The Allan Labor Government is deliberately withholding critical powers from Victoria’s anti-corruption watchdog, IBAC, preventing proper investigation into alleged corruption costing taxpayers an estimated $15 billion on Big Build projects.
The Nationals’ Member for Mildura and Integrity and Oversight Committee member, Jade Benham, has slammed the Allan Government for refusing to equip the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) with the tools it needs to probe systemic corruption on Victoria’s major infrastructure projects.
Testimony before the parliamentary Integrity and Oversight Committee, IBAC Commissioner Victoria Elliott confirmed the agency is still denied key reforms—including “follow the dollar” powers to scrutinise how public funds are spent by third parties, contractors, and on taxpayer-funded sites. IBAC’s current remit is limited to individual public officers, not departments, agencies, or private entities involved in Big Build contracts.
“If IBAC lacks the powers it requires, it is because this government refuses to grant them,” Ms Benham said.
“They are actively dismantling or shelving legislation that could deliver these essential changes. Why block the very watchdog meant to protect Victorians’ money?
”At a time when credible estimates point to at least $15 billion lost to corruption on Big Build projects—money that could have funded hospitals, schools, and roads—the Allan Government continues to obstruct IBAC’s reach.
“Why would any government hinder its own anti-corruption body from tracing where taxpayer dollars have gone?” Ms Benham asked. “What are they protecting, and who are they shielding?
”A Liberal and Nationals Government will immediately legislate to empower IBAC with explicit “follow the money” powers, enabling full scrutiny of public expenditure, third-party contractors, and Big Build sites.
“It is important that these allegations are investigated, criminals face justice and Victorians’ money returned.
“You cannot claim to value integrity while keeping the watchdog leashed,” Ms Benham concluded. “Victorians deserve transparency and accountability—not excuses and cover-ups.”
