Today marks one year until the 2026 Commonwealth Games kick off in Glasgow.
But instead of preparing to showcase Bendigo and central Victoria on the world stage, Victorians are paying the price for the Labor Government’s incompetence, The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad said today.
Ms Broad said the then Minister for Commonwealth Games Delivery and now Premier, Jacinta Allan, cancelled the Games in 2023 claiming budget blowouts were to blame.
“This is costing Victorians at least $589 million, including $200 million for Glasgow to host the Games instead of us,” Ms Broad said.
“This money should have delivered jobs, sporting facilities and legacy housing in Victoria. Instead, Victorians are left with higher debt, broken infrastructure promises, and lost opportunities in tourism, hospitality, and retail.
“The jobs and investments which should have been delivered in Victoria are instead being delivered in Glasgow, courtesy of Jacinta Allan.”
“This is more than just a lost sporting event – it’s the loss of community infrastructure, much-needed housing, and long-term economic opportunities for Victorians.
“There has been confusion and upset over the promised legacy projects in Bendigo.
“What should have been a showcase event for Bendigo and central Victoria is now a big bill, with the Games to go on in Glasgow not here.”
Ms Broad said, “It’s another reminder that Labor cannot manage money and cannot manage projects.”
“Under the Allan Labor Government state net debt continues to climb to $194 billion, with interest repayments of nearly $29 million every single day.”
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764
