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IBAC Seeks Stronger Powers as Victorian Opposition Unveils Racketeering Push on Big Build

The watchdog says current law blocks probes into subcontractors on taxpayer-funded works.

Overview

  • At a parliamentary hearing, IBAC defended not disclosing until February 16 that a mid‑2024 CFMEU referral was outside its jurisdiction, noting the premier was told in October 2024.
  • Commissioner Victoria Elliott renewed calls to broaden the definition of corrupt conduct, clarify who counts as a public officer and grant “follow‑the‑dollar” authority to track subcontractor payments.
  • The Allan government separated anti‑vilification reforms from an omnibus bill as the Greens prepared an amendment to expand IBAC’s remit, with a formal response to integrity committee recommendations due by June.
  • Opposition Leader Jess Wilson outlined plans for US‑style racketeering laws and a police‑led taskforce with federal agencies to seize assets using existing 2024 powers.
  • The Coalition will introduce three private bills to give IBAC tracking powers and ease public‑hearing thresholds, create a Construction Enforcement Authority and bar people linked to organised crime from major projects, while a disputed $15 billion loss estimate continues to frame the debate.