Victoria Rocked: New Premier Launches Royal Commission into 'Big Build' Corruption

Victoria is reeling from a massive political shake-up, as newly appointed Premier Ben Carroll wasted no time announcing a sweeping Royal Commission into the state's controversial 'Big Build' infrastructure program. This comes just days after his predecessor, Jacinta Allan, resigned on July 28, 2026, amidst intense pressure over alleged corruption, organised crime infiltration, and billions in taxpayer losses tied to these projects. Carroll's swift action signals a dramatic shift in how the government will tackle the scandal that has plagued the state for years. The allegations, primarily involving the powerful Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU), claim organised crime and outlaw motorcycle gangs penetrated major government building projects through tactics like extortion, fixed procurement deals, and 'ghost shifts' — leading to an estimated $15 billion in wasted taxpayer money. Former Premier Allan had previously resisted calls for a Royal Commission, instead referring matters to the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC), which controversially lacked the 'follow the money' powers to fully investigate private subcontracts. This perceived inaction, coupled with a surging state debt projected to hit $235 billion by mid-2029, ultimately contributed to her downfall. With Ben Carroll at the helm, the focus now turns to the comprehensive scope and findings of the Royal Commission, which he has pledged will 'leave no stone unturned' in probing contractors, unions, and government officials. While police have already laid numerous criminal charges and the Labour Hire Authority has cancelled over a hundred licences, the Royal Commission is expected to publicly expose the full extent of the systemic corruption and hold powerful figures accountable. The inquiry's outcomes will not only shape Victoria's political landscape but also dictate the future of its ambitious infrastructure agenda and its battle against mounting state debt.