The Premier Jacinta Allan has been implicated in the financial mismanagement of the cancelled 2026 Commonwealth Games, according to a damning report released today by the Victorian Auditor General.
The shock cancellation of the Games was a major blow to Bendigo, which had been promised key sporting events, new infrastructure and ongoing legacy projects.
The report found the Labor Government’s claim the Games would cost $6.9 billion was ‘overstated and not transparent’ and double counted costs.
The Nationals Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad said the Premier, who is also the local member for Bendigo East, failed to deliver the Commonwealth Games and what was promised to the region in the lead up to the 2022 state election.
Ms Broad said, “The Auditor General’s Report found the Government knew the costings were wrong but took no action to address them.”
“The Commonwealth Games was promoted as a way to showcase regional Victoria, and the abrupt cancellation was a massive blow to local businesses, tourism operators and sporting groups” Ms Broad said.
The Commonwealth Games inquiry held public hearings in Bendigo recently, further highlighting the damage done to the local community.
“The Bendigo Cycling Club highlighted the critical pathway that the Commonwealth Games provides for athletes to perform at an elite level, that was scrapped with the cancellation of the Games.
“Local businesses, hotels, and tourism operators, including the Moteliers Association, were looking forward to an influx of visitors and anticipated revenue.
“All of these hopes have been dashed.
“There is no sign of any of the legacy projects promised for Bendigo, and despite asking for further details the Government has remained silent.
“The Auditor General’s report found the total cost of cancelling the Games would be almost $600 million.
“Labor can’t manage money, and regional Victorians are paying the price.”
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au