Big Build Royal Commission Opens

What happened

The outlets' own sentences, most widely reported first. Hover or tap one to see who reported it.

Analysis

How it changed

1. 23 Sep

   Commissioner Christopher Kourakis revealed that the inquiry had already conducted several closed hearings to obtain “sensitive information” that, if disclosed early, would have “compromised the commission’s ongoing investigations” – but vowed to hold as many in public as possible.

   2 outlets · The Guardian

Coverage 5 articles

• 23 Sep Ex-Victorian premier to be grilled over $150billion Big Build as royal commission into alleged corruption on construction sites kicks offA royal commission into alleged corruption on Victorian construction sites has begun, with former premier Jacinta Allan set to give evidence. The commission investigates the integrity of over 100 projects under the $150 billion Big Build infrastructure initiative. Counsel assisting the commission cited a cabinet memo naming Ms. Allan in connection with concerns about industrial relations issues and criminal activity…Daily Mail
• 23 Sep Royal commission hints at original sin of Big BuildThe Kourakis royal commission has published confidential cabinet documents revealing that Jacinta Allan was aware of criminal activity on Victoria's Big Build projects over three years ago. The commissioner, Chris Kourakis, emphasized the importance of ethical governance in public infrastructure projects and questioned whether Labor’s $150 billion program was driven by socioeconomic needs or political interests…Sydney Morning Herald
• 23 Sep Bikies, ‘moral compass malfunctions’ and corruption cost: Victoria’s Big Build royal commission holds first public hearingThe first public hearing of Victoria’s Big Build royal commission revealed that former minister Jacinta Allan was aware of allegations involving criminals and bikies on state construction sites as early as June 2023. Two confidential briefings from the Major Transport Infrastructure Authority detailed concerning behavior, including the presence of known criminals and motorcycle club members at worksites, which Allan…The Guardian
• 23 Sep Breaking: Royal commission probing construction sector corruption in Victoria opensVictoria's new royal commission into construction sector corruption began with its first hearing in Melbourne. Premier Ben Carroll initiated the inquiry in July, promising an exhaustive investigation with broad terms of reference covering issues like corruption on infrastructure projects and oversight effectiveness. Headed by former South Australian Supreme Court chief justice Christopher Kourakis, the commission…ABC News (AU)
• 22 Sep Big Build royal commission LIVE: Opening hearing to lay foundations for probe into alleged corruption on government building sitesPremier Ben Carroll announced that former South Australian chief justice Chris Kourakis will lead a royal commission into alleged corruption within government building sites. The commission's counsel assisting includes Victorian barristers Chris Young and Christopher Carr. The royal commission has extensive powers to call politicians, public servants, union leaders, and construction firms as witnesses, potentially…Sydney Morning Herald

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