interrogate the records,\u201d the ombudsman\u2019s note states.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cVIDA\u2019s poor financial record keeping and reporting increases corruption risks, and there is a need to strengthen its governance and reporting mechanisms to allow for effective oversight and accountability.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The ombudsman said that while it would not launch an investigation into any VIDA executives named in the original insider\u2019s complaint, it would refer its concerns to the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) as well as the Victorian Auditor-General\u2019s Office (VAGO).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sc-c502198b-0 kvnFTY\">\n<p>The ombudsman also said it was \u201caware that VIDA has now taken steps to improve its financial governance and record keeping as a result of our involvement\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cAs a result, we have confidence that the concerns you have raised will be addressed by VIDA, IBAC or VAGO,\u201d the ombudsman said.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"sc-4820f69c-1 fhsnES\"><button aria-label=\"enlarge image\" type=\"button\" class=\"sc-4820f69c-5 bsFdcS\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-d34e428-0 bXqpHm\"><picture><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.142%2C$multiply_0.9841%2C$ratio_1.5%2C$width_756%2C$x_6%2C$y_0\/t_crop_custom\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/ab375b7ce5b99180dee384bd06b58be3aa8423e9, https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.142%2C$multiply_1.9683%2C$ratio_1.5%2C$width_756%2C$x_6%2C$y_0\/t_crop_custom\/q_62%2Cf_auto\/ab375b7ce5b99180dee384bd06b58be3aa8423e9 2x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 750px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.142%2C$multiply_1.0159%2C$ratio_1.5%2C$width_756%2C$x_6%2C$y_0\/t_crop_custom\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/ab375b7ce5b99180dee384bd06b58be3aa8423e9, https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.142%2C$multiply_2.0317%2C$ratio_1.5%2C$width_756%2C$x_6%2C$y_0\/t_crop_custom\/q_62%2Cf_auto\/ab375b7ce5b99180dee384bd06b58be3aa8423e9 2x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"IBAC chief Victoria Elliott.\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.142%2C$multiply_0.7725%2C$ratio_1.5%2C$width_756%2C$x_6%2C$y_0\/t_crop_custom\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/ab375b7ce5b99180dee384bd06b58be3aa8423e9\" srcset=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.142%2C$multiply_0.7725%2C$ratio_1.5%2C$width_756%2C$x_6%2C$y_0\/t_crop_custom\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/ab375b7ce5b99180dee384bd06b58be3aa8423e9, https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.142%2C$multiply_1.545%2C$ratio_1.5%2C$width_756%2C$x_6%2C$y_0\/t_crop_custom\/q_62%2Cf_auto\/ab375b7ce5b99180dee384bd06b58be3aa8423e9 2x\" class=\"sc-d34e428-1 bnWZMz\"\/><\/picture><\/div>\n<p><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 38 38\" height=\"38px\" width=\"38px\" class=\"sc-4820f69c-4 eROwEo\"><g stroke=\"#F4F5F7\" stroke-width=\"2\" fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" transform=\"matrix(1, 0, 0, 1, 22.029383, 7.619553)\"><path d=\"M1 8l6.36396103-6.36396103M8 7V1H2\"\/><\/g><g stroke=\"#F4F5F7\" stroke-width=\"2\" fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" transform=\"matrix(1, 0, 0, 1, 7.0731, 21.523087)\"><path d=\"M8 1L1.63603897 7.36396103M1 2v6h6\"\/><\/g><\/svg><\/button><figcaption data-testid=\"figure-caption\" class=\"sc-4820f69c-0 hMRMLa\"><span>IBAC chief Victoria Elliott.<\/span><cite class=\"sc-4820f69c-2 jnumBu\"><span class=\"sc-4820f69c-3 jkEJCb\">Simon Schluter<\/span><\/cite><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The briefing note was written weeks before <a class=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smh.com.au\/politics\/victoria\/give-corruption-watchdog-teeth-to-follow-the-money-government-told-20251204-p5nkt6.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IBAC went public with its concerns<\/a> that it lacked the power to \u201cfollow the money\u201d to test if the Big Build taxpayer funds had been corrupted.<\/p>\n<p>Under current rules, IBAC cannot pursue taxpayer funds through to subcontractors and labour-hire providers. Commissioner Victoria Elliott has asked the government for these powers, and they were also recommended by parliament\u2019s integrity and oversight committee.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sc-c502198b-0 kvnFTY\">\n<p>Elliott told a parliamentary inquiry that it would help IBAC probe the Big Build alongside changes that would stop their investigations being limited to those with a link to a public officer.