Government moves to shut down Infrastructure Victoria
- 4 hours ago
- 2 min read
The Victorian Government will shut down Infrastructure Victoria and Economic Growth Victoria, in a move expected to save $12 million over four years and cut up to 50 jobs.
Finance Minister Enver Erdogan said the decision was aimed at reducing duplication and improving the value of government spending.
Infrastructure Victoria was established in 2015 with bipartisan support to provide independent advice on major infrastructure projects and help set long-term priorities for the state.
Its responsibilities will now be transferred to the Department of Transport and Planning.
The agency’s chief executive, Jonathan Spear, defended its work, saying it had provided independent, evidence-based advice and helped shape infrastructure policy across Victoria.
He said 84 per cent of recommendations in Infrastructure Victoria’s 2021 30-year strategy had been accepted or implemented.
The decision comes as Premier Ben Carroll faces pressure to control costs, particularly around the multibillion-dollar Suburban Rail Loop project.
The government has rejected claims that Infrastructure Victoria is being abolished because of disagreements over its advice.
However, the Opposition and unions have criticised the move. The Coalition says it would restore Infrastructure Victoria if elected in November, arguing that independent oversight is particularly important while major infrastructure projects face rising costs and delays.
The Greens have also indicated they will oppose legislation needed to abolish the agency.
Meanwhile, the government is seeking a further $70 million in savings by reducing its use of consultants.
Public service agencies will also face tighter rules on discretionary spending, including office merchandise, tea and coffee, pot plants and commemorative plaques for politicians.
The government says the broader cost-cutting program is designed to improve Victoria’s finances, while critics warn that removing independent oversight could weaken accountability.
Stay tuned with Aus News Lanka – the leading platform for news for Australians.
Source : ABC News
Comments