The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) have welcomed the appointment of Royal Commission and announcement of the Terms of Reference into crime and misconduct in Vitoria's construction industry.
For too long allegations about crime and corruption on Victorian building sites have threatened the integrity of taxpayer funded infrastructure projects, fundamentally undermining public trust in the sector and the state's capital program.
Last month, VCCI and ACCI came together to call for a Royal Commission in a bid to restore confidence and public trust in this vital industry along with a range of other important measures to prevent and tackle corruption.
VCCI has long called for the expansion of IBAC's powers and welcomes the government's indication it will advance legislation to deliver this.
To be attributed to Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chief Executive Sally Curtain:
“Those involved in the industry who are honest and hardworking deserve a system that protects them, not one that enables intimidation, coercion or criminal gain.”
“It is vital we get to the bottom of what’s occurred and put in place mechanisms to prevent it from happening in the future.”
“Restoring confidence in the sector requires clear rules, stronger enforcement and the political will to act. It is encouraging that Premier Ben Carroll has moved quickly to establish this Royal Commission.”
To be attributed to Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chief Executive Officer Andrew McKellar:
“Corruption has infected the Victorian construction sector to its core, and only a Royal Commission can expose its full extent and drive the systemic change required.”
“We welcome the Victorian Premier’s decision to establish this inquiry, which must be fearless and prepared to pursue wrongdoing wherever the evidence leads.”
“Victorians deserve to know that every taxpayer dollar spent on infrastructure is protected from corruption, intimidation and criminal influence.”
Media contact: Gail Watson or Rebecca Chin, [email protected], 0423 883 945