<\/p>\n<aside data-testid=\"related-story\" class=\"sc-4dc7bff5-0 QbJUT\">\n<h2 data-testid=\"related-story-heading\" class=\"sc-4dc7bff5-1 fNPBEP\">Editor&#8217;s pick<\/h2>\n<div data-an-position=\"1\" imagepositions=\"top\" data-testid=\"story-tile\" class=\"sc-679b6ed4-0 cMGLSH\">\n<figure imagesizes=\"[object Object]\" class=\"sc-8825a2fb-0 hUTlgn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.smh.com.au\/national\/big-build-s-dirty-money-how-gangland-bikie-linked-firms-funded-labor-20260216-p5o2k4.html\" tabindex=\"-1\" class=\"sc-cba76dee-0 hLTVHY\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-d34e428-0 bXqpHm\"><picture><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.5787%2C$multiply_0.2805%2C$ratio_1.777778%2C$width_1059%2C$x_0%2C$y_82\/t_crop_custom\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/8519399cd8c38bafeafd106227dbf4d2ec4eefba851420cca6769247c1547b16, https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.5787%2C$multiply_0.5609%2C$ratio_1.777778%2C$width_1059%2C$x_0%2C$y_82\/t_crop_custom\/q_62%2Cf_auto\/8519399cd8c38bafeafd106227dbf4d2ec4eefba851420cca6769247c1547b16 2x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 750px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.5787%2C$multiply_0.2842%2C$ratio_1.777778%2C$width_1059%2C$x_0%2C$y_82\/t_crop_custom\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/8519399cd8c38bafeafd106227dbf4d2ec4eefba851420cca6769247c1547b16, https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.5787%2C$multiply_0.5685%2C$ratio_1.777778%2C$width_1059%2C$x_0%2C$y_82\/t_crop_custom\/q_62%2Cf_auto\/8519399cd8c38bafeafd106227dbf4d2ec4eefba851420cca6769247c1547b16 2x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Records show firms with suspect links donated thousands of dollars to Labor\u2019s 2022 election campaign.\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.5787%2C$multiply_0.5127%2C$ratio_1.777778%2C$width_1059%2C$x_0%2C$y_82\/t_crop_custom\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/8519399cd8c38bafeafd106227dbf4d2ec4eefba851420cca6769247c1547b16\" srcset=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.5787%2C$multiply_0.5127%2C$ratio_1.777778%2C$width_1059%2C$x_0%2C$y_82\/t_crop_custom\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/8519399cd8c38bafeafd106227dbf4d2ec4eefba851420cca6769247c1547b16, https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/$zoom_0.5787%2C$multiply_1.0255%2C$ratio_1.777778%2C$width_1059%2C$x_0%2C$y_82\/t_crop_custom\/q_62%2Cf_auto\/8519399cd8c38bafeafd106227dbf4d2ec4eefba851420cca6769247c1547b16 2x\" class=\"sc-d34e428-1 jiJqza\"\/><\/picture><\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>The opposition, Greens and some crossbenchers supported a push to legislate follow-the-money powers immediately this week by attaching an amendment to a larger omnibus bill, which included anti-vilification changes and tougher penalties on bestiality.<\/p>\n<p>Rather than lose the vote, the Allan government has decided to introduce the anti-vilification laws in a separate bill that will leave the omnibus bill lingering in parliament.<\/p>\n<p>Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny and Allan have said they will still consider the integrity committee\u2019s response, which they must respond to by June.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sc-c502198b-0 kvnFTY\">\n<p>On Tuesday, Kilkenny would not say whether the government would adopt the recommendation.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThose matters will be reviewed by government, and the government will respond in due course,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<p><iframe frameborder=\"0\" height=\"180\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/omny.fm\/shows\/please-explain-1\/the-cfmeu-crime-gang-a-honeypot-of-money-and-a-government-that-looked-the-other-way\/embed?background=f4f5f7&amp;description=1&amp;download=1&amp;foreground=0a1633&amp;highlight=096dd2&amp;image=1&amp;share=1&amp;style=artwork&amp;subscribe=1\" title=\"podcast\" class=\"sc-a37c8537-0 sc-738da7c6-0 hzBywp BYbVv\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p>Kilkenny said \u201caction is happening right now\u201d to tackle construction industry issues through the police and the cancellation of more than 140 labour hire licences.<\/p>\n<p>Allan said she wouldn\u2019t speculate on any future decisions the government might make.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sc-c502198b-0 kvnFTY\">\n<p>The Coalition introduced its own private member\u2019s bill on Tuesday that would give IBAC follow-the-dollar powers. However, the government does not support private member\u2019s bills and has a commanding majority in the lower house.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cVictorians deserve a government that wants to stamp out crime, has a plan to clean up the corruption, and fix the problems is our state,\u201d shadow attorney-general James Newbury said.<\/p>\n<p>The Victorian Greens have also pledged to introduce their own integrity legislation in response to the government\u2019s decision to push back debate.<\/p>\n<p>Greens leader Ellen Sandell said Labor was relying on tricks and tactics to avoid giving IBAC the powers its needs.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThis is a cop-out from Labor, and the reality is that there is no excuse for not strengthening IBAC except that Labor doesn\u2019t want to,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sc-c502198b-0 kvnFTY\">\n<p>A damning report by integrity expert Geoffrey Watson released last month, commissioned by the administrator of the CFMEU, detailed a litany of misconduct on taxpayer-funded projects including allegations of drug distribution, graft and sexual exploitation.<\/p>\n<p>His initial version of the report estimated that CFMEU-related corruption might have cost $15 billion across $100 billion of Big Build work.<\/p>\n<p>These comments were removed by administrator Mark Irving in a copy of the report produced to a public inquiry in Queensland before being released publicly. He said he deleted the estimate as it was, in his opinion, untested.