Minister Questions Alleged Wrongdoing on Victorian Hospital Project

Victorian Minister Melissa Horne has publicly broken ranks with Premier Jacinta Allan by calling for an explanation regarding allegations of improper government interference on a hospital project. Horne described a report detailing these allegations as "alarming" and stated she has asked a senior official for assurances that no wrongdoing occurred.

This public statement signifies a potential fracture within the Victorian government concerning how to address corruption allegations on infrastructure projects, particularly significant as it occurs less than five months before the state election in November. The allegations specifically involve the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU).

Premier Jacinta Allan had previously stated that a report concerning these allegations was incorrect. Horne's intervention suggests a divergence in approach or assessment of the situation within the government. The health infrastructure minister's comments were made via a Facebook post, highlighting the public nature of her concern and her request for clarity on the matter.