Royal commission into Victorian construction sector could boost Labor’s chances at state election, expert says

Victorian Premier Ben Carroll has announced a royal commission into alleged corruption in the construction sector, including Big Build projects, as his first major action in office. An integrity expert said the move could help Labor by signaling to voters that the government is taking the scandal seriously ahead of the November state election. The inquiry is expected to examine alleged links involving unions, subcontractors, businesses, organised crime and public money across the state’s $109bn infrastructure program. Carroll also plans to appoint a special prosecutor and strengthen the anti-corruption watchdog with follow-the-money powers. The article argues the commission may expose damaging evidence but could ultimately improve Labor’s credibility if handled transparently and broadly enough.