Victoria has ushered in a new political era with Ben Carroll officially taking the reins as Premier. In a significant move on his first day in office, Mr. Carroll announced a wide-ranging royal commission into the state's beleaguered construction sector, signaling an immediate focus on transparency and accountability within the industry.

A Deep Dive into Construction Corruption

The newly unveiled royal commission is expected to delve into allegations of crime, corruption, violence, and extortion that have long plagued Victoria's construction industry. The inquiry’s announcement has been met with strong support from anti-corruption advocates, including former IBAC Commissioner Robert Redlich, who described it as a "historic public scandal unprecedented which demands something like a royal commission."

Mr. Redlich emphasized the crucial role of the commission, stating, "No other institution can provide the scope of investigation… that’s needed to expose what went on with the Big Build." He further asserted that both former Premiers Jacinta Allan and Daniel Andrews, having played "pivotal parts" in the period under review, should be called upon to give evidence. "If the royal commission is going to look at where the problems started, why they started, that’s the place at which the royal commission must commence," Redlich added, highlighting concerns that past decisions may have prioritised party interests over public good.

Echoing this sentiment, prominent anti-corruption barrister Geoffrey Watson SC, who authored a scathing report on the Victorian branch of the CFMEU, expressed his relief at the inquiry's establishment. Appearing before a federal Senate select committee, Mr. Watson shared insights from his previous investigations, revealing that he offered "plenty of witness protection" to ensure the safety of those willing to come forward. He recounted instances of severe corruption that could not be published due to the grave danger witnesses would face. Mr. Watson also raised concerns that recently introduced legislation, which allows the government to favour businesses with union EBAs in contracts, could inadvertently foster further corrupt practices. Police Minister Anthony Carbines has also publicly backed the new Premier's call for the royal commission.

Navigating a Shifting Political Landscape

Mr. Carroll's ascent to the premiership follows the departure of his predecessor, Jacinta Allan, and comes at a critical juncture for the Victorian Labor Party. Analysts suggest Ms. Allan's leadership struggled to differentiate itself sufficiently from that of her predecessor, Daniel Andrews. Veteran political commentator Jon Faine noted, "She never differentiated herself from Dan Andrews," while suggesting Mr. Carroll is a "totally different creature" who won't repeat the same mistake. Indeed, Mr. Carroll himself stated yesterday: "Let me make one thing very clear: I am not Daniel Andrews, I am not Jacinta Allan."

Former federal Labor leader Bill Shorten offered a stark assessment of the party's position under Ms. Allan, warning of "extinction level results worse than 1992 when Jeff Kennett wiped out Labor." Shorten expressed optimism that Mr. Carroll could provide a much-needed "bump" to the party's electoral prospects, potentially moving them from the "low 20s to at least the mid–30s" in polling.

However, the new Premier's initial moves have not escaped criticism. Opposition leader Jess Wilson swiftly dismissed the royal commission as a "sham." Questioning Mr. Carroll's timing, Ms. Wilson remarked, "Ben Carroll sat around with Jacinta Allan as her 2IC and endorsed every decision Jacinta Allan made. It's only when the polling gets bad that Ben Carroll found the courage to put up his hand."

Moira Deeming's Liberal Party Exit

Separately, in state parliament today, controversial MP Moira Deeming remained tight-lipped following her resignation from the Victorian Liberal party. Ms. Deeming, who was facing the revocation of her candidacy for the upcoming election, had previously alleged an assault by party colleague Matthew Guy at a community event in May, an allegation police later dismissed. When questioned by reporters about her departure from the party, the first-term MP declined to comment.