<\/p>\n<p>Allan has seized on this fact to dispute the figure, even after the Fair Work Commission\u2019s Furlong told Senate estimates he had heard a similar number from Victorian government officials.<\/p>\n<p><b><i>The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the day\u2019s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. <\/i><\/b><a class=\"inline-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.theage.com.au\/newsletter-signup?newsletter=am&amp;utm_source=EditorialArticle&amp;utm_medium=ArticleText&amp;utm_campaign=Newsletters\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"><b><i>Sign up here<\/i><\/b><\/a><b><i>.<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-testid=\"article-footer\" class=\"sc-780f6c39-0 gMidPz\">\n<div class=\"sc-780f6c39-1 bXzMFW noPrint\">\n<div class=\"sc-780f6c39-2 fDvLNJ\">\n<div class=\"sc-f9e3ccff-0 cGFoDo sc-780f6c39-3 csnzsK\"><button aria-checked=\"false\" aria-label=\"Save article to read later\" role=\"switch\" type=\"button\" class=\"sc-f9e3ccff-1 bYQiGM\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" fill=\"none\" height=\"24\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"1.5\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" width=\"24\" class=\"sc-d1b14060-0 bRyYMS\"><path d=\"M5.75 4C5.75 3.86193 5.86193 3.75 6 3.75H18C18.1381 3.75 18.25 3.86193 18.25 4L18.25 19.7709L12.8004 16.9682C12.2981 16.7099 11.7019 16.7099 11.1996 16.9682L5.75 19.7709L5.75 4Z\"\/><\/svg><span class=\"sc-f9e3ccff-2 bBuibL\">Save<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"sc-ba6ddcd9-0 BgjOX sc-d1b14060-3 bnLMbo\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p class=\"sc-d1b14060-4 NcyxX\">You have reached your maximum number of saved items.<\/p>\n<p>Remove items from your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.smh.com.au\/goodfood\/saved\" class=\"sc-3f16ee48-12 sc-d1b14060-2 kfUMNO cdQiAR\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">saved list<\/a> to add more.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sc-b5b9fd03-0 ckGUXQ\">\n<div class=\"sc-b5b9fd03-1 iROwGF\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Nick McKenzie\" data-testid=\"author-avatar-image\" height=\"40\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/w_40%2Ch_40%2Cc_fill%2Cg_auto:faces\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/2607dc7d0bce6837f07d379a9a5b2856ce871e1e\" srcset=\"https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/w_40%2Ch_40%2Cc_fill%2Cg_auto:faces\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/2607dc7d0bce6837f07d379a9a5b2856ce871e1e, https:\/\/static.ffx.io\/images\/w_80%2Ch_80%2Cc_fill%2Cg_auto:faces\/q_86%2Cf_auto\/2607dc7d0bce6837f07d379a9a5b2856ce871e1e 2x\" width=\"40\" class=\"sc-9a01536c-0 cJPmxL\"\/><span data-testid=\"author-bio\" class=\"sc-b5b9fd03-3 iaHQXJ\"><span><a class=\"sc-cba76dee-0 hLTVHY sc-b5b9fd03-2 bOdPsp\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smh.com.au\/by\/nick-mckenzie-hve6q\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Nick McKenzie<\/a> is an Age investigative journalist who has three times been named the Graham Perkin Australian Journalist of the Year. A winner of 20 Walkley Awards, including the Gold Walkley, he investigates politics, business, foreign affairs and criminal justice.<\/span><span class=\"sc-b5b9fd03-4 jVqFia\">Connect via <a class=\"sc-cba76dee-0 hLTVHY sc-b5b9fd03-5 cqyqDm\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smh.com.au\/national\/mailto:nickmckenzie@protonmail.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">email<\/a>.<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"sc-3dbe4134-0 eKUqbd sc-df8e6ee0-0 noPrint\" data-an-name=\"From our partners\" data-an-cu-group=\"everything\" data-an-cu-name=\"From our partners\" data-an-cu-position=\"4\" data-testid=\"from-our-partners-strap\">\n<header class=\"sc-84567ec1-0 ea-dUAB\">\n<h2 data-pb-type=\"hi\" class=\"sc-84567ec1-1 qhIfr\"><span>From our partners<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/header>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Updated March 4, 2026 \u2014 12:07pm,first published March 4, 2026 \u2014 5:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it AAA A secret Victorian ombudsman<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1474,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[113],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1473","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-national"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/owspakistan.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1473","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/owspakistan.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/owspakistan.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/owspakistan.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/owspakistan.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1473"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/owspakistan.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1473\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/owspakistan.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1474"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/owspakistan.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1473"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/owspakistan.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1473"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/owspakistan.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1473"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}