Victorian Infrastructure Delivery Authority criticized by royal commission

The Victorian Infrastructure Delivery Authority (VIDA) has been criticized by a royal commission for obstructing investigations into the state’s construction industry. Commissioner Chris Kourakis, AC, and senior counsel Chris Young, KC, stated that the authority delayed the release of crucial documents and provided heavily redacted materials without explanation.

Withheld documents include text messages and meeting notes referencing the former office of Premier Daniel Andrews and a meeting attended by current Premier Jacinta Allan. These materials relate to a union standoff on a major construction project. The commission is now seeking evidence from former advisor Matt Toner and Matt Phelan, chief of staff to the former Director-General of the Major Transport Infrastructure Authority.

Unredacted handwritten notes from former Rail Projects Victoria CEO Evan Tattersall revealed concerns regarding project delays at the Gap Road level crossing removal site. Additionally, the notes contained previously redacted information regarding concerns that the CFMEU was impacting companies involved in Aboriginal employment.