Victorian Minister Questions Premier's Handling of Project Allegations

Premier Allan had earlier dismissed the report, stating it had no basis and that the government had received advice that the dispute was between the head contractor and the subcontractor, not involving the government. However, hours later, Horne posted on Facebook a letter she sent to the head of the Victorian Infrastructure Delivery Authority (VIDA), describing the allegations as "alarming." In her letter, Horne stated that neither she nor her office had contacted the CFMEU regarding the project and sought assurance that VIDA had not directed the removal of contractors except where legally permitted.

Horne also noted that the project was completed before she became Minister for Health Infrastructure and that she was not the relevant minister at the time of the alleged interference. She highlighted existing government measures to protect infrastructure projects from illegal conduct, including enhanced powers for the Labour Hire Authority and the establishment of a dedicated complaints body and police taskforce. The minister requested advice on further steps to strengthen oversight of subcontractors, emphasizing the public's expectation that health infrastructure projects be free from impropriety and corruption.

The allegations were reportedly based on claims by Stephen King, former executive director of the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA). The report also noted that leaders of the police taskforce established to tackle corruption on the state's "Big Build" infrastructure projects have expressed concerns about their limited powers to investigate certain allegations, as some alleged wrongdoing may not constitute a crime. They also cited difficulties in finding witnesses due to fears of retaliation.