The member for Bundoora raised the implementation of processes that ensure the highest standards of probity and rigour in future infrastructure project contracts. Under the former government, the moral and commercial integrity of infrastructure procurement went into freefall. This decline culminated in the despicable side letter signed by the member for Malvern.

The Andrews Labor government will improve the state’s standard of behaviour in dealing with these matters. Companies seeking to work in Victoria must understand that the financial interests of taxpayers will always be our primary concern. Ensuring that proper procurement processes are followed and procurement is conducted in a fair and collaborative manner is critical to achieving value for money for taxpayers. As part of the establishment of Projects Victoria and Infrastructure Victoria the Andrews Labor government will review the process by which preferred bidders are selected to make sure it is robust. Victorians must have confidence in the process, and that is what this government will do to ensure confidence. We will consider the past performance of companies as part of future evaluation processes. We are improving the standards of transparency and integrity that we apply to ourselves, and we will seek to partner with companies that have a record of equitable and honest dealings and that overall are good corporate citizens.

Victoria has a long history of working collaboratively with the private sector to deliver key infrastructure projects, and we will continue to do so.