South Australia suspends contractors on $15 billion T2D project

The Torrens to Darlington (T2D) road project in Adelaide is facing increased scrutiny following the suspension and termination of contracts for two companies. The Torrens to Darlington Alliance has terminated its contract with labour hire firm Career Boss Australia and ceased using services from commercial cleaning company LYLA Pty Ltd.

The actions follow the identification of a common shareholding between the two firms. The controversy stems from allegations that an outlaw motorcycle gang member attempted to gain control of shares in Career Boss Australia through threats of violence. While the South Australia Police stated they have found no evidence of organised crime operating on public infrastructure projects, the government has taken these steps as a precaution to protect project integrity.

Premier Peter Malinauskas has requested that the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) conduct an evaluation of the procurement, contracting, and subcontracting safeguards for the project. ICAC Commissioner Emma Townsend has agreed to the review. Treasurer Tom Koutsantonis defended Transport Minister Joe Szakacs amid questions regarding the government’s vetting processes, while Szakacs acknowledged he should have informed the Premier of the allegations sooner.